The Citroen C5 II Tourer, specifically the Phase II model produced between 2012 and 2015, represented a significant evolution of Citroen’s large family car. This variant, equipped with the 1.6 THP (Turbo High Pressure) 156 horsepower gasoline engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, occupied a middle ground within the C5 Tourer lineup. Positioned above the lower-powered diesel options and below the flagship models, it aimed to provide a balance of performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency for buyers seeking a refined estate car experience. The C5 II Tourer, built on the PSA Group’s Platform 2 (also known as the 1HX0 platform shared with Peugeot), was designed to compete with vehicles like the Ford Mondeo Estate, Volkswagen Passat Variant, and Skoda Superb Estate in the European market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C5 |
| Generation | C5 II Tourer (Phase II, 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 THP (156 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 169 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp, 101.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm, 156.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 97.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1400 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FV EP6DT |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1534 kg (3381.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 666 kg (1468.28 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 505 l (17.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1462 l (51.63 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 71 l (18.76 US gal | 15.62 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1790 kg (3946.27 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4829 mm (190.12 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2096 mm (82.52 in.) |
| Height | 1483-1479 mm (58.39 – 58.23 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2815 mm (110.83 in.) |
| Front track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1054 mm (41.5 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 960 mm (37.8 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C5 Tourer variant is the 5FV EP6DT 1.6 THP engine. This is a four-cylinder, inline gasoline engine featuring direct fuel injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger. The ‘THP’ designation signifies Turbo High Pressure, highlighting the engine’s forced induction system. The engine utilizes a timing chain for durability and a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain to optimize gas flow. The 1.6L engine produces 156 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1400 rpm, providing a broad torque curve suitable for comfortable cruising and overtaking. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth gear changes and contributing to ease of driving. This transmission isn’t known for being particularly sporty, prioritizing comfort and fuel efficiency over rapid shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 THP automatic C5 Tourer delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented model, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 9.7 seconds, and the top speed is 130.49 mph. The automatic transmission, while smooth, can feel somewhat hesitant during quick acceleration or when attempting to downshift for overtaking. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy, meaning the engine can sometimes feel strained when climbing hills or carrying a full load. Compared to the more powerful 2.0L HDi diesel variants, the 1.6 THP offers less torque and a slightly slower response. However, it provides a quieter and smoother driving experience than the diesel, and avoids the particulate filter issues sometimes associated with diesel engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 THP automatic trim typically included features such as air conditioning, a CD/radio system with auxiliary input, electric windows, electric mirrors, and central locking. Higher trim levels, such as Exclusive, added features like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and parking sensors. Safety features included ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. The interior design of the Phase II C5 Tourer was generally well-regarded for its comfort and build quality, although some materials felt less premium than those found in German competitors.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 II Tourer features independent multi-link suspension on both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride quality. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, making it well-suited for long journeys. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations. The steering is electrically assisted, offering a light and easy steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 THP automatic C5 Tourer was generally well-received by critics as a comfortable and practical family car. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or driving on steep inclines. Fuel economy was considered reasonable, averaging around 32.2 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.6 THP offered lower running costs in terms of fuel, but potentially higher maintenance costs due to the complexity of the turbocharger and direct injection system. The petrol engine was also seen as a more appealing option for drivers who primarily cover shorter distances, where diesel engines may not reach optimal operating temperatures.
Legacy
The 1.6 THP engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with carbon buildup on the intake valves, particularly in vehicles that primarily undertake short journeys. Regular servicing and the use of quality fuel can help mitigate this issue. The automatic transmission, while smooth, is not known for its exceptional durability and may require attention at higher mileages. Today, the C5 II Tourer 1.6 THP automatic represents a relatively affordable and spacious estate car option on the used market. Its comfortable ride, practical interior, and reasonable fuel economy make it a suitable choice for families and drivers seeking a refined and reliable vehicle.
