The Citroën C5 X 1.6 PureTech Automatic, produced from January 2022 to October 2022, represents a unique offering within the C5 X range. Positioned as a mid-range trim, it blended the comfort and practicality expected of a Citroën with a more performance-oriented engine than the base models. The C5 X itself is a distinctive vehicle, marketed as a crossover blending elements of a traditional saloon, an estate car, and an SUV. It’s built on the EMP2 platform, shared with other Stellantis vehicles like the Peugeot 3008 and Opel Grandland. This variant aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a balance between fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and a comfortable driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C5 X |
| Generation | C5 X |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 PureTech (181 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | January, 2022 |
| End of production | October, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate), Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 8.5-8.6 l/100 km (27.7 – 27.4 US mpg, 33.2 – 32.8 UK mpg, 11.8 – 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 6.6-6.7 l/100 km (35.6 – 35.1 US mpg, 42.8 – 42.2 UK mpg, 15.2 – 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 5.6-5.7 l/100 km (42 – 41.3 US mpg, 50.4 – 49.6 UK mpg, 17.9 – 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.5-6.6 l/100 km (36.2 – 35.6 US mpg, 43.5 – 42.8 UK mpg, 15.4 – 15.2 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.5-6.6 l/100 km (36.2 – 35.6 US mpg, 43.5 – 42.8 UK mpg, 15.4 – 15.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 147-149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 123.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 204.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 181 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 113.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1900 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5G06 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1467-1514 kg (3234.18 – 3337.8 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 416-463 kg (917.12 – 1020.74 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 545 l (19.25 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 85 kg (187.39 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 70 kg (154.32 lbs.) |
| Length | 4805 mm (189.17 in.) |
| Width | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1865 mm (73.43 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2062 mm (81.18 in.) |
| Height | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2785 mm (109.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1595-1600 mm (62.8 – 62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1600-1605 mm (62.99 – 63.19 in.) |
| Front overhang | 985 mm (38.78 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1035 mm (40.75 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| 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 | 205/55 R19 97V |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The C5 X 1.6 PureTech utilizes the EP6 CDT engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine, part of Stellantis’s PureTech family, is known for its combination of direct fuel injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger. The engine code 5G06 identifies this specific iteration. Direct injection allows for precise fuel delivery, improving efficiency and reducing emissions. The turbocharger provides increased power output without significantly increasing engine size. The engine produces 181 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at 1900 rpm. This torque figure is readily available at relatively low engine speeds, contributing to good everyday drivability. The engine is paired with an Aisin-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and responsiveness, and it contributes to the overall refinement of the C5 X.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 PureTech Automatic offers a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not a sports-oriented vehicle, the engine provides adequate power for most driving situations. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 8.4 seconds, and the car has a top speed of 143 mph. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine, providing smooth gear changes and helping to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 1.6 PureTech 225 hp version, this 181 hp variant feels less urgent in acceleration, but it offers better fuel economy. The automatic transmission, while convenient, doesn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as a manual gearbox. The C5 X’s suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road well, providing a smooth ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C5 X 1.6 PureTech Automatic typically came equipped with a generous amount of standard features. These included a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, automatic climate control, rear parking sensors, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth in the base trims, with leather options available as upgrades. The dashboard layout was modern and minimalist, with a focus on ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 X utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic stability control. The C5 X’s chassis is designed to provide a comfortable and stable ride, even on uneven surfaces. The steering is electric power-assisted, providing a light and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën C5 X received mixed reviews from critics. While praised for its unique styling, comfortable ride, and spacious interior, some reviewers found the engine performance to be somewhat underwhelming, particularly in the 181 hp variant. Fuel economy was generally considered to be good, but not class-leading. Compared to other vehicles in its segment, such as the Peugeot 508 and the Skoda Superb, the C5 X offered a distinctive alternative with its crossover styling and focus on comfort. The 1.6 PureTech Automatic was positioned as a sensible choice for buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and a relaxed driving experience over outright performance.
Legacy
The Citroën C5 X, while a relatively short-lived model, represents an interesting experiment in automotive design. The 1.6 PureTech engine, in its various iterations, has proven to be generally reliable, although some owners have reported issues with the timing chain. The Aisin 8-speed automatic transmission is also considered to be a robust and dependable unit. On the used car market, the C5 X 1.6 PureTech Automatic offers a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a comfortable, spacious, and well-equipped vehicle with a unique design. Its long-term reliability will depend on proper maintenance and driving habits, but the core powertrain components are generally considered to be durable.
