I wanted more time with this one, but no sooner than it was delivered came the call that it would be collected the next morning because Mzansi was going into lockdown.
Why did I want extra time with the C5? Well, three reasons; firstly, I really like Citroëns and was saddened to hear of its demise in SA. Subsequently, I was thrilled to hear of its return. Secondly, I was a big fan of the Cactus when it launched, a lightweight, simple yet great to look at compact SUV. But, thirdly, and this is the one that counts, is the fact that it’s a C5.
About 8 years ago I had the privilege of being custodian to a Citroën C5 saloon for a full year. I loved that car, its soft suspension, its stately looks – naturally, I road tripped it everywhere. My fondness then for the badge extends to the panoramic views of South Africa, the sinewy roads and glorious vistas that span between our towns and cities.
Tactile, pleasant, feature laden? Check, check, check
So, with just one day’s worth of motoring, I did my best to experience the new car. Obviously the Aircross is more Cactus than C5 sedan, with heaped spoonfuls of quirkiness punctuated with stylish and ornate details. It drives well with sufficient shunt from its turbo’d 1.6l, with a cushy ride quality. It’s an automatic so you can leave the shifting to the Aircross’ electric brain to sort out.
The cabin is tactile and pleasant, feature and connectivity-laden and while this is more of a first (and last for now) drive than a road test, I can tell you with great confidence that this is definitely the kind of car I’d like to drive when the world resumes.
Citroën C5 Aircross 1.6T Shine Specs:
| Price | R514,900.00 |
| Engine | 1.6l turbocharged petrol |
| Power | 121kW |
| Torque | 240Nm |
| Gearbox | 6 speed automatic |
| Driven Wheels | Front |
| 0-100kph | 10.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 189kph |
| Average Fuel Consumption | 7.9l/100km |
| CO2 Emissions | 179g/km |
Price includes 5-year/100 000km warranty and a 5-year/100 000km service plan
