Citroën has entered the SUV fray of the 21st century and is putting its heat on the competition with the release of the new second-generation C5 Aircross, boasting of a radical style, a range of the laté powertrains and cutting-edge comfort. The French manufacturer’s flagship takes very few liberties from the stunning concept vehicle revealed last year, and breathes life into a vision that combines striking style with real-world innovation.
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Designed by Evolution Can Happen for a Reason
The 2025 C5 Aircross is a strong evidence of Citroën’s willingness to stand out with its design, while still staying true to its purpose. This new design language is an extension of what we have seen with its European counterparts, the C3, eC3, and C3 Aircross, and the images show that it gets minimum yet expressive elements; a tidy lighting signature; and a boxy stance. The production C5 Aircross carries over many of the concept’s startling details, which is a rarity in concept-to-production terms.
At 4,652mm long, some 150mm or larger than the previous model, the new version uses this extra length to enhance passenger accommodation. Wheelbase is up 60mm, the lion’s share of which delivers better rear legroom. This dimensional step-up, says Citroën, is in response to the fact that use of space and not simply increases in size is what provides real customer value.
The profile of the car shows a braod design intent: the square looking body cladding offers an affirmation of the car’s SUV personality, while the colourful and light-filled LED taillights are an at-night badge of recognition. These elements are not simply cosmetic flourishes, but rather serve the aerodynamic efficiency of the vehicle — which is critical for getting as much as possible out of the range that comes from the combined powertrain.
The ‘C-Zen Lounge’ Experience
Inside, Citroën has reimagined how an automotive interior should look. Inside, Citroën says the cabin has a “comfort-class feel” with huge amounts of room for passengers in the second row and a large boot no matter what powertrain you choose. The C-Zen claims the “lounge” interior layout: these are not occupants who sit – they are invited to a living room-style environment by the French manufacturer.
The dash contains cushion foam covered by fabric with resemblance that of home furniture in two color schemes: either light or dark. The single innovative approach is evident in seating too, with Advanced Comfort seats adding extra thick padding in the lower part of the backrest, as well as at the top – to envelop occupants in a way that has never been done before.
Occupying prime position on the center console is what Citroën brags is the largest touchscreen yet featured in a Stellantis car. The high-mounted portrait-oriented color display takes command, cascading into the center console to create a distinctive structure with form and function in perfect harmony. It provides customizable widgets that can be arranged and resized as desired, and give control exactly where it is needed and at the driver’s fingertips.
Rear occupants are not to feel left out, with backrest recline angles of between 21 and 33 degrees – something more commonly associated with luxury cars. With 51mm and 68mm more knee and head room respectively compared to the outgoing model, the second row fulfils Citroën’s assertion that if you’re in the back of one of these, it’s ”comfort class” travel.
Powertrain Revolution
The 2025 C5 Aircross is Citroën’s commitment to electrification, but one that accepts that not all customers live with the same requirements. The C5 Aircross now includes, for the first time, a plug in Hybrid vehicle, with an all electric range. There is an electric version that’s offered in two options: Standard Range, with a 73kWh battery providing 520km of range, and Extended Range, equipped with a 97kWh battery that allows a stonking range of 679km between juice-ups.
There’s no engine up front in either electric guise; both are front-wheel drive, producing 207 or 227 horsepower, depending on configuration. Charging is also very impressive, capable of refilling 20-80 per cent in 27 minutes using a 160kW DC fast-charger.
For those not quite ready to take the plunge into full electric, there are two hybrids on offer from Citroën, a mild hybrid consisting of a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine and a 0.93kWh battery, and a plug-in hybrid that does away with the funky C3’s jesting side, pairing a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a burly 21kWh battery. The pair produce a total output of 193hp and a pure electric range of up to 85km – just enough for most daily commutes without using a drop of petrol to power things.
All powertrains are derived from the new STLA Medium architecture from parent company Stellantis. It’s all been built from the ground up to work with various propulsion systems and there’s no impact upon either passenger space or cargo carrying, which stands at a healthy 651 liters irrespective of the power it’s driven by.
Technological Integration
The use of tech isn’t limited to the powertrain, the new C5 Aircross get you connected the day to day way. Over the air updates for the infotainment system will help it stay up to date during a long life for the car. In car tech, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration is standard, and the optional 30% larger heads-up display pops important info onto the windscreen.
It supports voice command operations, with ChatGPT integrated, so the driver can talk naturally with the vehicle’s systems. At the same time, driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistance and automated emergency braking further help improve safety without intruding.
Market Positioning and Availability.
One popular car way is by choosing the C5 Aircross size at the top of the Citroën range offering of value-price Premium Mid-Size SUVs. It features all the bells and whistles of a luxury car, without forgetting that Citroën has a knack for making practical cars that people actually want.
By contrast, European deliveries are set to commence in the second half of 2025 and, potentially, for less than rival cars given the extensive standard feature set. And this approach shows that Citroën understands that luxury isn’t just a matter of price — it’s about consideration, and how small touches can add to the experience of owning such a car.
More than a new model, the 2025 Citroën C5 Aircross is an expression of the brand’s vision for comfortable, efficient, and unique mobility. By committing to electrification while offering hybrid solutions, Citroën recognises that many of us are seemingly stuck in a transition period. With intelligent, distinctive design, true innovation and passion for the comfort of passengers, the new C5 Aircross is a convincing example of putting character ahead of cliché, even when you’re shopping for an SUV.
