Citroën C5 Aircross: end of production in Rennes for the old generation

While the Citroën network was celebrating the official launch of the much-anticipated new C5 Aircross last weekend, another quieter yet equally symbolic event was taking place at the factory in Rennes, France. On Friday, October 3rd, the final unit of the first-generation C5 Aircross rolled off the production lines, marking the end of a significant chapter for the brand and the dawn of a new industrial era for the Brittany-based plant. This precisely orchestrated handover paves the way for a new generation that now carries the brand's ambitions in the strategic family SUV segment.

The end of an era for the first C5 Aircross, the SUV of renewal

Launched in 2018, the first Citroën C5 Aircross was more than just another vehicle; it represented a major offensive by the brand into the booming C-SUV segment. It masterfully handled the transition from the golden age of MPVs (minivans), where models like the C4 SpaceTourer were among the last iconic representatives. With its assertive personality, supreme comfort thanks to its Progressive Hydraulic Cushions suspension, and Advanced Comfort seats, it successfully established its unique vision of automotive well-being. The result was a resounding success. In just over six years, more than 560,000 units were manufactured at the Rennes-La Janais facility. This impressive volume is a testament to the model's appeal to a broad European and international customer base. This industrial achievement was also supported by the "Contrat d’Avenir pour Rennes" (A Future for Rennes Agreement), a pact signed in 2016 between management and four trade unions, with the backing of local authorities. This agreement enabled the modernization of the production facilities and secured the plant's future by entrusting it with the manufacturing of this flagship model. The final vehicle assembled on October 3rd thus closes a success story for a car that firmly re-established Citroën as a major player in the compact SUV market.

The new C5 Aircross, carrying the future of the Rennes plant

With the conclusion of its predecessor's production, the new Citroën C5 Aircross now stands as the sole vehicle manufactured in Rennes. This exclusivity places a considerable responsibility on the new model: it alone must carry the industrial future of the plant and its employees. However, the initial signs are decidedly positive and inspire great confidence. The new C5 Aircross is built on the latest generation STLA Medium multi-energy platform, enabling it to offer a comprehensive range tailored to modern market demands. The lineup includes a 100% electric version promising a class-leading range, as well as Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) and Mild-Hybrid (MHEV) powertrains, alongside internal combustion engines for non-European markets. This flexibility is a key asset for adapting to varying regulations and customer preferences worldwide. The recent press drives, held a few weeks ago, garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews, with journalists praising the significant advancements in design, onboard technology, and overall performance. This positive feedback bodes extremely well for its commercial career, which is just beginning. On our site, we will be delighted to share a detailed review of the all-electric version by October 31st. Meanwhile, the plant itself is continuing its deep transformation, focusing on decarbonizing its processes and fostering a dynamic of constant innovation to produce this new generation under the best possible conditions.

In conclusion, the handover between the two C5 Aircross generations was completed with a faster-than-expected transition, as the end of production for the first model was moved up by one week from the original schedule. This slight adjustment could be interpreted as a very encouraging sign. Faced with an enthusiastic reception and a growing order book, it may have become essential to unleash the full production potential of the Rennes plant as quickly as possible to meet the high anticipation surrounding the new C5 Aircross. Its journey is only just beginning, but it already promises to be a thrilling one.