I announced it to you a few weeks ago, now it's official: Citroën is launching the C5 Aircross with the new 136 hp puretech micro-hybrid engine. This new version, with a small battery and 48V hybrid technology, brings big savings to the brand's large SUV.
After the 180 and 225 hp rechargeable hybrid versions, Citroën is now offering a third hybrid version with the C5 Aircross, this time a non-rechargeable hybrid. Equipped with the new Stellantis 1.2 Puretech engine, which has been completely redesigned and now has a timing chain instead of a belt, the C5 Aircross delivers 136 bhp, which can be increased by the electric motor, which then develops an additional 9 kW or 12 bhp, making it possible to increase dynamics if necessary.
With this new 136 Hybrid engine, the C5 Aircross offers real savings in terms of fuel consumption, with an average saving of 1 litre, i.e. a 15% reduction compared to the Puretech 130 engine with EAT8 gearbox. The C5 Aircross is also more environmentally friendly thanks to its limited emissions of 129 g/km, i.e. a 15% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to the Puretech 130, but also a 12% reduction compared to the 130 hp 1.5 Hdi diesel engine.
Specifically, this new electric range consists of :
A new generation 1.2 PureTech petrol engine specifically designed for hybridisation (40% of parts are new), with 3 cylinders and 1199 cm3, producing 136 bhp (100 kW) at 5500 rpm and 230 Nm of torque at 1750 rpm. The choice of a variable geometry turbocharger and timing chain contributes to its performance and robustness. Complying with the Euro 6.4 standard and operating on the Miller cycle, the engine has improved thermal efficiency to reduce CO2 emissions.
A permanent magnet synchronous electric motor capable of developing peak power and torque of 21 kW (28 hp) and 55 Nm. It provides 100% electric operation of the C5 Aircross for low torque requirements, low speed, manoeuvring or deceleration, and assists the internal combustion engine when starting. It also acts as a battery charger during deceleration, limiting brake wear.
A belt starter, supplied with 48V, to start the heat engine quickly and responsively.
A new electrified 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, ë-DCS6, with no break in torque, also specifically designed for hybrid technology. Gear changes are quicker and the ride more comfortable. The electric motor, inverter and computer are integrated into the gearbox to optimise under-bonnet space.
A 48V lithium-ion battery with an available capacity of 432Wh is installed under the left front seat, without affecting the volume of the boot or the interior.
In addition, thanks to a voltage converter, part of the electricity produced by the 48V electric motor is converted into 12V to supply the car's equipment, allowing two separate electrical networks to be used.
With this new engine, the C5 Aircross offers easy access to electric power, allowing the vehicle to be driven in 100% electric mode for approximately 50% of city driving, providing a smooth, comfortable and stress-free ride. The transition between the internal combustion engine and electric motors is imperceptible, so the C5 Aircross is equipped with a revised instrument panel that brings together all the information specific to hybrid driving:
Tachometer in blue to indicate 100% electric driving,
Hybrid engine current,
Battery charge level,
Driving mode through a performance indicator (Charge, Eco, Power),
Instantaneous and average percentage of distance travelled in electric mode.
Pricing and range have not yet been announced, but could be during the month of June for first deliveries around the start of the school year after the summer.