The last Paris Motor Show marked an important milestone for Citroën with the presentation of the concept of the future C5 Aircross. A presentation that aroused great interest and raised questions about the evolution of the brand's large SUV, whose second generation heralds stylistic and technological changes for the model.
A concept close to production: confirmed lines
The concept presented by Citroën is very similar to the expected production version, since, according to the brand's managers, it will be 90 to 95% close to the production model. We can therefore anticipate the main lines of the future C5 Aircross with, as notable developments, an extension of the body to 4m65, which should result in increased interior space, a significant advantage for a family car. This extension positions it between the current Peugeot 3008 and 5008, as well as the new Opel Grandland, all of which share the STLA Medium platform of the Stellantis group. The style, especially the rear, is a distinctive element with a design that should differentiate the new C5 Aircross from its competitors, with more assertive lines and a recognisable lighting signature. We can also expect an evolution of the front end, which will incorporate the new Citroën aesthetic codes with a redesigned grille and optics and the integration of the new brand logo.
Special features: evolving technology and design
A look at the details suggests that the production version will retain the essence of the concept. Minor changes are likely, particularly to the door handles, which will adopt a more conventional design for practical and economic reasons, and to the window frames. The Citroën Light Wings rear lights will be retained, providing a distinctive light signature and aerodynamic optimisation. This lighting signature, combined with the work on the body lines, should contribute to better energy efficiency. On the technical side, the future C5 Aircross will be based on the STLA Medium platform, a modern and versatile technical base shared with other models in the Stellantis group. This platform allows the integration of electric, hybrid and thermal engines, thus offering a wider range of engines to meet the different needs of customers. Electric motors of at least 210 hp are mentioned, with a range of almost 700 km, which would position the C5 Aircross as a major player in the electric SUV market. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions are also planned, probably using engines similar to those of the Peugeot 3008, with improvements in terms of range and efficiency. In particular, there is talk of a 1.6-litre engine combined with a 17.8 kWh battery for a power output of around 195 bhp and an electric range of around 80 km. The question of four-wheel drive remains unanswered, but it could be offered on certain versions.
The interior should also see significant changes, with a redesigned dashboard incorporating the latest infotainment and driver assistance technologies. We can expect a larger and probably vertically positioned central touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster and premium materials, with fabrics taking centre stage. The emphasis will be on comfort, with Citroën's signature Advanced Comfort suspension and seats being offered as standard. The livability and modularity of the current C5 Aircross should be maintained or even improved thanks to the lengthening of the vehicle, although it is very likely that the three independent rear seats will be replaced by a bench seat.
In conclusion, if the presentation of the future C5 Aircross is planned for the end of the first half of 2025, the concept presented at the Paris Motor Show gives a precise overview of the next generation. In spite of the lack of information on the details of the interior and the full range of engines, it seems that Citroën intends to offer a C5 Aircross that is renewed in terms of aesthetics and technology, in line with the expectations of the market. The wait is over and observers are eagerly awaiting the development of this model, which must confirm the brand's ambitions in the compact SUV segment.
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