The Citroen C5 Aircross, launched in September 2017, represented a significant step for Citroen into the increasingly popular compact SUV segment. The Phase I model, produced through February 2022, offered a range of engine and trim options. Among these, the 1.8 380THP (204 Hp) variant equipped with the Tiptronic automatic transmission occupied a mid-range position in the lineup, balancing performance with comfort and convenience. This version aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a refined driving experience without the higher price tag of the flagship models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C5 Aircross |
| Generation | C5 Aircross I (Phase I, 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 380THP (204 Hp) Tiptronic |
| Start of production | September, 2017 |
| End of production | February, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 133.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 183 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 204 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 116.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1400-4000 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1400-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1751 cm3 (106.85 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | CVVT |
| Kerb Weight | 1530 kg (3373.07 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 516 l (18.22 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1310 l (46.26 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Length | 4510 mm (177.56 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Height | 1670 mm (65.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2730 mm (107.48 in.) |
| Front track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1621 mm (63.82 in.) |
| Approach angle | 20° |
| Departure angle | 27° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Citroen C5 Aircross, introduced in 2017, was Citroen’s entry into the competitive compact SUV market. Built on the EMP2 platform (also used by Peugeot, DS Automobiles, and Vauxhall/Opel), the C5 Aircross aimed to differentiate itself through a focus on comfort, practicality, and distinctive styling. The 1.8 380THP Tiptronic variant, powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, was positioned as a strong all-rounder, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It was a key model in attracting customers who desired an automatic transmission and a respectable level of power without opting for the more expensive and performance-oriented options.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the C5 Aircross 1.8 380THP lies the EP6CDT engine, a 1.8-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, part of the Prince engine family developed jointly by PSA Group (Peugeot Société Anonyme) and BMW, features direct fuel injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger. The engine utilizes variable valve timing (CVVT) on both intake and exhaust valves to optimize performance and efficiency across the rev range. The engine’s output of 204 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque between 1400 and 4000 rpm provides a broad powerband suitable for everyday driving.
The “Tiptronic” transmission is, in reality, an Aisin-sourced six-speed automatic transmission. This gearbox offers both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to exert more control over gear selection. The transmission is known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness, contributing to a comfortable driving experience. The automatic transmission was a significant selling point for many buyers in this segment, particularly in markets where manual transmissions are less popular.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8 380THP Tiptronic C5 Aircross delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not a sports SUV, the engine provides sufficient power for confident overtaking and merging onto highways. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth gear changes and a responsive feel. The broad torque curve ensures that the engine feels flexible and willing, even at lower speeds. Compared to the base 1.2-liter PureTech engine, the 1.8 offers a noticeable performance upgrade, while remaining more economical than the higher-output options. The automatic transmission, while convenient, does slightly diminish the overall fuel economy compared to the six-speed manual version.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8 380THP Tiptronic trim typically included a generous level of standard equipment. This often encompassed features such as air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and automatic headlights. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a more advanced infotainment system with navigation, and safety features like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning. The interior design emphasized comfort and practicality, with a spacious cabin and a well-designed dashboard layout.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 Aircross features a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup prioritizes ride comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The suspension is tuned to provide a balanced ride, offering a good compromise between comfort and handling. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for everyday driving. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The C5 Aircross’s weight of around 1530 kg (3373.07 lbs) is typical for its class, and the suspension is designed to handle this weight effectively.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C5 Aircross 1.8 380THP Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and refined powertrain. However, some reviewers noted that the styling was somewhat polarizing and that the infotainment system could be slow to respond at times. Compared to rivals like the Nissan Qashqai and Peugeot 3008, the C5 Aircross offered a unique blend of comfort and practicality. Fuel economy was competitive, averaging around 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg), and reliability proved to be generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system.
Legacy
The Citroen C5 Aircross 1.8 380THP Tiptronic has established itself as a reliable and comfortable SUV in the used car market. The EP6CDT engine, while not without its occasional issues (such as potential timing chain wear), is generally considered durable when properly maintained. The Aisin automatic transmission is also known for its robustness. As a result, well-maintained examples of this variant continue to hold their value reasonably well. The C5 Aircross, in general, helped to revitalize Citroen’s image and establish the brand as a serious contender in the competitive SUV segment.
