The Citroen C5 Aircross, launched in late 2017 for the 2018 model year, represented a significant step for Citroen into the increasingly popular compact SUV segment. The 2.0 BlueHDi 178 Automatic S&S variant, produced through November 2020, occupied a mid-range position within the C5 Aircross lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and comfort. This model was primarily aimed at the European market, where diesel engines remained highly popular due to their fuel economy and torque characteristics. It was positioned above the entry-level petrol options and below the more powerful diesel trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C5 Aircross |
| Generation | C5 Aircross I (Phase I, 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 BlueHDi (178 Hp) Automatic S&S |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | November, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.2-5.3 l/100 km (45.2 – 44.4 US mpg, 54.3 – 53.3 UK mpg, 19.2 – 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5-4.6 l/100 km (52.3 – 51.1 US mpg, 62.8 – 61.4 UK mpg, 22.2 – 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7-4.9 l/100 km (50 – 48 US mpg, 60.1 – 57.6 UK mpg, 21.3 – 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 124 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 211 km/h (131.11 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.7 kg/Hp, 115.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 259.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 178 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 2000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EHZ DW10FC |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 580 l (20.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1630 l (57.56 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 17 l (4.49 US gal | 3.74 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4500 mm (177.17 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1969 mm (77.52 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2099 mm (82.64 in.) |
| Height | 1689 mm (66.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2730 mm (107.48 in.) |
| Front track | 1579-1601 mm (62.17 – 63.03 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1608-1630 mm (63.31 – 64.17 in.) |
| Front overhang | 917 mm (36.1 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 853 mm (33.58 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 230 mm (9.06 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| 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 | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C5 Aircross variant is the DW10FC engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine falls under Citroen’s “BlueHDi” designation, signifying its advanced emissions control technology. The EHZ engine code specifically denotes a version tuned to produce 178 horsepower at 3750 rpm and a substantial 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance and efficiency. The engine also incorporates a particulate filter to reduce soot emissions, complying with stringent Euro 6d-TEMP emission standards. Paired with the engine is an Aisin-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission. This transmission was chosen for its smooth operation and efficiency, offering a wide range of gear ratios to optimize fuel economy and performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 BlueHDi 178 Automatic delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. The ample torque available from low engine speeds provides strong acceleration in everyday driving situations. While not a sports-oriented SUV, the 8.6-second 0-62 mph acceleration time is respectable. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and responsively, although it may occasionally exhibit some hesitation during quick downshifts. Compared to the more powerful diesel variants, this version feels less urgent, but it offers a more relaxed and fuel-efficient driving experience. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for economy, meaning the engine doesn’t rev as high as it would in a manual version, prioritizing fuel consumption over outright performance. The C5 Aircross’s signature suspension, featuring Progressive Hydraulic Cushions, contributes to a remarkably comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The “S&S” designation indicates the inclusion of Citroen’s Start & Stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary to save fuel. Standard equipment on this trim level typically included features such as air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and automatic headlights and wipers. Higher trim levels offered additional features like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a more advanced infotainment system with navigation, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery was typically a cloth material, with options for partial leather or full leather available as upgrades.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 Aircross features a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension utilizes an independent McPherson strut setup, while the rear suspension employs a semi-independent torsion beam configuration. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, ensuring safe and controlled braking in emergency situations. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C5 Aircross 2.0 BlueHDi 178 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel a bit underpowered when fully loaded or tackling steep hills. Compared to the 1.6 BlueHDi variant, the 2.0-liter engine offered noticeably more performance. Against competitors like the Peugeot 3008 and Nissan Qashqai, the C5 Aircross stood out with its unique styling and focus on comfort. Fuel economy figures of 4.7-4.9 l/100km were competitive within its class.
Legacy
The 2.0 BlueHDi engine, in various iterations, has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. However, like all modern diesel engines, it’s important to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes and diesel particulate filter regeneration. On the used car market, the C5 Aircross 2.0 BlueHDi 178 Automatic represents a good value proposition, offering a comfortable and practical SUV with reasonable running costs. The Aisin automatic transmission is generally considered to be robust and reliable. Potential buyers should check for evidence of regular maintenance and ensure the AdBlue tank is properly filled.
