The Citroen C5 Aircross 1.5 BlueHDi 131 Automatic S&S represents a significant offering within the first generation (Phase I) of Citroen’s popular SUV, produced from 2018 to February 2022. Positioned as a mid-range variant, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with acceptable performance and convenience, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable and practical family vehicle. This model is built on the EMP2 platform, shared with other PSA Group vehicles like the Peugeot 3008 and DS 7 Crossback, and was primarily marketed in Europe. The “S&S” designation indicates the inclusion of Citroen’s Start & Stop system, designed to improve fuel economy in urban driving conditions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C5 Aircross |
| Generation | C5 Aircross I (Phase I, 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 BlueHDi (131 Hp) Automatic S&S |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | February, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8-3.9 l/100 km (61.9 – 60.3 US mpg, 74.3 – 72.4 UK mpg, 26.3 – 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.0-4.1 l/100 km (58.8 – 57.4 US mpg, 70.6 – 68.9 UK mpg, 25 – 24.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 106 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 189 km/h (117.44 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp, 91.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 209.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 131 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | YHZ DV5RC |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.8 mm (3.34 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2020 kg (4453.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 590 kg (1300.73 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%) | 1250 kg (2755.78 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R17; 235/55 R18; 205/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The C5 Aircross 1.5 BlueHDi utilizes the DV5RC engine code, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of the BlueHDi family, incorporating a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system to meet stringent Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards. The engine employs a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. Fuel is delivered via a common rail direct injection system, operating at very high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine features four valves per cylinder and a timing belt. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, was chosen for its smooth operation and efficiency. It features a torque converter and provides a wide range of gear ratios to optimize fuel economy and performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 131 horsepower and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque offered by this engine and transmission combination provide adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 10.6 seconds. The automatic transmission is tuned for comfort and fuel efficiency, resulting in relatively smooth gear changes. Compared to the more powerful 180 horsepower BlueHDi variants, this version feels noticeably slower, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the lower power output also contributes to improved fuel economy. The gear ratios are optimized for cruising, making it a comfortable long-distance vehicle. The automatic transmission does lack the responsiveness of a manual gearbox, and doesn’t offer any manual shift modes.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The “S&S” trim level typically included features such as air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Standard interior upholstery was cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Higher trim levels added features like panoramic sunroof, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking, and upgraded audio systems. The C5 Aircross is known for its comfortable seats and spacious interior, offering ample room for passengers and luggage. The rear seats are adjustable for recline and fore/aft movement, enhancing versatility.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 Aircross features a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup prioritizes ride comfort, and is further enhanced by Citroen’s Progressive Hydraulic Cushions – a unique suspension system designed to absorb bumps and provide a smoother ride. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The steering is electric power-assisted, providing light and easy steering feel. The suspension is tuned for comfort, resulting in a noticeable amount of body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C5 Aircross 1.5 BlueHDi Automatic S&S was generally well-received by automotive critics for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked outright power, particularly when fully loaded. Compared to the more powerful BlueHDi variants, this version offered a more affordable entry point into the C5 Aircross range. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures averaging around 4.0-4.1 l/100 km (58.8-57.4 US mpg). Reliability has been generally good, although some owners have reported issues with the DPF system, a common concern with modern diesel engines.
Legacy
The Citroen C5 Aircross 1.5 BlueHDi Automatic S&S remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a comfortable and fuel-efficient family SUV. The 1.5 BlueHDi engine has proven to be relatively reliable, although regular maintenance, including DPF regeneration, is essential. The eight-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good durability. While not the most exciting vehicle to drive, the C5 Aircross 1.5 BlueHDi offers a compelling combination of practicality, comfort, and affordability, making it a sensible choice for many buyers.
