The Citroen C5 Aircross, launched in September 2017, represented a significant step for Citroen into the increasingly popular compact SUV segment. The 1.6 350THP (167 hp) Tiptronic variant, produced through February 2022, occupied a middle ground within the initial Phase I lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. This model was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a comfortable and practical SUV with a touch of French flair, and it played a key role in establishing the C5 Aircross as a contender in the European market. It was never officially sold in the US market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C5 Aircross |
| Generation | C5 Aircross I (Phase I, 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 350THP (167 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) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp, 112.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 164.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 167 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 104.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 245 Nm @ 1400-4000 rpm (180.7 lb.-ft. @ 1400-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5GY EP6FDTM |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1490 kg (3284.89 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.) |
| 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 | 215/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the C5 Aircross 1.6 350THP is the 5GY EP6FDTM engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder petrol engine developed as part of the Prince engine family, a collaboration between PSA Group (Peugeot Société Anonyme, Citroen’s parent company) and BMW. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection, optimizing combustion efficiency and power output. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides increased air density for improved performance. The engine also features continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) on both intake and exhaust valves, further enhancing efficiency and responsiveness. The ‘THP’ designation signifies Turbo High Pressure, indicating the use of a twin-scroll turbocharger. This engine produces 167 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 245 Nm (180.7 lb-ft) of torque available from a low 1400 rpm, providing good drivability. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission marketed as ‘Tiptronic’, offering both fully automatic operation and the ability for the driver to manually select gears.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 350THP Tiptronic variant of the C5 Aircross delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The automatic transmission is generally smooth in its shifts, although it can occasionally feel hesitant during quick acceleration. Compared to the more economical diesel variants, the 1.6 THP offers a more responsive feel, particularly at higher engine speeds. However, it lacks the low-end torque of the diesel engines. Against higher-powered petrol versions, the 167 hp engine feels less energetic, especially when fully loaded. The Tiptronic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright performance, resulting in a more relaxed driving style.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C5 Aircross 1.6 350THP Tiptronic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Higher trim levels added features such as a panoramic sunroof, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking, and upgraded audio systems. The dashboard layout was modern and functional, with a focus on ergonomics. Optional extras included a hands-free power tailgate, and a more sophisticated navigation system.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 Aircross utilizes a front-wheel-drive configuration. The front suspension employs an independent McPherson strut setup, providing a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The rear suspension is a semi-independent coil spring arrangement, balancing cost-effectiveness with acceptable ride quality. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The suspension tuning prioritizes comfort, with a focus on absorbing bumps and providing a smooth ride. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering, though the C5 Aircross is not designed to be a particularly sporty vehicle.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C5 Aircross 1.6 350THP Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and distinctive styling. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could be slow to respond at times, and the engine, while adequate, wasn’t particularly exciting. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.6 THP offered lower fuel economy but a more refined driving experience. The petrol engine was often seen as a good compromise for drivers who didn’t cover high annual mileages and preferred the responsiveness of a petrol engine. Reliability reports suggest that the 1.6 THP engine is generally reliable, although some owners have reported issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors.
Legacy
The Citroen C5 Aircross 1.6 350THP Tiptronic remains a relatively common sight on the used car market. Its blend of comfort, practicality, and distinctive styling continues to appeal to buyers. The 1.6 THP engine, while not without its potential issues, has proven to be reasonably durable when properly maintained. The C5 Aircross helped to establish Citroen as a serious player in the competitive compact SUV segment, and the 1.6 350THP variant played a significant role in attracting customers who sought a comfortable and well-equipped family vehicle. Its continued presence in the used car market reflects its overall appeal and value proposition.
