The Citroen C5 Aircross I (Phase II), specifically the 1.5 BlueHDi variant producing 131 horsepower, was a key model in Citroen’s lineup from February 2022 to April 2024. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the C5 Aircross range, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with practicality for family buyers. This iteration falls within the first generation of the C5 Aircross (introduced in 2017), benefitting from the Phase II refresh which included styling updates and technological enhancements. The C5 Aircross, as a whole, represented Citroen’s attempt to gain a stronger foothold in the competitive European and international SUV market, emphasizing comfort and distinctive design.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C5 Aircross |
| Generation | C5 Aircross I (Phase II, 2022) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 BlueHDi (131 Hp) |
| Start of production | February, 2022 |
| End of production | April, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 5.1-5.2 l/100 km (46.1 – 45.2 US mpg, 55.4 – 54.3 UK mpg, 19.6 – 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 4.7-4.8 l/100 km (50 – 49 US mpg, 60.1 – 58.9 UK mpg, 21.3 – 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 4.3-4.4 l/100 km (54.7 – 53.5 US mpg, 65.7 – 64.2 UK mpg, 23.3 – 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 5.5-5.6 l/100 km (42.8 – 42 US mpg, 51.4 – 50.4 UK mpg, 18.2 – 17.9 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 4.9-5 l/100 km (48 – 47 US mpg, 57.6 – 56.5 UK mpg, 20.4 – 20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 129-132 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 189 km/h (117.44 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp, 92.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 211.3 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 | YH01 |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 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 | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 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%) | 1450 kg (3196.7 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4500 mm (177.17 in.) |
| Width | 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 | 6 gears, manual 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 |
| Tires size | 225/55 R18; 205/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C5 Aircross variant is the 1.5 BlueHDi engine, part of Citroen’s (and the wider Stellantis group’s) modular engine family. The YH01 engine code designates this specific iteration. It’s a four-cylinder, inline diesel engine displacing 1499cc. A key feature is its turbocharger with an intercooler, which helps to boost power and efficiency. The engine utilizes a Diesel Commonrail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the cylinders at high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine produces 131 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. This torque figure is particularly noteworthy for a diesel of this size, providing good low-end responsiveness. The engine also incorporates a particulate filter to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 6d standards. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, sending power to the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 BlueHDi 131 hp version of the C5 Aircross offers a comfortable and practical driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 9.9 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 10.4 seconds, making it adequate for everyday driving but not particularly sporty. The engine’s torque delivery is strong from low revs, making it easy to navigate urban environments and providing sufficient power for overtaking on highways. Compared to higher-powered versions of the C5 Aircross, such as those with the 180 hp diesel, this variant feels less eager to accelerate. The 6-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine, offering smooth gear changes. The C5 Aircross’s signature suspension, with its progressive hydraulic cushions, contributes to a remarkably comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 BlueHDi 131 hp trim typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment. This included features like air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and speed limit recognition. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgrading to leather. Higher trim levels within the C5 Aircross range offered additional features such as a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a more advanced infotainment system. The specific trim level (e.g., Sense, Feel, Shine) determined the extent of these optional extras.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 Aircross utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup prioritizes ride comfort, as mentioned previously. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The C5 Aircross’s suspension is tuned to provide a smooth and controlled ride, even on uneven surfaces. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 BlueHDi 131 hp variant of the C5 Aircross was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and distinctive styling. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or when tackling steep hills. Compared to the more powerful diesel variants, this version offered better fuel economy but at the expense of performance. Against competitors like the Peugeot 3008 and Nissan Qashqai, the C5 Aircross stood out for its unique design and focus on comfort.
Legacy
The 1.5 BlueHDi engine has proven to be a relatively reliable unit within the Stellantis group. While diesel engines, in general, have faced increased scrutiny regarding emissions, the BlueHDi engines with particulate filters have addressed many of these concerns. On the used car market, the C5 Aircross 1.5 BlueHDi is considered a sensible choice for buyers seeking a comfortable, practical, and fuel-efficient SUV. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is good. However, potential buyers should ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained and that the AdBlue system is functioning correctly.
