The Citroen C5 Aircross I (Phase II), specifically the 1.5 BlueHDi 131 horsepower automatic variant, represents a significant iteration of Citroen’s popular SUV, launched in February 2022 and continuing through July 2025. This model falls within the first generation of the C5 Aircross (internally designated as the B71 series), benefiting from a mid-life refresh that brought styling updates and technological enhancements. Positioned as a mid-range offering, the 1.5 BlueHDi automatic aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and comfort for family buyers in the European market. It served as a key alternative to petrol-powered versions and higher-output diesel trims within the C5 Aircross lineup.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C5 Aircross |
| Generation | C5 Aircross I (Phase II, 2022) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 BlueHDi (131 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | February, 2022 |
| End of production | July, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 5.8-5.9 l/100 km (40.6 – 39.9 US mpg, 48.7 – 47.9 UK mpg, 17.2 – 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 5-5.1 l/100 km (47 – 46.1 US mpg, 56.5 – 55.4 UK mpg, 20 – 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 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 at very high speed (WLTP) | 5.7-5.8 l/100 km (41.3 – 40.6 US mpg, 49.6 – 48.7 UK mpg, 17.5 – 17.2 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 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) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 136-139 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 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp, 88 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 201.5 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 | 1489 kg (3282.68 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2030 kg (4475.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 541 kg (1192.7 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 | 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 |
| 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 PSA Group’s (now Stellantis) 1.5 BlueHDi four-cylinder diesel engine, specifically the YH01 code. This engine is a modern diesel, featuring a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. It utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine produces 131 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1750 rpm, providing good low-end responsiveness. The engine also incorporates a particulate filter to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 6d standards. Paired with this engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission (typically an Aisin-sourced unit), chosen for its smooth operation and contribution to fuel economy. This transmission offers a wide range of gear ratios, allowing the engine to operate efficiently across various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 BlueHDi automatic C5 Aircross delivers a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly, and the readily available torque makes overtaking relatively effortless. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 BlueHDi variants, this version feels less urgent in acceleration, taking approximately 10.6 seconds to reach 62 mph. However, the trade-off is significantly improved fuel economy. The C5 Aircross’s signature suspension, featuring Progressive Hydraulic Cushions, contributes to a remarkably smooth ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 BlueHDi 131 Automatic typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, automatic climate control, rear parking sensors, and a suite of safety features such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Higher trim levels offered additional features like a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a more advanced infotainment system with navigation. The interior design emphasized comfort and practicality, with a spacious cabin and ample storage compartments. Upholstery options generally included cloth or a combination of cloth and synthetic leather.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 Aircross utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup prioritizes ride comfort and stability. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, but it also offers reasonable handling characteristics. The C5 Aircross’s relatively high ground clearance (230mm) makes it suitable for tackling rough roads and uneven surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 BlueHDi automatic variant of the C5 Aircross was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of the more powerful diesel options. Compared to the 2.0 BlueHDi, the 1.5 offered lower running costs but less performance. Against petrol-powered rivals, the 1.5 BlueHDi provided superior fuel economy and torque. The C5 Aircross competed with other popular European SUVs such as the Peugeot 3008, Nissan Qashqai, and Hyundai Tucson.
Legacy
The 1.5 BlueHDi engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While diesel engines, in general, have faced increased scrutiny in recent years, this particular engine has a good reputation for longevity, provided it is properly maintained. In the used car market, the C5 Aircross 1.5 BlueHDi automatic represents a sensible choice for buyers seeking a comfortable, practical, and fuel-efficient SUV. Regular servicing, including oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial to ensure the continued reliability of this powertrain. The C5 Aircross, with its unique suspension and spacious interior, continues to be a popular option for families and individuals seeking a comfortable and versatile vehicle.
