The Citroën C5 I, launched in 2000, represented a significant step forward for the French automaker, aiming to compete directly with established mid-size family cars like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat. The first generation C5 (designated X10) offered a blend of comfort, technology, and practicality. Within the C5 range, the 2.0 HDi 110 horsepower variant, produced from 2000 to 2004, occupied a crucial position as a fuel-efficient and reasonably equipped option for buyers prioritizing economy and long-distance comfort. It was positioned as a mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the lower-powered petrol engines and the more expensive, higher-performance HDi models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C5 |
| Generation | C5 I (Phase I, 2000) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 HDi (110 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2004 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 147 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.6 kg/Hp, 79.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 180.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 55.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1750 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RHZ DW10ATED |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.7 l (11.31 US qt | 9.41 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1385 kg (3053.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1905 kg (4199.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 456 l (16.1 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 730 kg (1609.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4618 mm (181.81 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2100 mm (82.68 in.) |
| Height | 1476 mm (58.11 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1509 mm (59.41 in.) |
| Front overhang | 971 mm (38.23 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 897 mm (35.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.39 m (37.37 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 | 5 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 |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C5 variant is the DW10ATED engine, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, often referred to by its RHZ engine code, was a mainstay of the PSA Group (Peugeot-Citroën) during the early 2000s. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The turbocharger, a key component, provides a boost in power and torque, particularly at lower engine speeds. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder. The 110 horsepower output is achieved at 4000 rpm, while the peak torque of 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) is available from just 1750 rpm, emphasizing the engine’s focus on usability and low-end grunt. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel economy and drivability.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 HDi 110 hp C5 offered a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 11.9 seconds, but it wasn’t designed for outright performance. The engine’s strong low-end torque made it well-suited for overtaking and cruising on motorways. The five-speed gearbox was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, although some drivers found the shift action to be slightly vague. Compared to the more powerful 2.2 HDi variants, the 2.0 HDi felt noticeably less responsive, particularly at higher speeds. However, it offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for high-mileage drivers. The C5’s renowned hydropneumatic suspension (depending on trim level) contributed to a smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 HDi 110 hp C5 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included central locking, electric front windows, power steering, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. Air conditioning was often included, but sometimes offered as an optional extra. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Higher trim levels, such as Exclusive, added features like alloy wheels, automatic climate control, a CD stereo, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included a sunroof, leather upholstery, and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 I utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Depending on the specific trim level, some C5 models were equipped with Citroën’s innovative hydropneumatic suspension, which offered an exceptionally smooth and controlled ride. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS was standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën C5 I 2.0 HDi 110 hp was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of its rivals and that the interior design was somewhat understated. Compared to the more powerful HDi variants, the 2.0 HDi offered a more affordable entry point into the C5 range, appealing to buyers who prioritized economy over performance. Against competitors like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat, the C5 offered a unique blend of French flair and comfort, but often lagged behind in terms of brand prestige.
Legacy
The DW10ATED engine proved to be a robust and reliable unit, capable of covering high mileages with proper maintenance. The 2.0 HDi C5 remains a relatively common sight on European roads today, testament to its durability. However, like all diesel engines of this era, it’s important to be aware of potential issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and the fuel injection system. On the used car market, the 2.0 HDi 110 hp C5 represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a comfortable, economical, and practical family car. Its reputation for reliability and low running costs continues to make it a popular choice.
