Citroen’s first large passenger car in six years will offer a single petrol engine and one highly-specified variant when it reaches Australia later this year.
The 2023 Citroen C5 X ‘crossover’ wagon is due in Australian showroom in the fourth quarter of 2022 (October to December) – but it won’t offer the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system available in Europe.
The C5 X – the first large Citroen passenger car since the last C5 was discontinued in 2016 – will come to Australia in one variant powered by a single petrol engine, a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder developing 133kW and 250Nm.
Driving the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission, the engine is used in a number of other Peugeot and Citroen models in Australia, including the C5 Aircross medium SUV.
It means Australia will not have access to the plug-in hybrid version available overseas, pairing the 133kW 1.6-litre turbo engine with an 80kW electric motor and 11.9kWh battery for about 50km of claimed electric driving range.
Peugeot Citroen Australia general manager Kate Gillis told media in November last year the C5 X PHEV was under evaluation: “With regards to PHEV, absolutely on the table at the minute for evaluation, but we’ll be able to provide some further detail as we get closer to … the launch.”
The C5 X – which blends sedan, wagon and SUV – will be offered locally in a single highly-specified model variant, likely badged Shine, which will be positioned against flagship versions of other mid-size and large passenger cars.
Expect standard features to include a 12.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 19-inch alloy wheels, Advanced Comfort seats, adaptive dampers, and a full suite of advanced driver assist, including Level 2 semi-autonomous tech via adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist.
Pricing has yet to be confirmed, however if overseas prices are a guide, expect the single C5 X variant to cost between $50,000 and $55,000 plus on-road costs locally – or beyond $55,000 drive-away.
The brand’s current flagship is the C5 Aircross medium SUV, which is priced just under $50,000 plus on-road costs.
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