Exceptionally well equipped, it comes with a long list of features that could add thousands of pounds to, or may not even be available on rivals. These include a driver’s seat massager, lane departure warning system, acoustic laminated glass, self-levelling suspension, automatic electric parking brake and directional headlights, whilst every model in the range comes with at least seven airbags, ESP with traction control, automatic air-conditioning, speed limiter, cruise control, Adaptive Front-lighting System and Citroën’s unique fixed hub steering wheel.

The new C5 is offered in a choice of three trim levels – SX, VTR+ and Exclusive and, typically for a Citroën, the C5 is extremely well specified.  Cruise control and a speed limiter are fitted as standard, whilst most versions are equipped with an automatic electric parking-brake and hill-start assist.  For ease of parking and pedestrian safety, the C5 is also available with front and rear parking sensors, as well as a parking gap assistance system.

With the C5 comes the extension of Citroën’s class leading technology, such as the Company’s second generation fixed-centred controls steering wheel, which puts many of the car’s main functions, including cruise control, audio and telephone, right at the driver’s finger tips. The aesthetic and ergonomic design of the wheel allows for easy access to the tactile, membrane-covered controls, ensuring focus can be maintained on the road ahead.

The model can also be specified with Citroën’s new-generation NaviDrive system, featuring a 7-inch colour central display screen and voice activation of the built-in GSM telephone, audio system and satellite navigation.

Drivers can also rest easy knowing that their car is not only comfortable, but extremely safe too. Citroën is renowned for producing some of the safest vehicles on the road and the new C5 is no exception. Equipped with the very latest Citroën technology, the C5 provides its occupants with reassuring levels of protection in the event of an accident. The stiffened body and cabin structure incorporate both upper and lower absorbers at the front to soak up energy released in the event of impact.

Driver and passengers are fully protected by up to nine front, side and curtain airbags, as well as a specially created torso-shaped bag which is deployed thanks to the unique Citroën-specific fixed hub steering wheel, for ultimate safety. Awarded a five-star Euro NCAP rating for adult occupant protection, the new C5 is one of the safest cars on the road.

Control in difficult conditions is aided by the C5’s advanced braking system – Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Emergency Braking Assistance, ABS and ESP are all fitted as standard.  Citroën’s much lauded Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) is also available, to warn drivers of unintentionally crossing lane markings without signalling.

To meet the full range of driver needs and preferences, the new C5 is available with a wide choice of engines from launch.  The petrol powerplants include 127bhp 1.8i 16V and 143bhp 2.0i 16V units, while there are four HDi diesel engines – 110bhp, 138bhp, 173bhp and V6 208 units – all fitted with a Diesel Particulate Filter System that virtually eliminates particle emissions. 

Embodying the many advances Citroën has made in recent years, the new C5 will more than satisfy the requirements of buyers of large cars in terms of both quality and dependability.  A powerful addition to the Company’s impressive car line-up and a breath of fresh air in a market littered with anodyne rivals, the distinctive C5 ensures Citroën is strongly represented in the large family car sector.

On sale on the 2^nd April 2008, the C5 saloon will be complemented by the Tourer, which will be available in the summer, offering C5 style, with added practicality.