Citroen C5 Aircross debuts at 2017 Auto Shanghai with new hydraulic suspension
Citroen launched its C5 Aircross SUV at Auto Shanghai 2017, introducing a new hydraulic cushion suspension and previewing a plug-in hybrid for the Chinese market.
Citroen unveiled the C5 Aircross at the 2017 Auto Shanghai show, marking the global debut of its new midsize SUV and the first production application of its Progressive Hydraulic Cushions suspension. The C5 Aircross is built on PSA’s EMP2 platform and targets the Chinese SUV market, which has seen rapid growth in recent years.
At 4.5 metres in length, 1.84 metres in width and 1.67 metres in height, the C5 Aircross sits above the C4 Cactus in Citroen’s SUV line-up. The design carries over the brand’s familiar Airbump protective panels and features a distinctive front end with four LED clusters. Buyers can choose between 17- and 19-inch alloy wheels and a range of body colour accents, reflecting Citroen’s emphasis on customisation.
The interior moves towards a more mature look compared to the C4 Cactus, with darker leather finishes and an all-digital 12.3-inch driver display. An 8-inch infotainment touchscreen and touch-sensitive controls feature as standard. Citroen is aiming for a more premium feel in the cabin, addressing feedback from earlier models sold in China.
Progressive Hydraulic Cushions suspension
The C5 Aircross introduces Citroen’s new Progressive Hydraulic Cushions suspension system, which the company says is covered by 20 patents. The system is designed to improve damping and ride comfort, echoing the hydropneumatic setups that made older Citroens famous for their smooth ride. This is the first time the technology has appeared in a production model, and Citroen has made it a key selling point for the C5 Aircross in China.
Powertrains for China, plug-in hybrid confirmed
Chinese-market C5 Aircross models will be offered with 165hp and 200hp petrol engines, both paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox. Citroen also confirmed a plug-in hybrid version for future release, with a combined output of 300hp and an all-electric range of 60km (37 miles). The plug-in hybrid will feature all-wheel drive, a first for Citroen’s SUV range.
The C5 Aircross is Citroen’s answer to the growing demand for SUVs in China, and its debut at Auto Shanghai is intended to strengthen the brand’s presence in the world’s largest car market. For a look at Citroen’s earlier SUV concepts, seeLeaked Citroen Aircross Concept.
