PLUG LOVE (some text hidden) SECTIONED_new_citroenc5aircrosshybrid_2023

By Jonathan Crouch

Introductionword count: 112

By 2022, the Stellantis Group conglomerate was busy electrifying all its mid-sized SUVs and by then, the Citroen C5 Aircross had had that tech for two years. In 2022 though, the C5 Aircross Plug-in Hybrid model became available with somewhat smarter packaging. As before, it was a front-driven package and like its group stablemates, it could be recharged from a home wallbox in under 2 hours. Fully replenished, it offered a decent full-electric driving range - EAER-certified at 38 miles. Like all first generation C5 Aircross variants, this one majors on comfort, courtesy of the brand's 'Progressive Hydraulic Cushion' set-up. Let's take a look at this 2022-2025-era model as a used buy.

Modelsword count: 9

5dr SUV (1.6 petrol Hybrid Plug-in) [Shine, Shine Plus]

Historyword count: 172

The C5 Aircross, launched in 2018, sold steadily for Citroen in the mid-sized 5-seat part of the SUV sector but needed a few more headlines. The introduction of this Plug-in Hybrid variant in 2020 provided a few of those, this variant incorporating a cutting-edge electrified powertrain. Citroen tried to build this into the car without compromising its other comfort-orientated attributes and, as usual with the brand, there was a strong emphasis on value and innovative design. After 2020 and this PHEV derivative's original launch though, lots of other Plug-in C-segment SUV crossover models arrived in the segment, hence the need in 2022 for this updated version with its smarter looks and classier cabin. As with the original version, this won't be the first car you'll have thought of if you happen to be looking for a mid-sized plug-in SUV from the 2022-2024 era, but it might well be worth including on your wish list. The updated version of this C5 Aircross Plug-in Hybrid sold until the second generation model arrived in 2025.

What You Getword count: 369

There's very little to visually give away the fact that this variant is a hybrid, apart from 'Hybrid' badging on the front wings and the tailgate. This revised post-2022-era model borrowed some of the styling cues of the brand's executive C5 X as part of a refreshed exterior design, with a more vertical and modern front end that brought sleeker aerodynamics. The front grille was restyled and there was a revised version of the iconic Citroen logo, where here became detached from the daytime running lights, with chevrons that appeared in black lacquer in a chrome setting, this standing out more overtly against the central grille. Around the car, extra glossy or anodised detailing was added as part of this update - in colours such as Glossy Black and Dark Chrome, all of it intended to demonstrate the model's more up-market positioning. Inside, front seat occupants get the brand's unique 'Advanced Comfort' seat design, which features a core of high-density foam and an additional 15mm top layer of textured foam to ensure maximum comfort and support for the driver and passengers. There's a 12.3-inch digital driver's display and (for this updated model) a revised 10-inch high-definition touchscreen that was positioned higher up on the dashboard to reduce stress by ensuring the driver kept their eyes on the road. Nice touches include an active air quality system that uses an air-purifying carbon filter. As with the pre-facelift model, this Gallic SUV's lengthy wheelbase translates into a cabin that feels significantly larger than that of most family SUVs in this class. In the rear, the car is one of the few in its segment to feature three individual, same-width seats that slide, recline and fold flat. Not only does this mean that everyone on-board enjoys an exceptional level of comfort no matter where they sit, but it also creates the numerous possibilities for configuring the interior space. Few PHEV competitors can match the size of this C5 Aircross model's luggage space area, the extent of which depends on the position of the sliding second row bench. The 460-litre capacity is 120-litres down on what you get in an ordinary C5 Aircross though, thanks to battery placement beneath the cargo area base.

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