Citroën C-Crosser (07 on) - Review

Review by Dan Harrison on
Last Updated: 12 November 2008
The C-Crosser is Citroen's first off roader and it's certainly a good one. Stylish, comfortable inside and good to drive, most models come with seven seats as standard plus there's a superb diesel engine that's smooth, punchy and capable of 40mpg. That said, the C-Crosser isn't really a Citroen at all. It's actually designed and built by Mitsubishi (it sells its own version as the Outlander) and a near-identical version - the 4007 - is also sold by Peugeot. It's also not really an off roader as such - despite its switchable 4x4 system, limited ground clearance means it is far happier on tarmac, helped by a quiet ride and a refined cabin.
4 out of 5

Other Citroën reviews

4 out of 5

Performance

Initially the C-Crosser was only available with a single 156bhp 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine, but it's a very a good all-round performer with strong pace and a smooth nature. It's a large car, so acceleration isn't blistering, although 62mph arrives in 9.9 seconds, but it's the way in which the power is developed that is most impressive. It builds smoothly and briskly from low revs and is ideal for effortless overtaking. In June 2008 a 2.4-litre petrol engine was added to the line-up and with 170bhp it can sprint from 0-62mph in 9.2 seconds, however it will only return 30mpg - 10mpg less than the HDi model. The diesel also gets a six-speed gearbox for slick short-shift changes, while the 2.4-litre makes do with a five-speed. However it is also available with an optional CVT automatic transmission. In 2009 a new dual clutch system automatic (or DCS for short) was added to the line-up - available exclusively with the HDi engine. This six-speed gearbox provides a standard automatic driving mode but there is also a manual mode which allows you to change gear using paddles behind the steering wheel.

4 out of 5

Handling

The C-Crosser is surprisingly agile for its size and capable of covering backroads quickly. It feels stable at all times with surprisingly little body roll for a large four-wheel drive. Grip is also good, making it possible to corner quickly and while the steering is responsive, it's not too heavy at parking speeds. Four-wheel drive can be selected by using a dial on the centre console. The car is usually in two-wheel drive, with the two front wheels being driven. However, switch to 4WD and the car can automatically detect which wheels are slipping, applying power appropriately. Lock mode keeps four-wheel drive permanent with pulling power split 50:50 between the front and rear axles. This is intended to keep the car moving on very loose or slippery surfaces. However the lack of ground clearance means that tackling deep ruts or steep inclines is out of the question.