Citroën C5 Saloon (08 on) - Review

Review by Dan Harrison on
Last Updated: 27 November 2008
This handsome C5 is a vast improvement on the last car to wear the badge. It's far more sophisticated with a high quality interior, a sharper exterior design and much better build quality. Another change is that this car is a saloon, whereas the old car was a hatchback. It means that it has a more upmarket image, though at the price of practicality. Although this is an all new car, it still carries over some of the old C5's core strengths: excellent diesel engines, good levels of equipment and excellent comfort. Crucially, it's now good enough to be a realistic alternative to models like the Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Insignia.
3.5 out of 5

Buying new

Depreciation can be minimised by opting for one of the higher-spec models, such as the VTR+. They're likely to hold onto a larger proportion of their value, as buyers look for well equipped cars on the used market. Buyers who have previously bought a C5 may find that the incentives and discounts on offer aren't as generous as before - the 'premium feel' of the C5 means it won't be sold as a bargain basement car. But it remains good value with generous levels of equipment and competitive list prices.

Buy a new Citroën C5 Saloon and save 24% on selected models

4 out of 5

Buying used

The best are likely to be in the Citroen dealer network, though there should also be a steady stream of cars available through private sales. Citroen supplies a lot of fleets, which should mean plenty of well-equipped diesel models on the market. Only the top-spec Exclusive gets interior 'mood lighting' and front electric seats - though these are added luxuries rather than essentials.

See 150 used Citroën C5 Saloons for sale, starting at £5,449

3 out of 5

Selling

Many buyers are downsizing to smaller cars, so it's not always easy to sell on any car this size. However, as long as it's well equipped and sensibly-priced, there should be no problem finding a buyer.