The Citroën C5 X is a large Citroën car introduced in 2021, blending the traits of a saloon, estate and crossover. We look at what sets it apart, which petrol and hybrid engines are on offer, how the trims differ and what to check when buying a used C5 X.
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C5 X in brief
The C5 X has taken the place of the larger Citroën C5 and C6 in the range. It’s built in China on the EMP2 platform. The car is around 4.8m long, slightly taller than a typical saloon and has a large tailgate with rear window, so the 545-litre boot is easy to load (slightly smaller in the hybrid).
The C5 X’s standout feature is comfort: a supple ride with hydraulic suspension buffers (Progressive Hydraulic Cushions), Advanced Comfort seats and good sound insulation. The plug-in hybrid often comes with the adaptive Advanced Comfort Active Suspension set-up, while higher trims get a 12in multimedia screen and an extended head-up display.
C5 X generations and updates
The C5 X has had one generation so far. It went on sale in Europe at the end of 2021–early 2022 with petrol and plug-in hybrid engines. There’s no diesel engine or four-wheel drive option for the C5 X – all cars are front-wheel drive.
Later, the range was supplemented with a 48 V mild hybrid, the Hybrid 136, and around 2024, Citroën switched to new trim names. The used market for the C5 X isn't overly saturated, so your choices are more limited compared to more popular models in this class.
Choose based on your driving habits: the petrol C5 X is ideal for those who cover long distances and can't charge the car, while the plug-in hybrid suits those who mostly drive short distances and can regularly charge it at home or work.
Engines and gearboxes
The base engine is the 1.2 PureTech (around 130 hp), with a more powerful option being the 1.6 PureTech (around 180 hp). Both are paired with an 8-speed automatic EAT8 gearbox; the C5 X doesn't come with a manual option.
The plug-in hybrid (around 225 hp) combines the 1.6 PureTech engine with an electric motor and e-EAT8 gearbox. According to the manufacturer's (WLTP) data, it can travel around 50–55 km on electric power alone, and it charges from a household socket or wall box.
The mild hybrid Hybrid 136 is a 1.2 petrol engine with a 48 V system and a 6-speed dual-clutch ë-DCS6 gearbox. In the city, it can briefly run on electric power alone, so it typically uses less fuel than a standard PureTech.
What to check when buying a used C5 X
The timing chain for the standard 1.2 PureTech engine operates in oil: if it's worn, it rattles, and debris can clog the oil pump strainer. Ask if the chain has been inspected or replaced according to the manufacturer's guidelines, if the correct oil has been used, and if the engine isn't consuming too much oil.
EAT8 and ë-DCS6 boxes should shift smoothly, without hesitation when moving. When buying a plug-in hybrid, test the charging and electric-only driving, check the battery status report, and if the car has adaptive suspension, ensure there are no warnings on the instrument cluster.
Check that the multimedia system and projection screen work without glitches, and ask if the software has been updated. Verify the mileage against service records and technical inspections, and check the body for repainted parts.
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Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; around 2024, Citroën switched to new names (Plus, Max).
Feel
2022–2023 model years
Base trim with plenty of standard equipment.
LED headlights
Multimedia screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Often — rear parking sensors
Feel Pack
2022–2023 model years
A popular choice with more comfort features.
Often — 12-inch multimedia screen with navigation
Often — automatic climate control
Light-alloy wheels
Shine
2022–2023 model years
Higher trim with better interior finishes.
Often — expanded projection screen
Often — faux leather and cloth upholstery
More advanced driver assistance systems
Shine Pack
2022–2023 model years
The most generously equipped early model
Often — electrically adjustable, heated front seats
Often — adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist
Largest wheels
Max
around 2024
The top-tier trim of the latest cars
Often — 12-inch multimedia screen with navigation
Often — projection screen
More comfort and safety features
C5 X trim comparison
Feel Pack
Shine
Shine Pack
Who it's for
For daily driving
For comfort and features
For maximum comfort
Most common wheel sizes
18-inch wheels
18–19-inch wheels
19-inch wheels
Infotainment
Often a 12-inch screen
12-inch screen, often a head-up display
12-inch screen, extended head-up display
Interior
Standard trim
Better trim
Top-spec trim, often with heated seats
Relative price in the used market
Budget-friendly
Mid-range
€€€
Most buyers' best bet is the Feel Pack or Shine with a petrol or mild-hybrid engine. The plug-in hybrid Shine Pack trim is worth considering if you can regularly charge it and want maximum comfort.
Pros
Exceptionally comfortable ride and seats
Spacious, easily accessible boot
Roomy second row of seats
Good sound insulation on the motorway
Cons
No diesel engine or four-wheel drive option
1.2 PureTech risk of uneven power distribution
Limited selection of used examples on the market
Frequently asked questions
Is the C5 X a saloon or an estate?
Neither one nor the other — the C5 X combines elements of both. It's lower than an SUV but slightly taller than a conventional saloon, and the large tailgate opens with the rear window, making loading as convenient as in an estate.
Which C5 X engine should you choose?
Most buyers will be happy with the 1.2 PureTech or mild-hybrid Hybrid 136. If performance is key, go for the 1.6 PureTech (around 180 hp), and the plug-in hybrid only if you can regularly charge it.
Does the C5 X have a diesel engine?
No, the C5 X is offered only with petrol, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid engines. For high-mileage drivers, the most economical choice is often the mild hybrid or plug-in hybrid, provided it can be charged frequently.
What makes the C5 X more comfortable than other large cars?
The C5 X is designed primarily for comfort: a soft suspension with hydraulic bump stops, thick cushioned Advanced Comfort seats and good sound insulation. If you're after sporty handling, it might feel too soft.
Updated 2026-10-10 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
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