How Does the New Citroën ë-C5 Aircross Stack Up Against Rivals on Price?
If you’re shopping for a family crossover, price is often the first thing you check. The new Citroën ë-C5 Aircross makes a bold entrance here, starting at £34,065 for the electric version. That’s a full £5,000 less than the Skoda Enyaq, one of its main competitors. Even the combustion-engine model, starting at £30,495, is priced to compete directly with the likes of the Mazda CX-5 and Nissan Qashqai.
But there’s more to the story. The UK government’s new electric car grant could knock up to £3,750 off the EV’s price, depending on eligibility. If that happens, the ë-C5 Aircross could become one of the most affordable electric crossovers in its class. For families looking to make the switch to electric without breaking the bank, that’s a game-changer.
What New Features and Tech Does the ë-C5 Aircross Offer?
Citroën isn’t just banking on price. The new ë-C5 Aircross arrives with a raft of features designed to make daily life easier and more comfortable. Even the base You! trim comes generously equipped: a 13-inch touchscreen with built-in navigation, wireless phone charging, adaptive cruise control, and 18-inch alloy wheels are all standard.
Move up to the Max trim and you’ll find premium materials, a larger head-up display, heated front seats and steering wheel, an electric tailgate, and—if you opt for the EV—a heat pump for better efficiency in cold weather. The focus on user-friendly tech is clear, with smartphone mirroring, a 10-inch digital display, and a voice control system powered by ChatGPT. That last bit is especially interesting, as it shows Citroën’s willingness to embrace AI to improve the driving experience.
How Does the New Design Improve Space and Comfort?
Let’s talk about space, because Citroën has made big strides here. The new ë-C5 Aircross is 150mm longer than its predecessor, with almost all of that extra length going into rear legroom. The wheelbase has grown by 60mm, and rear passengers now enjoy 51mm more knee room and 68mm more headroom. That’s a noticeable difference, especially for families with growing kids or adults who regularly ride in the back.
Citroën calls the interior a “C-Zen Lounge,” and it’s not just marketing fluff. The dashboard draws inspiration from living room furniture, featuring foam fabric padding that feels more like a sofa than a car seat. Ambient lighting is customizable in eight colors, and the new “floating” touchscreen is the largest ever fitted to a Stellantis car, replacing most physical controls but keeping key functions easily accessible.
The seats themselves have been re-engineered for comfort, with thick lower padding and side bolsters that are now electrically adjustable. In the back, the seats recline between 21 and 33 degrees, adding to that “comfort class” feel. There’s even a pair of cupholders and USB-C ports for rear passengers—small touches that make a big difference on long trips.
Is the Boot Big Enough for Family Life?
Boot space is often the Achilles’ heel of crossovers, but not here. The ë-C5 Aircross offers 651 liters of load space behind the rear seats—almost 150 liters more than the Nissan Qashqai. Fold the seats down and you get a cavernous 1,668 liters. There’s also a 75-liter hidden compartment under the boot floor, perfect for stashing the EV’s charging cable or keeping valuables out of sight.
What Powertrains Are Available, and How Far Can You Go on a Charge?
At launch, buyers can choose between a 143bhp hybrid (pairing a 1.2-liter three-cylinder petrol engine with a small electric motor) and a 207bhp pure electric version. The EV comes with a 73kWh battery, offering up to 322 miles of range—impressive for the segment and more than enough for most daily needs.
But Citroën isn’t stopping there. Soon, two more powertrains will join the lineup: a plug-in hybrid combining a 1.6-liter petrol engine, electric motor, and 21kWh battery for 193bhp and 53 miles of electric-only driving, and a beefier 227bhp EV with a 97kWh battery, stretching range to a whopping 421 miles. That’s a serious contender for anyone worried about range anxiety.
How Does the ë-C5 Aircross Drive and Handle?
While we’re still waiting on full road tests, early impressions suggest that Citroën’s focus on comfort hasn’t wavered. The car’s larger footprint and advanced suspension should translate to a smoother ride, especially over rough British roads. The new platform—shared with the Peugeot 3008 and Vauxhall Grandland—brings improved rigidity and handling, while the electric powertrain promises instant torque and quiet cruising.
What Sets the ë-C5 Aircross Apart in a Crowded Market?
It’s easy to get lost in the sea of crossovers, but Citroën’s approach stands out. The brand has always leaned into comfort and quirky design, and the ë-C5 Aircross is no exception. From the living room-inspired interior to the bold exterior styling and thoughtful tech, it’s clear Citroën wants this car to feel like a sanctuary on wheels.
The competitive pricing, especially with potential government incentives, makes it accessible to a wider audience. Add in the flexible powertrain options and family-friendly features, and you’ve got a crossover that’s genuinely worth a look.
Key Takeaways for Families and Everyday Drivers
If you’re after a family crossover that doesn’t blend into the background, the new Citroën ë-C5 Aircross is worth your attention. It’s bigger, more comfortable, and smarter than before, with enough tech to keep everyone happy and enough space for all your gear. The pricing undercuts key rivals, and the upcoming powertrain options mean you won’t have to compromise on range or efficiency.
In a market where so many cars feel like copy-paste jobs, Citroën’s latest effort feels refreshingly original. Whether you’re making the jump to electric or just want a more comfortable ride for your family, this is one crossover that delivers on its promises.