Citroën ë-C5 Aircross: our detailed test and measured performances of the 230 hp version

I must admit, the automotive world has become a true circus in recent years. Manufacturers throw promises around like confetti, and Citroën is no exception to this rule. Here comes the French carmaker once again with the ë-C5 Aircross, an electric SUV that hopes to entice beyond the dealership doors. It is with a certain dose of skepticism that we look into this creation, of which they dare to claim it embodies “French comfort”. Autonomy, power, but above all, style. But then, how does this version of 230 hp really hold up?

A power to make the asphalt tremble

In this modern world where everyone is into minimalism and efficiency, Citroën has decided to launch with a power that could make one blush with envy. With its 230 horsepower and a 96.9 kWh battery, we are promised up to 653 km of autonomy. Rest assured, when put through the tests, it turns out you should rather count on 500 km under real-world conditions. Less glorious, but still sufficient to consider a road trip, as long as you don't stop too frequently to recharge.

• Announced autonomy: 653 km - to be taken with a grain of salt.
• Real autonomy: 500 km in normal usage, 425 km on the highway.
• Charging time: About 27 minutes from 20 to 80%.

Driving: a sweet journey?

Comfort enthusiasts will be delighted to discover that the ë-C5 Aircross features hydraulic stop suspensions. This promises a sweet journey, in theory, but beware! On small imperfections in the asphalt, it can quickly turn into an Irish dance. Comfort is there, but one sometimes feels the car's desire to hug the pavement a bit too affectionately.

Space à la française

Inside, the SUV aims to be generous. A spacious interior, truly comfortable seats, and a trunk that can hold several bags for a long weekend. However, it’s worth noting that the abandonment of the independent rear seats from the previous model leaves a bit of a bitter taste. Instead, we end up with a traditional bench seat. Aesthetically, hard plastic sadly still dominates the landscape, like an unwanted guest at a chic party.

• Large trunk: Useful for getaways
• Simplicity of interfaces: A GPS that knows how to plan your route without leading you to disaster.
• Dampening: Absorbs big bumps but stumbles over small ones.

A technology up to the challenge?

In terms of technology, Citroën has not skimped on providing an intuitive GPS, even if it won't teach you how to manage the veins of a nuclear reactor. The controls are simple and the ergonomics, overall, are successful. A real plus for the driver eager to stay focused on the road rather than on a screen that yells at him to turn left at every corner.

The verdict under the scrutiny of Labo Auto Plus

A trip to Labo Auto Plus was necessary to untangle the truth from the falsehoods. The numbers speak for themselves: space, performance, consumption, and braking distances have all been thoroughly examined. And, while the ë-C5 Aircross makes charming promises, the reality turns out to be a bit less dazzling. A traveler with gentle manners, certainly, but not without its flaws. It remains to be seen if these qualities tip the scales when faced with more seasoned competitors.

• Quality of driving: Smooth but sometimes hesitant.
• Comfort: Top-notch, but a bit too plasticized.
• Competitiveness: Must take the competition into account.

In summary, the Citroën ë-C5 Aircross bets on a mix of autonomy, power, and comfort. But is it really a worthy heir to Citroën's tradition, or just a simple juggernaut of electrons, ill at ease in a world that has always asked it to be a little more?

For the intrepid who might be tempted by adventure, we can only hope that this model holds its ground among giants, such as its German rivals. The battlefield has been set, and it will be interesting to see who emerges victorious in this new automotive era.

Source: www.autoplus.fr

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