Citroen C5 Aircross review - MPG, running costs & CO2 emissions

While the Citroen C5 Aircross launched with conventional petrol and diesel engines, the lineup has changed quite a bit over the years. Since 2023 there’s a mild-hybrid model, which has now replaced the conventional petrol engine – Citroen claims its efficiency in urban environments has improved by a third over that version.

Although diesel may be going the way of the dodo, Citroen still offers a BlueHDi 130 diesel model. It’s actually cheaper than the mild-hybrid, so it’s definitely worth considering if you think it would suit your needs. It’s certainly the most efficient on paper, but be aware that that will only be the case if you cover lots of motorway miles, so it’s not as well suited to shorter trips.

The plug-in hybrid model is a great option if you have the budget. While it’s only available on higher-spec models, it’s capable of running on electricity for up to 64 miles, which will come in handy for trips around town if you’ve got a home wallbox charger to keep it charged up. Be aware that its lofty fuel economy figures may look appealing but are only really attainable if you are able to charge it up regularly at home.

The plug-in hybrid model emits just 33g/km according to official WLTP testing, so that means it currently sits in a low Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax bracket, making it cheaper to run for company-car buyers.

How much will the Citroen C5 Aircross cost in tax?

Currently the regular diesel version of the C5 Aircross is liable for the standard rate of VED (road tax), while the mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid models get a £10 discount. However, this is due to end in April 2025, when the discount will no longer apply.

What will the Citroen C5 Aircross cost to insure?

The PureTech petrol Citroen C5 Aircross is the cheapest version to insure, occupying groups 16 to 18, depending on the trim level. The Blue HDi diesel ranges from group 17 to 18 with the range-topping PHEV the most expensive, sitting in group 27. The C5 Aircross runs the Peugeot 3008 close for insurance costs; the 3008 ranges from insurance group 16 for the BlueTech 130 diesel to 24 for the PureTech 180 petrol in range-topping GT-Line trim.