Equipped with PHC, a Modern Interpretation of Hydropneumatics

Citroën, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, has unveiled the new "C5 Aircross SUV" as its new "C5" model.

The concept emphasized is "comfort." The "Citroën Advanced Comfort® Program" claims to enhance comfort through six key areas: suspension, seats, space, materials, air quality, and acoustics.

Particularly noteworthy is the suspension. It features PHC (Progressive Hydraulic Cushions), a modern interpretation of Citroën's signature hydropneumatic system—renowned as a "magic carpet"—previously used in models like the "DS," and the previous generation "C5" and "C6."



The PHC technology, which applies principles from Citroën's current WRC cars, is a system with an additional secondary damper within the main damper cylinder. A secondary cylinder is placed inside the main damper cylinder, housing a secondary piston that matches its inner diameter. As the suspension stroke progresses, this secondary piston enters the cylinder, acting as a position-sensitive hydraulic stop.

This contributes to a soft ride, smoothly absorbing impacts from large bumps and undulations through the damping force generated by the secondary piston and cylinder.



The powertrain consists of a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine, also found in the Peugeot "508," paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission (EAT8), producing a maximum output of 130 kW (177 PS) and a maximum torque of 400 Nm.

While it is front-wheel drive, Citroën claims it utilizes technology derived from its rally experience for vehicle control. A dial on the center console allows selection based on road conditions: Mud, Snow, Sand, and Normal ESC Off. It is also equipped with Hill Descent Control, which automatically maintains a low speed on steep descents of 5 degrees or more without driver braking.

Comfort Pursued in Seats and Interior Space

Comfort is also a focus in the interior, with seats featuring proprietary high-density polyurethane foam. An additional 15mm layer of upholstery material further enhances the initial softness upon sitting.

The driver's seat includes a multi-point lumbar support, allowing fine adjustments for the driver's body shape, along with an 8-airbag massage system offering five patterns. The rear seats are three independent units. Applying know-how from the modular seats of MPVs like the "Grand C4 SpaceTourer," they offer 150mm of fore-aft slide and five-stage recline.



Further enhancing comfort, the vehicle boasts improved quietness and incorporates an AQC (Air Quality System) to maintain clean air. The luggage space can be expanded to a maximum of 1,630 liters by folding the rear seats, and it is equipped with a hands-free electric tailgate that can be opened and closed with a wave of the foot.

Safety features include Active Cruise Control, Park Assist, and a rearview camera.

The body is available in six colors, including Blanc Nacre (white) and Noir Perla Nera (black). The price is 4.24 million yen.

Citroen C5 Aircross SUV | Citroën C5 Aircross SUV
Body Dimensions | Length 4,500 x Width 1,850 x Height 1,710
Wheelbase | 2,730mm
Curb Weight | 1,640kg
Engine | 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder turbo diesel
Max Output | 130kW (177ps) / 3,750rpm
Max Torque | 400Nm / 2,000rpm
Transmission | 8-speed AT (EAT8)
Drivetrain | FF
Price | 4.24 million yen