Citroen's Nemo and C series causes stir

But that did not stop Citroen delivering a few surprises at the Brussels motor show, where the new C5 made its world debut.

The arrival of the C5 sedan and wagon was joined by the Nemo Combi and C8 people mover.

The C5 sedan and wagon, as well as the Nemo van, are on track to arrive here this year, the C5 in September and the van soon after.

However, those wanting to drive a C8 will be able to do so only through the Citroen DriveEurope lease program. There are no plans to sell the people mover here.

The C5 shares sophisticated running gear with the C6 and has a two-mode Hydractive 3 Plus suspension. It comprises a double wishbone and linked hub carrier at the front and a rear multi-link set-up with a drop-link longitudinal arm.

Visually the C5 shares some design elements with the C6, from the concave rear window to the extended roof line. Inside, the car uses a similar fixed-hub steering wheel to the C4's. A central display screen provides a range of information.

As with other premium European sedans, the C5 has an electric parking brake with hill-start assist to hold the car stationary for up to two seconds after the brake pedal is released.

Because the C5 is based on the C6 and Peugeot 407, it is slightly longer and wider than the current model but 26mm lower on a 70mm longer wheelbase. Australia specifications are yet to be determined but importers say the turbo-diesels are a definite starter.

In Europe there is a choice of three petrol engines and four turbo-diesels, the 80kW 2.0-litre HDi, 100kW 2.0-litre HDi, 125kW 2.2-litre HDi and range-topping 150kW 2.7-litre V6 HDi.

Importer Ateco Automotive Ltd spokesman Edward Rowe says diesels account for more than 85 per cent of current C5 sales locally and are expected to climb towards 95 per cent.

“The 2.2-litre twin-turbo diesel is initially manual only so will not come until it is available as an automatic,” he says.

C5 prices are expected to start at about $40,000 for the entry petrol model.

The Nemo Combi rounds out the Nemo family with the van version and the C8's styling brings it in line with other Citroens.