What's the difference?
The all-new Citroen C5 X is different. It takes just one look at the car to realise that.
It’s partly an SUV, has more than a hint of wagon to it, and it’s nothing like the old Citroen C5s of years gone by. That’s no bad thing - because this is the sort of Citroen that people who have never even heard of the brand will likely pay attention to
The brand has shaken off its ‘quirky and French’ vibes for a more ‘modern European’ look, and let me tell you - this is a very interesting car. Read on to find out all the stuff you want to know, plus the things you need to know.
More than half a century of 5 Series pedigree has led BMW to this, the first electric version of its venerable sedan, the i5.
It's true that electric cars come with benefits that suit the realm of luxury (or at least executive) motoring like their effortless acceleration and near-silent operation, so this new G60 5 Series has the potential to be the best yet in its ‘i5’ form.
But there are rivals, well-liked ones at that, which BMW must contend with to snatch the spot at the top of the large premium sedan ladder technically held currently by the Porsche Taycan in terms of sales - though Mercedes’ E-Class would lead if its electric cousin EQE’s sales were combined.
So, with names like that to go up against, BMW better have brought its A-game.
This is a new take on the Citroen station wagon, and it’s an impressive one at that. It may not tick all the boxes, but it is a comfortable and practical car, with stunning design, decent equipment and a pretty agreeable price tag.
Now, just get that plug-in hybrid version in at a reasonable price please, Citroen.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with meals provided.
There’s no getting around the i5 being a rather expensive offering. More than $150,000 to get into an electric sedan that’s not much faster than a hot hatch is a big ask, but there’s plenty to enjoy about the 5 Series.
Things like its heated leather seats shouldn’t be the reason you’re willing to spend so much on a sedan when a $50,000 hybrid SUV will score you the same, instead it’s the fact the 5 Series is a delight to drive and hasn’t lost the feeling of prestige the badge has earned over the last half a century.
In terms of value - if speed isn’t your focus and you’re less of a gadget-type-operator when looking at cars like this - the 520i has the style and comfort you’d need and at $100K less than the M60.
And in terms of large electric sedans, the i5 eDrive40 is cheaper than a Porsche Taycan (by a little) or an Audi e-Tron (by a lot). The Genesis G80 Electrified is the closest cheaper rival, by about $10K, or the less powerful Mercedes EQE is similarly priced at $154,900.
Essentially, if you’re looking at a 5 Series, it might be worth considering if you really need it to be electric, but if so, there aren’t many alternatives in its category for the price.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with meals provided.