ë-C5 Aircross
Alternatives: Vauxhall Grandland Electric, Peugeot e-5008, Tesla Model Y, Skoda Enyaq, Kia EV5
Overview
The Citroën ë-C5 Aircross marks the French brand's largest leap into the family-sized electric crossover market. Moving onto Stellantis's advanced STLA Medium platform, this transforms the nameplate from a combustion-focused model into a highly competitive, fully electric SUV. It shares its mechanical foundations with the Peugeot e-3008 and Vauxhall Grandland Electric, yet it strikes out a unique market position by aggressively undercutting those models on price. Positioned firmly in the fiercely contested C-SUV segment, the ë-C5 Aircross aims to lure buyers away from established rivals like the Skoda Enyaq and Renault Scenic E-Tech, focusing square on traditional Citroën trademarks: exceptional value for money and uncompromised ride comfort.
Design
The ë-C5 Aircross replaces its old, rounded shapes with a much tougher, boxier, and more aggressive SUV style. The front adopts Citroën's updated badge, an upright nose, and sharp LED split headlights. Aerodynamic efficiency plays a role in shaping the exterior, with a low front aero bumper designed to smooth out airflow and reduce drag. Down the flanks, chunky black cladding and contrasting coloured clips on the lower doors give it a rugged look, while the entry-level models ride on 19-inch Moondust diamond-cut alloy wheels. The most distinctive design element is found at the rear, where the unique Light Wings LED taillights protrude outwards from the bodywork to channel air smoothly over the rear.
Interior
Inside, the cabin introduces the distinctive C-Zen Lounge layout that moves away from extreme minimalism in favour of rich textures and geometric styling. The centrepiece is a 13-inch HD Waterfall display that flows smoothly down into the central console, helped by a dedicated 10-inch digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel. While there are some harder plastics on the upper dashboard surfaces, Citroën has broken up the monotony by cladding the lower dash sections in premium, light grey tactile fabrics. The physical switchgear is minimal, meaning most of the climate controls happen via the screen. Lower trim levels feature the 'Urban Grey' or 'Metropolitan Blue' cloth aesthetics, while top-spec variants elevate the premium feel with dark blue faux leather.
Performance & Powertrains
The ë-C5 Aircross uses a FWD, single-motor configuration offered with two distinct battery options. The standard Comfort Range setup pairs a 210 hp electric motor with a 73kWh battery pack, delivering a highly competitive range of 322 miles. For drivers prioritizing long-distance travel, the Long Range version bumps power slightly to 228 hp and swaps to a massive 97kWh battery, boosting the range to an outstanding 420 miles. Out on the road, performance is relaxed, with a 0-62 mph sprint taking roughly 8.8 seconds. Staying true to the brand, the mechanical setup prioritises an isolated, plush driving feel over sharp cornering. It features an advanced independent rear suspension system coupled with Citroën's Advanced Comfort progressive hydraulic dampers, which excel at smoothing out urban potholes and motorway imperfections. Charging capability is excellent across the board, with peak charging speeds of 160 kW on both batteries allowing a 20% to 80% top-up to be completed in 27 to 30 minutes.
Practicality
A substantial 152 mm increase in overall vehicle length over the old model has turned this SUV into one of the most spacious five-seat choices in its class. Rear passengers benefit from an long 2.78-metre wheelbase, providing excellent legroom and headroom that comfortably accommodates tall adults. The previous model's three individual sliding rear seats have been replaced by a more conventional 40:20:40 split-folding rear bench, but still offers reclining backrests for added comfort. Luggage capacity is very generous with a 565-litre boot that easily outdoes many rivals. Folding the rear seats completely flat expands the cargo volume to a massive 1,668 litres. Cabin storage options are equally impressive, with a deep, chilled storage cubby beneath the front central armrest, a large glovebox, wide door bins, and a dedicated wireless charging pad up front.
Buying
Pricing for the ë-C5 Aircross is highly competitive for a European-built vehicle of this size, starting at £34,065 for the entry-level You! trim, moving up to £36,705 for the mid-spec Plus, and topping out at £39,345 for the flagship Max trim when paired with the standard 210 hp powertrain. Upgrading to the ultra-long-distance 228 hp Long Range battery pack commands a modest premium of £2,620, making it an extremely compelling value option. Standard kit is generous even on base versions, including adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera, and LED headlights. The EV Hub recommended configuration is the mid-spec Plus trim paired with the 228 hp Long Range battery pack. This specific setup strikes the ultimate balance between affordability and usability, undercutting the £40,000 threshold while unlocking an incredible 420 mile range alongside desirable cabin upgrades like proximity keyless entry, ambient lighting, and an upgraded interior.