Citroën C5 Aircross PHEV: 225 hp, but Really 30 More?

The new Citroën C5 Aircross plug-in hybrid now displays 225 hp compared to 195 hp previously, representing a 30 horsepower gain. This power increase is part of a range harmonization strategy at Stellantis, without any mechanical modifications to the powertrain.

"A value that better reflects the driving pleasure offered by this engine and is consistent with declarations observed on the market" — Citroën

A Power Increase Without Technical Changes

This evolution to 225 hp is more of an administrative adjustment than a real mechanical revolution. Under the hood, we still find the same 1.6-liter turbo gasoline engine with 150 hp paired with a 125 hp electric motor, all integrated into the eDCS7 automatic gearbox with dual clutch and seven gears.

The difference comes from the method of calculating combined power, anticipating new homologation methods related to the Euro 7 standard. In short: the horsepower was already there, but it wasn't expressed the same way.

Performance Remains Identical

Despite the announcement of these 30 additional horsepower, performance figures haven't budged an inch. The 0 to 100 km/h remains fixed at 7.7 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 220 km/h. The standing 1000-meter sprint still takes 28.1 seconds.

This situation may seem paradoxical, but it's explained by the fact that the vehicle's actual power has never changed. Only the measurement and display method evolves to align with future European standards.

Convincing Electric Range

The real strength of the C5 Aircross PHEV lies in its electric range. With its 21.5 kWh gross battery (17.8 kWh usable), it claims 96 km in mixed WLTP cycle and up to 113 km in urban driving. A 33% improvement compared to the previous model which easily covers the 34 km of average daily commutes.

The fuel tank, increased to 55 liters, allows for approximately 650 km of highway range, for a total range exceeding 1,100 km. Enough to reassure family SUV buyers concerned about long trips.

What Changes Daily?

On the road, this reclassification changes nothing about the driving experience. The C5 Aircross PHEV retains its usual refinement, with that fluid sensation provided by the electric motor's instant torque during combined acceleration phases.

Official fuel consumption remains stable at 2.5 l/100 km in combined cycle, with CO2 emissions at 55 g/km. Complete recharge takes 5h15 on a 7.4 kW wallbox with the standard charger, or 2h55 with the optional 7.4 kW charger option.

A Difficult Context for Ste