Citroen were never skimpy with their trim finishes and the C5 is far from being an exception. Available in three trim finishes, even the entry-level VTR models come in with a very high set of specifications. That means electric windows front and rear, climate and cruise control. The next level upwards provides hide upholstery, power adjustable heated driver and passenger seat, keyless ignition, satellite-navigation, dual zone climate control and either fifteen or sixteen inch alloy wheels fitted with 215 / 55 R16 W tyres. All of the models can be fitted with a rear seat extending panoramic glass roof as a welcome but expensive extra.
Safety features for the C5 are very comprehensive taking in five airbags and stability control. All C5s come with a specially adaptable " cornering light" designed to illuminate bends on approach as well as the option of headlights that will turn in the direction of the car's front wheels. Top of the range C5s also come with laminated side windows that are almost totally shatter proof.
Fuel consumption for the C5 petrol engine starting level 1.6 liter 125 horsepower, according to unofficial reviews (not manufacturer provided statistics), averages out at 45.6 miles per gallon with 34.4 miles per gallon recorded in the city and 55.4 miles per gallon out of it, while the 1.6 liter 156 horsepower engine version will give an average of 44.1 miles per gallon, gallon with 30.7 miles per gallon in town and 44.1 miles per gallon on the open road.
The diesel engined versions of the Citroen C5 Sedan provide much improved fuel consumption with the 1.6 liter 112 horsepower engine giving a highly creditable average 60.1 miles per gallon with 47.9 miles per gallon recorded in the city and 68.9 miles per gallon out of it , while the 2.0 liter 140 horsepower engined version recorded an average of 58.9 miles per gallon with 44.1 miles per gallon in town and 72.4 miles per gallon on the open road.
The top of the range diesel engines for the Citroen C5 Sedan with the 3.0 liter has been reported as providing an average 49.6 miles per gallon with 36.2 miles per gallon recorded in the city and 62.9 miles per gallon out of it.
The 2012 Citroen C5 Sedan comes up against well tried and tested opponents in the medium to large sized Sedan sector, among them the Peugeot 508 as well as the Volkswagen Passat, Hyundai i40, and the Skoda Superb Sedan.