Citroen C5 begins battle in fleet market on April 7

Citroen's new upper-medium contender is to be launched in the UK on April 7 with prices ranging from £14,580 to £23,890 in a choice of 20 models and four specification levels.

The company is targeting the fleet market with the car, having identified that 75% of upper medium sector cars are purchased with company, hence the concentration on maximising ride quality, thanks to the introduction of the adaptive Hydractive 3 suspension system, the availability of satellite navigation and Trafficmaster Oracle and a range of engines that includes the latest direct injection petrol and diesel engines.

For example, the 2.0-litre HPi diesel and 2.0 HDi diesel direct injection engines return combined cycle figures of 37.7mpg and 50.4mpg respectively. The 2.2 HDi also has a particulate filter.

Service intervals are at 20,000 miles for petrol models and 12,500 miles for the diesel. The suspension system needs no maintenance for five years or 125,000 miles, while all models come with a three-year warranty.

The entry level LX comes with speed-sensitive wipers, automatic door locking after 30 seconds after unlocking if the doors aren't opened, a multi-function screen, a 12-volt socket and a boot that locks automatically once the car starts moving.

The SX adds light-sensitive self-illuminating headlamps, sun-sensitive automatic air-conditioning with individual controls for driver and front passenger, electric windows, adjustable folding armrests and alloy wheels, plus the suspension gains a 'sport' function.

The Exclusive level adds a six CD autochanger, an anti-theft alarm, tyre pressure warning, Xenon headlamps with washers, wood effect trim and a leather steering wheel. The range topping Exclusive SE adds leather upholstery, electric and heated front seats, colour satellite navigation, a pre-programmed electric sunroof and a parking assistance.

Citroen UK managing director Alain Favey said: “With its blend of truly useful advanced technology, purposeful looks and spacious interior, we are confident the C5 will provide motorists and in particular company car drivers, with a high quality alternative to the obvious family saloon shortlist and will win many new customers for Citroen.”

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