CITROEN
C4/C4 X
Citroën’s alternative take on the C-segment car (eg, the VW Golf) is the C4 hatchback and C4 X saloon. They look vaguely crossover-like due to high roofs and ground clearance, but they’re very much just tall cars rather than SUVs. A modest update has been applied for 2025 to give the cars a fresh look, but the core formula isn’t new, and Citroën admirably continues to focus on comfort above sportiness. There are electric versions of each to consider as well.
Citroen admirably continues to focus on comfort above sportiness
Ami
Technically speaking, the Ami isn’t a car at all, but a “quadricycle”, and make sure you check it out properly before you see its low price and assume it’s the EV you’ve been waiting for. The Ami is best thought of as an alternative to a low-powered scooter, and its 45km/h speed limit clearly shows it’s only suitable for urban use. There’s plenty of space inside for two people, though it is quite bare and plastic – “functional”, if we’re being kind. An updated model arrives this year, which won’t change any of the above, and most are being bought to promote a business due to their eye-catching appearance.
C5 Aircross
A smooth new concept car revealed by Citroën at the end of 2024 previews an all-new C5 Aircross expected by the end of 2025, so consider the current car to be on borrowed time. It’s a spacious and comfortable five-seat SUV with a wide choice of powertrains to suit most needs. Petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options are available, the latter with an electric range of up to 64km.
C5 X
We’re not sure how to define the C5 X as it really is a crossover of several automotive body styles. It looks a bit like an estate at first, but it’s quite tall and has rugged-looking wheelarches. Inside the spacious cabin, it feels more like a luxury saloon. Petrol and plug-in hybrid powertrains are offered, and somewhat surprisingly, the 1.2-litre petrol engines have enough go to push this big car along. Stick with smaller wheels for maximum comfort.
Berlingo
Based on the small van of the same name, the practical Berlingo passenger car has had a facelift to visually align it with the newer Citroëns. Diesel power – and up to seven seats – is available for conversion to wheelchair-accessible vehicles, but for others the only option is the electric E-Berlingo. It is limited to five seats, but there’s loads of room for adults in every one and it has a huge boot behind. The official range on a charge is 320km.
C3
Citroën’s latest C3 is an upright creation modelled after the striking Oli concept, and it works to give character to the French company’s top-selling product. There’s also a charming interior, which is built to a cost but cleverly laid out, practical, and spacious. Power comes from non-hybrid manual and hybrid automatic versions of a 1.2 petrol, or – in the e-C3 – a 113hp electric motor, and a battery big enough for up to 320km of range. It’s incredibly well priced.
