STYLE | Motoring


AIR AND GRACES NEW CITROEN C5 AIRCROSS FLAIR PLUS


Tested on the Island by Roz Whistance


Now and again you come across a car tai lor-made for our Island. One that takes you, your people and all their gear out on the downs, down to the coast or through town with ease, space and aplomb. The Citroen C5 Aircross Flair Plus does all that – whi le capturing the Island’s famed sense of wel lbeing


T


he C5 Aircross marks a return to luxurious riding combined with a Parisian chic. It is a handsome vehicle. Sleek lines running


from its striking ‘V’ marque give an authority beyond the expectations of an SUV, and the glorious full-length opening panoramic sunroof is just a joy.


It is no surprise to learn that the interior has been inspired by contemporary furniture. Broad ‘Advanced Comfort’ seats – full- sized even in the back, and richly upholstered – give an unquestionable sense of luxury, as does the palm- fitting gear lever, finger-flickable brake and a refreshingly uncluttered dash.


There’s something very satisfying about starting a car by pressing a big round button: a sense that anything could happen. The shock is that the engine is whisper quiet. Thanks to double laminated windows, combined with a hydraulic cushion system


Citroen are calling its ‘flying carpet effect’, road noise is minimized, giving the car a genuine sense of calm.


And the ride? Effortless, smooth, road hugging – and fun. Within minutes this feels like your car, taking all conditions in its stride. Our test was in the height of summer, with all the associated delays and temporary traffic lights, but should bendy Bembridge and precipitous Ventnor be gripped with another winter freeze the Aircross C5 can be all prepared: opt for Grip Control and Hill Descent Assist which are activated by a nicely intuitive central console.


Safety is a major part of this lounge on wheels. ‘Driver Assist’ will guide you back to your lane position – great for off-Island A-roads and sleep- inducing motorways but probably best switched off on our narrow main highways. There are a total of 19 driver aids on the high spec version of the Aircross.


The C5 has techie features we’ve seen before – keyless entry and start, map and satnav, music, Bluetooth phone functions – but refined. The 8” touch screen accesses exceptional quality sounds, climate control and map services, while satnav junction detail also pops up on the driver display, just where you want it.


Indeed spatial design is key. From the clever multiway seat configuration that offers a 720litre boot, (double- decker 1630l when seats are flat); a hands-free tailgate; the central armrest storage compartment that takes a realistic-sized water bottle, and the fling-it-down phone charger, the designers have excelled.


The only question remaining: can this really be called an SUV? It’s a Sporty Vehicle, certainly – but if this is a Utility vehicle I’d like to see a luxury one.


On test was the Citroen C5 Aircross Flair Plus. On the road price with metallic paint: £33,675. Range starts at £22,905. Available to test drive at Central Garage, Riverway, Newport, PO30 5UX. Tel: 01983 526541.


120 styleofwight.co.uk


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