What transmission does the Citroën C5 use?
2 Answers
The Citroën C5 is equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission from Aisin (a renowned Japanese automatic transmission supplier). Advantages and disadvantages of the transmission: Advantages: When driving at speeds between 80-120 km/h with intentional variations in speed, the C5's transmission operates very smoothly, complementing the engine's strong power delivery for a satisfying experience. In urban driving, the transmission shifts smoothly and intelligently, favoring upshifts for better fuel economy during gentle driving and promptly downshifting when more power is needed. On winding mountain roads with frequent elevation changes and turns, the transmission avoids unnecessary gear changes. Disadvantages: Occasionally, the kickdown response is insufficient. During normal driving, slightly pressing the accelerator can trigger a downshift, causing the engine speed to jump from below 2,000 rpm to over 2,000 rpm. This sudden increase in engine power can result in a slight jerk, which is noticeable to the driver and may feel unsettling. This can happen occasionally in both congested and smooth urban driving conditions. Therefore, new C5 drivers may need time to learn how to control the accelerator—sometimes avoiding pressing too deeply to prevent unwanted downshifts—for a smoother driving and riding experience. Solution: Press the S button next to the gear lever to activate Sport mode. In this mode, the transmission delays upshifts, keeping the engine speed above 2,000 rpm. This makes the throttle response more immediate and power delivery more spirited, enhancing confidence during acceleration and overtaking. However, prolonged use of Sport mode will increase fuel consumption.
As a Citroën enthusiast, I've driven several C5 models. The first-generation 2004 C5 often used a 4-speed automatic transmission, which felt a bit jerky when driving. The mid-term models like the 2012 version switched to a 6-speed automatic, mainly the Aisin 6AT, making it much smoother, especially the diesel version which performed steadily. The new C5, such as the 2020 model, mostly uses an 8-speed automatic transmission from ZF or similar suppliers, improving fuel efficiency and quietness. The transmission type is influenced by the engine, for example, the 1.6T gasoline engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic, while manual transmissions usually offer 5 or 6-speed options. When choosing, pay attention to the year and maintenance records. Older automatic transmissions are prone to faults, and delayed oil changes may cause gear shifting to be sluggish. It's recommended to check the fluid every 60,000 kilometers to maintain smooth operation. In short, it depends on personal needs, the new C5 is more suitable for city driving.
