2007 Citroen C5 Airscape Concept review

Citroen C5 Airscape Concept review:

Citroen will reveal its head-turning C5 Airscape concept car to the world at this year`s Frankfurt Motor Show. Featuring a carbon-fibre folding roof, striking styling and crammed with innovative technology, much of which is designed to minimise its impact on the environment, this all-new design provides a fresh take on the world of executive cabriolets.

The high waistline, ribbed panels, C6-style concave rear window and sleek, aerodynamic profile help to communicate the Citroën C5 Airscape`s exclusive status, while the distinctive exterior design is further enhanced by the 19-inch alloys, large air-intakes, twin chrome tailpipes and long incisive headlamps.

Without question, one of the 4-seater C5 Airscape`s defining characteristics is the automatically foldingtop. Complete with integrated sunroof and textile lining, this carbon-fibre roof resembles a canvas one, a feature so suggestive of up-market cabriolets.

It opens to reveal a sumptuous interior of dark-brown leather and chrome, reflecting the refined and sophisticated nature of the car. The clean, sculpted lines of the dashboard sit alongside the stylish design of the instrument cluster and air vents, while Citroën`s concept is also equipped with a new-style fixed centred controls steering wheel, incorporating touch-sensitive buttons enveloped in a thin membrane-like covering.

The latest in a line of green Citroën concepts, the C5 Airscape showcases important and innovative technology. Fuel economy is managed by an `UrbanHybrid` system that includes a reversible alternator-starter and super capacitors. This system allows onboard equipment, such as the air conditioning or audio system, to be powered by energy recovered during braking and deceleration, while engine torque can be temporarily boosted when required.

The `UrbanHybrid` system, which helps reduce CO2 emissions by 24g/km on the combined cycle, also switches off the engine when the vehicle is at standstill, before starting it again instantly once the accelerator is pressed. The fitting of a refined, bio-diesel compliant 208bhp 2.7HDi V6 engine, complete with particulate filter, further minimises any impact on the environment.

Helping the C5 Airscape to deliver levels of performance similar to those of a four-wheel drive car, a further technological advancement sees the introduction of a new `Snow Motion` traction control system that provides enhanced driving safety in low-grip conditions.