Citroen C5 Aircross

First Drive We try Chinese version of big SUV that's heading to Europe

- Mark Andrews

IT’S not unusual for multi-national car makers to create China-only models. What is rare is for one to launch a car in the Far East, only to bring it to Europe a year later – something that’s about to happen with the Citroen C5 Aircross.

This car shares its EMP2 platform with Peugeot’s 3008 (tested on Page 52) and 5008, plus the Vauxhall Grandland X and recently launched DS 7 Crossback. It’s one of the most distinctive Citroens for years, and furthers the expressive design language first seen on the C3 Aircross.

The C5 Aircross’s exterior stands out from the crossover crowd, but despite its big wheels and rugged body detailing, there’s no four-wheel-drive option. Still, that’s a trait we’re now used to on PSA SUVs and it won’t bother most people.