@ Citroën / Stellantis Media
@ Nissan Motor Corporation
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Citroen C5 Aircross vs Nissan Qashqai – Differences & prices compared

Two cars, one duel: Citroen C5 Aircross meets Nissan Qashqai.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!

C5 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Introduction: A Clash of Titans in the SUV Arena

The SUV market is ever-evolving, and consumers are often left pondering which model to choose. Today, we examine two key players: the Citroen C5 Aircross and the Nissan Qashqai. Both vehicles boast impressive specifications and advanced technologies, but how do they truly compare in terms of performance, comfort, and innovative features? Let's delve deeper into what each has to offer.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Dimensions and Design: First Impressions Matter

The Citroen C5 Aircross stretches to a length of 4500 mm and is 1859 mm wide, towering at 1688 mm high. Its distinctive design focuses on comfort, blending practicality with a touch of flair. With a generous trunk capacity of 580 liters, the C5 Aircross is well-equipped for family trips or luggage-laden adventures.

In comparison, the Nissan Qashqai, while slightly shorter at 4425 mm in length and narrower at 1835 mm, maintains a respectable height of 1625 mm. It offers a slightly smaller trunk capacity of 504 liters, yet still provides ample space for everyday use. Both models feature a sleek and modern aesthetic, but the choice may come down to personal preference.

C5 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Engine Options: Power to the People

The Citroen C5 Aircross offers a choice of three engine types: diesel, petrol MHEV, and a plug-in hybrid. The power outputs range from 131 HP to a powerful 224 HP, providing a variety of options for drivers who prioritize efficiency or performance. Fuel consumption is impressive, too, with the hybrid model consuming just 1.4 L/100km in electric mode, and an electric range of up to 58 km.

On the other hand, the Nissan Qashqai offers petrol MHEV and full hybrid variants, with power outputs ranging from 140 HP to 190 HP. Notably, the Qashqai's full hybrid engine delivers efficient performance with fuel consumption as low as 5.1 L/100km. The torque, which peaks at 330 Nm, ensures robust power delivery, particularly for those opting for an all-wheel-drive system.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Performance: Speed and Acceleration

When it comes to acceleration, the Citroen C5 Aircross performs admirably, with the fastest variant achieving 0-100 km/h in just 8.9 seconds. Its maximum speed can reach up to 225 km/h, offering plenty of excitement for drivers seeking a sporty edge.

Conversely, the Nissan Qashqai showcases swift performance as well, especially in its top-tier variant, which can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in a mere 7.9 seconds. Its highest speed caps at 206 km/h, making it a competitive performer in this segment.

C5 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Innovative Features: Comfort Meets Technology

The Citroen C5 Aircross is packed with innovative technology, including a remarkably comfortable suspension system that utilizes advanced hydraulic technology for a smooth ride over rough terrain. It also features an intuitive infotainment system, offering seamless smartphone integration and numerous driver-assist features for enhanced safety.

The Nissan Qashqai excels in its use of safety and driver-assist technologies, including ProPILOT Assist, which supports the driver in both highway and city driving. The Qashqai's user-friendly infotainment system and high-quality materials used throughout the cabin further accentuate its appeal.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Conclusion: Which SUV Reigns Supreme?

Ultimately, the choice between the Citroen C5 Aircross and the Nissan Qashqai boils down to individual preferences and priorities. If you lean towards comfort and innovative ride technology, the C5 Aircross may be the better fit. However, if you prioritize performance and cutting-edge driver assist features, the Qashqai stands out with its strong offerings.

Both vehicles showcase the capabilities that modern SUVs bring to the table, making this comparison a compelling study for any prospective buyer in the market. Regardless of your choice, rest assured you’ll be investing in quality engineering and contemporary design.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

C5 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Citroen C5 Aircross has a hardly perceptible advantage in terms of price – it starts at 29100 £, while the Nissan Qashqai costs 29600 £. That’s a price difference of around 471 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Citroen C5 Aircross manages with 2.50 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the Nissan Qashqai with 4.50 L. The difference is about 2 L per 100 km.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Citroen C5 Aircross has a minimal edge – offering 210 HP compared to 205 HP. That’s roughly 5 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Nissan Qashqai is barely noticeable quicker – completing the sprint in 7.60 s, while the Citroen C5 Aircross takes 8.30 s. That’s about 0.70 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Citroen C5 Aircross performs slight better – reaching 220 km/h, while the Nissan Qashqai tops out at 206 km/h. The difference is around 14 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Nissan Qashqai pulls slight stronger with 330 Nm compared to 300 Nm. That’s about 30 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Nissan Qashqai is a bit lighter – 1420 kg compared to 1629 kg. The difference is around 209 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Citroen C5 Aircross offers to a small extent more room – 565 L compared to 504 L. That’s a difference of about 61 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Citroen C5 Aircross performs to a small extent better – up to 1668 L, which is about 221 L more than the Nissan Qashqai.

When it comes to payload, Nissan Qashqai slight takes the win – 520 kg compared to 471 kg. That’s a difference of about 49 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Citroen C5 Aircross proves to be is largely superior and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Citroen C5 Aircross is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £29,100
C5 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Citroen C5 Aircross

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Electric, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 145 - 210 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.5 - 5.4 L
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 17 kWh
  • Electric Range : 81 - 520 km

Citroen C5 Aircross

The Citroën C5 Aircross feels like a sofa on wheels, delivering a calm, floaty ride and clever packaging that makes life with luggage and kids noticeably easier. Quirky French styling and a supremely practical, family-focused cabin mean it quietly wins hearts by prioritising comfort over showroom bravado.

details

Nissan Qashqai

The Nissan Qashqai blends practical, family-friendly packaging with SUV styling that refuses to shout, making it a sensible and dependable choice for everyday life. It’s comfortable to live with, economical on the road, and neatly equipped enough to feel modern without ever feeling precious — perfect if you want crossover versatility without the drama.

details
Citroen C5 Aircross
Nissan Qashqai
C5 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media
Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Costs and Consumption

Price
29100 - 41600 £
Price
29600 - 39900 £
Consumption L/100km
2.5 - 5.4 L
Consumption L/100km
4.5 - 6.8 L
Consumption kWh/100km
17 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
81 - 520 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
17.8 - 73 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 - 121 g/km
co2
102 - 154 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
55 L
Fuel tank capacity
55 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1629 - 2184 kg
Curb weight
1420 - 1665 kg
Trunk capacity
565 L
Trunk capacity
479 - 504 L
Length
4650 mm
Length
4425 mm
Width
1870 mm
Width
1835 mm
Height
1695 mm
Height
1625 mm
Max trunk capacity
1668 L
Max trunk capacity
1422 - 1447 L
Payload
446 - 471 kg
Payload
466 - 520 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Electric, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, CVT, Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
145 - 210 HP
Power HP
140 - 205 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.3 - 11.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 10.2 s
Max Speed
170 - 220 km/h
Max Speed
170 - 206 km/h
Torque
230 - 300 Nm
Torque
240 - 330 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
107 - 157 kW
Power kW
103 - 151 kW
Engine capacity
1199 - 1598 cm3
Engine capacity
1332 - 1498 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, A, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
Brand
Citroen
Brand
Nissan
What drive types are available for the Citroen C5 Aircross?

The Citroen C5 Aircross is available as Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.