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Citroen C5 Aircross vs Vauxhall Frontera comparison

Compare performance (225 HP vs 145 HP), boot space and price (29,100 £ vs 20,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Citroen C5 Aircross or Vauxhall Frontera?

Citroen C5 Aircross vs Vauxhall Frontera: Key differences

Citroen C5 Aircross

3.9 (4 Reviews)
rate
  • markedly more power
  • considerably more efficient
  • clearly more electric range
  • marginally quicker 0–100 km/h
  • slightly more trunk space
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Vauxhall Frontera

4.5 (4 Reviews)
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  • significantly cheaper
  • only slightly more efficient
  • moderately lighter
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

C5 Aircross

Citroen C5 Aircross vs Opel Frontera: An In-Depth Comparison

When it comes to choosing an SUV or off-roader, the decision often boils down to individual brand preferences, design aesthetics, and engine capabilities. In this comparative analysis, we delve into the technical specifications and innovations of two contenders: the Citroen C5 Aircross and the Opel Frontera. Both models present unique features, but which one aligns better with your expectations? Let’s find out.

Frontera

Design and Dimensions

The Citroen C5 Aircross stands at 4500 mm in length, 1859 mm in width, and 1688 mm in height, offering a spacious and comfortable interior for up to five passengers. It boasts a trunk capacity of 580 liters, ideal for families and adventurers alike.

On the other hand, the Opel Frontera measures slightly smaller at 4385 mm in length and 1795 mm in width, with a height of 1635 mm. This off-roader offers seating for five to seven passengers, fitted with a trunk capacity of 460 liters, accommodating every passenger’s needs while still providing practical storage options.

C5 Aircross

Powertrains and Performance

The Citroen C5 Aircross offers an impressive range of engine options including diesel, petrol MHEV, and plug-in hybrid variants, with power outputs ranging from 131 HP to a robust 224 HP. The maximum torque can reach up to 360 Nm, promising confident acceleration and smooth drives. Fuel consumption is economical, with ratings between 1.4 to 5.6 L/100km and a maximum electric range of 58 km for hybrid variants.

In contrast, the Opel Frontera features petrol MHEV and electric engine options producing between 100 HP and 136 HP. With torque peaking at 230 Nm, the Frontera delivers decent performance, although it may not match the C5 Aircross’s capabilities. Nevertheless, it offers an extensive electric range of 305 km for its electric model, plus reasonable fuel efficiency at 5.5 L/100 km.

Frontera

Transmission and Driving Experience

The Citroen C5 Aircross benefits from an automatic transmission with options like a dual-clutch gearbox, ensuring smooth gear shifts and efficient power delivery. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 8.9 seconds, with top speeds reaching up to 225 km/h, making it a dynamic choice for urban and highway driving.

Meanwhile, the Opel Frontera also comes with an automatic transmission and a reduction gearbox, which enhances its off-road performance. It achieves 0 to 100 km/h in 9 to 12.1 seconds depending on the variant, with top speeds capped around 190 km/h. While it cannot quite match the C5 Aircross in terms of acceleration, it offers capability where it matters off the beaten path.

C5 Aircross

Efficiency and Environmental Impact

The Citroen C5 Aircross is available in various configurations, allowing for customization in CO2 emissions, ranging from 32 g/km for hybrid models to 144 g/km for the standard petrol variants. The efficiency class ranges from B to E, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to eco-friendly driving options.

In comparison, the Opel Frontera has a CO2 emission range from 0 g/km for the electric variant to 126 g/km for petrol options, achieving a better environmental efficiency class with A to D ratings. This makes it an appealing option for consumers mindful of their carbon footprint and those interested in adopting electric mobility.

Frontera

Conclusion

Ultimately, both the Citroen C5 Aircross and Opel Frontera offer unique advantages tailored to different preferences and driving needs. The C5 Aircross shines with its powerful engine options, spacious design, and advanced hybrid technology, while the Frontera excels in electric mobility and off-road capabilities.

Choosing between these two vehicles will largely depend on whether you prioritize urban efficiency and performance or off-road prowess and electric driving range. Regardless, both models are poised to make strides in the automotive landscape for the 2024 model year.

Frequently compared as well

Citroen C3 Aircross
Opel Frontera
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In a head-to-head comparison, the Citroen C3 Aircross showcases its compact versatility and modern styling, appealing to urban drivers seeking practicality without compromising on flair. On the other hand, the Opel Frontera offers rugged capability and a robust design, perfect for those craving …
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

C5 Aircross

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Vauxhall Frontera is significantly cheaper – starting at 20,700 £ , while the Citroen C5 Aircross costs 29,100 £ . That’s a price difference of around 8,400 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Citroen C5 Aircross uses 2.5 L/100km and is considerably more efficient than the Vauxhall Frontera with 5.2 L/100km. The difference is about 2.7 L/100km.

In terms of energy consumption, the Vauxhall Frontera is only slightly more efficient: consuming 15.8 kWh/100km compared to 17 kWh/100km for the Citroen C5 Aircross. That’s a difference of about 1.2 kWh/100km.

As for electric range, the Citroen C5 Aircross offers clearly more range – reaching up to 520 km, about 112 km more than the Vauxhall Frontera.

Frontera

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Citroen C5 Aircross offers markedly more power – delivering 225 HP compared to 145 HP. That’s roughly 80 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Citroen C5 Aircross is marginally quicker – completing the sprint in 8.3 s, while the Vauxhall Frontera takes 9.1 s. That’s about 0.8 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Citroen C5 Aircross delivers visibly more torque with 300 Nm compared to 230 Nm. That’s about 70 Nm more.

C5 Aircross

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Seats: Vauxhall Frontera offers more seats – 7 vs 5.

In terms of curb weight, Vauxhall Frontera is moderately lighter – 1,394 kg compared to 1,629 kg. The difference is around 235 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Citroen C5 Aircross offers slightly more boot space – 565 L compared to 460 L. That’s a difference of about 105 L.

When it comes to payload, the Vauxhall Frontera carries slightly more – 570 kg compared to 471 kg. That’s a difference of about 99 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Citroen C5 Aircross is decisively ahead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £29,100
C5 Aircross

Citroen C5 Aircross

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Electric, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 145 - 225 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.5 - 5.4 L/100km
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 17 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range : 81 - 520 km
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Citroen C5 Aircross
Vauxhall Frontera

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

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.

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Reviews Citroen C5 Aircross

3.9 (4 Reviews)
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Jan Hansen
10 Apr 2026, 21:38:06

It's a pleasant car; it's not coarse or brutal. As a 60-year-old, I don't need acceleration or top speed.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Leisure / Weekend driver
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
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Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
privat
27 Mar 2026, 16:55:05

Cars like the C5 Aircross are probably one reason why Stellantis is almost bankrupt — or already is.
Uncomfortable and completely unsuitable for long-distance driving.
Huge on the outside, small on the inside.
Extremely uncomfortable seats, poor infotainment, very bad driver aids (360° camera, cruise control, lane-keep assist, navigation… are really awful), confusing, poor road manners, loud engine and noisy wind.
I can only hope that I’ll never again be forced to drive this vehicle.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Company car / Business
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
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Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Alexis vasquez
15 Feb 2026, 21:03:58

I find the Citroën better suited to my daily driving — more comfortable and efficient, with a softer suspension compared with the firmer Toyota Cross.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

Vauxhall Frontera

The Opel Frontera wears its rugged, go-anywhere intentions proudly, serving up a simple, no-nonsense package that feels as comfortable off the beaten track as it does at the supermarket. It won’t set hearts racing with glamour, but its honest practicality and rugged charm make it a smart pick for buyers who prefer substance over style.

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NewOpelFronteraElectric (2)
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Reviews Vauxhall Frontera

4.5 (4 Reviews)
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Gilbert
14 Apr 2026, 08:19:17

I bought the Opel Frontera GS 145PS after also testing the VW T‑Roc; so far I've driven about 5,800 km in it.

My purchase decision was based on the following criteria:
- modern design that stands out from the crowd
- low fuel consumption
- very good seats and plenty of space front and rear
- large, practical boot
- good performance characteristics
- very easy to get into
- simple controls, partly with physical buttons
- clear, well‑laid‑out cockpit

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
H. P.
19 Dec 2025, 13:27:19

Opel has clearly skimped here. Misaligned panel gaps, no position/parking light, patchy workmanship and ill‑fitting parts — for example the partition between the passenger footwell and the engine bay — the owner's manual is inadequate and at times reads like a fairy tale; many of the functions it describes are nowhere to be found. They simply don't exist. And the claimed fuel consumption? Even with normal driving — that is, without acceleration orgies — it's unattainable.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Leisure / Weekend driver
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
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In the world of compact SUVs, the Citroën C3 Aircross stands out with its playful design and nimble handling, appealing to urban drivers seeking versatility and style. In contrast, the Citroën C5 Aircross offers a more spacious interior and a focus on comfort, making it ideal for families or those …
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When comparing the Citroen C5 Aircross to the Vauxhall Grandland, both SUVs offer distinct advantages in terms of comfort and practicality. The Citroen C5 Aircross stands out with its unique suspension system and plush seating, providing a highly comfortable ride that is well-suited for long …
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Vauxhall Frontera

Costs and Consumption
Price
29,100 - 43,000 £
Price
20,700 - 30,000 £
Consumption L/100km
2.5 - 5.4 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
5.2 - 5.3 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
17 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
15.8 - 18.3 kWh/100km
Electric Range
81 - 520 km
Electric Range
308 - 408 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 - 121 g/km
co2
0 - 119 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5 - 7
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,629 - 2,184 kg
Curb weight
1,394 - 1,610 kg
Trunk capacity
565 L
Trunk capacity
460 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,870 mm
Width
1,795 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
446 - 471 kg
Payload
436 - 570 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Electric, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Electric, Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
145 - 225 HP
Power HP
110 - 145 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.3 - 11.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 14.2 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
230 - 300 Nm
Torque
125 - 230 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
3
Power kW
107 - 165 kW
Power kW
81 - 107 kW
Engine capacity
1,199 - 1,598 cm3
Engine capacity
1,199 cm3

General
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, A, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
A, D
Brand
Citroen
Brand
Vauxhall
Is the Citroen C5 Aircross offered with different drivetrains?

The Citroen C5 Aircross is offered with Front-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.