Contrary to what one might have thought, Citroen not only plans to launch a successor to the C5, but it also promises to give it a dramatic new design as part of its revamped range of models.
Despite the steady decline of midsize car sales in Europe, the French automaker is convinced that offering a different style will remain relevant, according to Richard Meyer, Citroen’s head of future products who spoke to Automotive News.
“The sedan will remain key in the automotive world, but Citroen wants to give a different expectation.” Meyer said. “We will have a very specific and unique answer to the sedan.”
The French automaker stopped production of the C5 in Europe last year, and it currently available only in China, where it’s produced at PSA’s Wuhan factory operated with joint venture partner Dongfeng.
Citroen has a strong history in offering different-looking sedans, including the DS from the 1960s, the 1970s CX and the C6 premium executive sedan offered from 2005 to 2012.
The company’s CEO, Linda Jackson, said last year that despite the increasing demand for SUVs, sedans will always have a role to play: “Between C and D (compact and midsize) there is still an opportunity in China and in Europe.”
Sister car maker Peugeot also continues to support the midsize sedan class with the new 508, the estate version of which was launched earlier this week.
Jackson had also stated that Citroen would reveal its new sedan after launching a pair of SUVs, namely the C5 Aircross that will arrive in Europe this December and the smaller C3 Aircross, which is already on sale.
Note: CXperience Concept pictured