CITROEN C5 2.2 HDI 16V VTR+ 4dr (2008)

Yes, it is a genuine alternative to the Germans

I was one of those drawn in by the adverts that claimed the C5 was up there with it's German counterparts from the likes of BMW and Audi and I have to say, it is pretty much true.

I've had Citroens before and one of the things I've always moaned about is the build quality but I must confess, it seems times have changed because Citroen has got it sussed with the C5 and it really is capable of standing up to the Germans, its very robust and deals with a fair bit of abuse without giving in. Favourite thing about the interior? Got to be the seats you get with the VTR+ trim, they're really comfortable and uber-adjustable. I think space is generally quite good all round, just be aware that style was higher on the list of priorities than rear headroom, but it isn't that bad. Loads of kit and reasonable to run, 40mpg most of the time.

I tested most of the German clan before I decided on this and I must confess, the ride is as good as all of them, it really is. Admittedly, it isn't a 'performance-orientated' car, its much more suited to 'wafting' around but its incredibly refined, I'd say it matches many Germans even further up the classes.

There is no escaping that the C5 is French, the badge says so. But, when I had the choice (and the money) to buy a 3-Series or an A4, I came straight to the C5, what does that tell you?