Citroen launched its new DS5 model late in 2011. It is a high quality five-door compact executive car with its own distinctive style and it is certainly a handsome looking vehicle. The Citroen DS5 somehow combines elements of a sleek coupe, hot hatchback and a load-carrying estate.
The car was built to challenge the German market leaders. And it shows. The build quality is robust and the materials feel high quality, with excellent reliability.
The cabin has a particularly premium feel. Its standard features demonstrate that this is a car destined for the executive sector: you get 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, touchscreen sat-nav, Bluetooth, DAB radio, dual-zone climate control and rear parking sensors on every model. Move up to the Prestige trim level and you'll add xenon headlamps, electric driver's seat and a reversing camera.
There's a choice between fine petrol and diesel power plants, with the range being topped by an ultra-economy diesel-hybrid version with four-wheel drive.
The end result is that the DS5 range offers a swift, stylish and unique car, with a spacious cabin and versatile load-carrying practicality that does several different jobs very well indeed.
If you're interested in a value-for-money buy, a second-hand DS5 is hard to beat. You can find a great selection at Motors.co.uk, with searches driven by your desired price and location.