Citroen C5 Aircross vs Jeep Compass: Should You Pick French Or American?

Citroen will soon kickstart its Indian ops with the C5 Aircross premium midsize SUV. Prices, to be revealed in March, could range between Rs 28 lakh and Rs 30 lakh (ex-showroom), putting it in the ballpark of the top-spec Jeep Compass Model S. We have done a detailed on-paper comparison of both the models to see which SUV is the better offering in the segment. 

Dimensions

Clearly, the C5 Aircross is a size bigger in all aspects when compared to the Jeep Compass. The Citroen also comes with a longer wheelbase, certainly resulting in better legroom for rear seat occupants. Both SUVs stand on 18-inch alloys wheels which are apt for our roads, though they will be pricey when the time comes for replacement.

Features

Common features include LED headlamps and tail lamps, touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, a digital driver’s display, powered driver’s seat, keyless entry with push button start, and auto headlamps and wipers. 

While essentials are covered, the Compass goes the extra mile and packs equipment like connected car tech, a wireless phone charger, and a powered tailgate. 

The Citroen, on the other hand, comes with parallel park assist (you only have to control the pedals, while it steers itself) and three individual rear seats that can be reclined, slid or even folded down to liberate more boot space. The seats in the C5 also come with memory foam! 

Safety Features

Common safety features include six airbags, ABS with EBD, parking sensors, a parking camera, electronic stability control, a tyre pressure monitor, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. While the Citroen comes with front parking sensors, the Compass features a 360-degree parking camera. 

Engines 

Both models come with a 2.0-litre diesel engine, however, the C5 Aircross is 5PS and 50Nm more powerful than the Compass. While both come with automatic transmissions, the Compass can also be had with a 6-speed manual transmission with a FWD setup. 

The Jeep can also be specced with an all-wheel drive system, however, only the Compass’ diesel automatic variants come with an AWD setup. The Citroen drives its front wheels only. 

Those who want a petrol engine have no other choice but to pick up the Jeep Compass. It’s offered with a 162PS 1.4-litre petrol engine that can be had with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. 

Verdict

The C5 Aircross definitely has a lot going for it. The SUV comes loaded with features, has a powerful 2.0-litre diesel engine, and should be one of the comfiest SUVs in its segment. But the tiny dealer network doesn’t do any favours and at an expected starting price of Rs 28 lakh (ex-showroom), it ain’t cheap as well. But the Citroen will be the more exclusive offering and that could appeal if you want to stand out.