The high waistline, ribbed panels, C6-style concave rear window and sleek, aerodynamic profile help to communicate the Citroën C5 Airscape’s exclusive status, while the distinctive exterior design is further enhanced by the 19-inch alloys, large air-intakes, twin chrome tailpipes and long incisive headlamps.

Without question, one of the 4-seater C5 Airscape’s defining characteristics is the automatically folding top. Complete with integrated sunroof and textile lining, this carbon-fibre roof resembles a canvas one, a feature so suggestive of up-market cabriolets.

It opens to reveal a sumptuous interior of dark-brown leather and chrome, reflecting the refined and sophisticated nature of the car. The clean, sculpted lines of the dashboard sit alongside the stylish design of the instrument cluster and air vents, while Citroën’s concept is also equipped with a new-style fixed centred controls steering wheel, incorporating touch-sensitive buttons enveloped in a thin membrane-like covering.

The latest in a line of Citroën concepts, the C5 Airscape showcases important and innovative technology. Fuel economy is managed by an ‘UrbanHybrid’ system that includes a reversible alternator-starter and super capacitors. This system allows onboard equipment, such as the air conditioning or audio system, to be powered by energy recovered during braking and deceleration, while engine torque can be temporarily boosted when required.

The ‘UrbanHybrid’ system, which helps reduce CO2 emissions by 24 g/km on the combined cycle, also switches off the engine when the vehicle is at standstill, before starting it again instantly once the accelerator is pressed.  The fitting of a refined, bio-diesel compliant 2.7 HDi V6 engine, complete with particulate filter, further minimises any impact on the environment.