CITROEN has taken the wraps off the brand new C5 in Paris.

Following the success of the innovative C4 Picasso, Citroën's new C5 also introduces a range of new features such as a second-generation, fixed-centred controls steering wheel, a seat back massage function and a choice of suspension set-ups.

Set to arrive in the UK in early 2008, the new C5 will ensure that Citroën is strongly represented in the large family car sector, one of the UK's biggest market sectors with over a third of a million sales last year.

With its long, sleek body, sculpted lines and high waist, the new C5's striking styling gives it a true sense of status. The front end is characterised by the large air-intakes and long incisive headlamps that flank the prominent chrome chevrons and assert the C5's identity. From the back, the distinctive concave window and two-part boomerang lights give it a purposeful, determined impression. Longer and wider than the model it replaces, the new C5 has real on-the-road presence, with an aerodynamic profile that alludes to the car's dynamic qualities and accomplished road handling. Measuring 4.78m long (the estate is 5cm longer), 1.86m wide and 1.45m tall, the new C5 imposes itself at the top end of the large family car segment.

The styling is exemplified by the instrument panel design, where annular needles run around each of the dials, allowing an electronic display unit to be integrated in the centre of each dial.

Additionally, a screen on the overhead console displays an illustration on start-up, symbolising the car, its five seats and the seatbelt warnings. The steering wheel has membrane-covered controls, providing easy access to key functions such as the cruise control, radio or telephone.