There’s a good choice of petrol and diesel engines in the C5 Tourer range. The entry-level engine is the 1.8-litre petrol with 127bhp while the more powerful 143bhp 2.0-litre unit is available with an optional four-speed automatic gearbox. Both offer adequate performance but they’re outshone by the excellent range of diesels. First up is the 1.6 HDi with 110bhp which although not particularly quick, returns 50mpg.

However our choice is the 138bhp 2.0 HDi which offers better in-gear punch for overtaking and is almost as frugal. For even more pace there’s also a 2.2 HDi unit with 173bhp while the range-topping model is the 2.7-litre V6 diesel with 208bhp – although it’s only available with an automatic gearbox. In mid-2009 this was replaced by a 3.0 HDi V6 engine with 240bhp, helping it accelerate smoothly from 0-62mph in 8.2 seconds.

Despite being more powerful, it’s actually better on fuel with an average economy of 38mpg beating than the 2.7 HDi’s 34mpg. CO2 emissions are also lower – down to 195g/km – meaning cheaper road tax. It’s only available with a six-speed automatic and it works well with barely noticeable gear changes. In November 2009 a new 2.0 HDi with 160bhp was added to the line-up, replacing both the previous 2.0 HDi and 2.2 HDi units.

It manages the 0-62mph sprint in 9.3 seconds while economy is an impressive 50mpg. It’s also available with a six-speed automatic, although choosing this sees economy drop considerably to 41mpg.

Like the saloon, the C5 Tourer is happiest cruising on the motorway where it will cover long distances with minimal fuss and maximum comfort. The Citroen is unusual as it comes with a choice of two different suspension settings – entry-level SX models are conventional but higher spec models come with a ‘hydropneumatic’ self-levelling system designed to give added comfort.

Most buyers will find it difficult to notice any difference but the air suspension does have a ‘sport’ setting which firms things up for more twisting roads. There’s still some body roll in corners but the C5 corners with confidence and offers plenty of grip. It’s a shame that the steering feels overly light but this does make town driving and tight manoeuvres a doddle.