Dacia Bigster vs Citroen C5 Aircross: Value SUV Showdown

In the competitive world of family SUVs, budget-conscious buyers often seek vehicles that balance cost, space, and modern tech. The Dacia Bigster Hybrid Journey and Citroen C5 Aircross Hybrid You! stand out as two strong contenders under £31,000, both offering hybrid powertrains for efficiency and practicality for daily family life. This comparison dives deep into their strengths, revealing how Dacia’s no-frills approach challenges Citroen’s comfort-oriented design.

Powertrain and Performance Breakdown

Both models employ self-charging hybrid systems, but their engineering differs significantly. The Dacia Bigster uses a 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a 50bhp electric motor and a larger 1.4kWh battery, delivering 153bhp total. This setup propels it from 0-62mph in 9.7 seconds, with real-world testing yielding 50.5mpg—outpacing many rivals.

In contrast, the Citroen C5 Aircross relies on a smaller 1.2-litre three-cylinder hybrid with 143bhp and a 0.88kWh battery. It takes 11.2 seconds to reach 62mph and managed 42.1mpg in tests. The Bigster’s bigger battery and dedicated drive motor provide snappier acceleration, especially during overtakes, making it feel more responsive on motorways.

The Dacia’s Renault-derived hybrid shines in efficiency and punch, while the Citroen’s setup prioritizes smoothness over outright speed.

Design and Dimensions: Size vs Substance

Measuring 4.57m long, the Dacia Bigster adopts a boxy, rugged stance with chunky cladding and roof rails, emphasizing versatility for active lifestyles. Its 1.81m height and 1.67m width contribute to a commanding presence.

The Citroen C5 Aircross, slightly shorter at around 4.5m and taller at 1.689m, features sleeker lines and a more urban-friendly profile. Both are front-wheel-drive SUVs with 1,000kg towing capacity, but the Bigster’s design hints at better off-road pretensions despite lacking 4×4.

• Bigster advantages: Wider track for stability, purposeful styling.
• C5 Aircross edges: More aerodynamic shape, potentially quieter at speed.

Interior Comfort and Space Evaluation

Despite the Citroen’s larger exterior footprint in some dimensions, the Dacia Bigster surprises with superior interior packaging. Rear legroom feels more generous, and the boot offers 612 litres—47 litres more than the C5 Aircross’s 565 litres (expandable to 1,937L vs 1,630L).

Both provide adjustable rear benches, airy cabins with high roofs, and decent storage. The Citroen excels in shoulder room and wide door bins, while Dacia’s narrow but deep pockets suit bottles. Materials in the Bigster use recycled fabrics effectively, avoiding a cheap feel, paired with soft-touch surfaces.

Front seats in both are supportive; Citroen’s advanced comfort seats absorb lumps better, but Dacia’s hold you firmly during spirited drives. Headroom and visibility are ample in both, ideal for families.

Driving Dynamics: Ride, Handling, and Refinement

Dacia Bigster’s hybrid system delivers seamless transitions, with electric boost aiding low-speed maneuvers. Its 19-inch wheels transmit some road harshness, but overall handling is composed, with a 11.0m turning circle matching urban needs.

Citroen’s progressive hydraulic suspension cushions imperfections superbly, earning praise for wafting comfort on long trips. However, its softer setup leads to more body roll in corners, and the smaller engine feels strained under load. Noise levels are low in both, though Dacia’s larger engine is smoother.

For motorway cruising, Bigster’s efficiency and stability win; city drivers may prefer Citroen’s pillow-like ride.

Technology and Safety Features Compared

Dacia Journey trim includes adaptive cruise, blind-spot monitoring, keyless entry, wireless charging, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Safety kit matches Citroen, with five-star Euro NCAP potential from shared platforms.

Citroen You! offers similar tech: 10-inch display, nav, parking sensors, but lacks some Bigster luxuries like heated seats standard. Both have traffic sign recognition and lane-keeping aids.

• Shared: Auto emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert.
• Dacia extras: Auto wipers, parking pack.
• Citroen perks: Massaging seats (optional).

Running Costs and Ownership Experience

Starting at £29,740, the Bigster undercuts the £30,495 C5 Aircross. Better residuals (59% vs 52% after 3 years) and lower CO2 make Dacia cheaper to run, with £195 VED for both. Fuel savings from 50.5mpg vs 42.1mpg add up.

Warranties: Dacia’s 3 years/60,000 miles vs Citroen’s 3/100,000. Service intervals align at 12 months. Payload is higher in Citroen (546kg vs 453kg), but kerb weight favors Dacia at 1,487kg.

Real-World Practicality for Families

Boot access is easier in Dacia (lower lip at 725mm vs 765mm), with longer floor (1,055mm). Both swallow pushchairs and shopping effortlessly, but Bigster’s flat load area suits bulky items like bikes.

Rear space accommodates three child seats, with ISOFIX points. Citroen’s panoramic roof option brightens the cabin more.

Pros and Cons Summary

Dacia Bigster Hybrid Journey

• Pros: Superior efficiency, quicker acceleration, larger boot, better value.
• Cons: Firmer ride on big wheels, narrower door bins.

Citroen C5 Aircross Hybrid You!

• Pros: Plush ride comfort, more shoulder room, refined cabin.
• Cons: Thirstier engine, slower performance, smaller boot.

Final Verdict: Why Dacia Takes the Crown

The Dacia Bigster edges victory with its potent hybrid, roomier boot, stronger residuals, and generous kit at a lower price. It proves budget doesn’t mean basic, offering family-hauling prowess without frills overload. Citroen remains a comfort king for those prioritizing softness over efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has better fuel economy?

Dacia Bigster at 50.5mpg tested vs Citroen’s 42.1mpg.

Is the Dacia Bigster bigger inside?

Yes, with more boot space (612L) and legroom despite similar sizes.

Can they tow?

Both handle 1,000kg braked trailers.

What’s the warranty like?

Dacia: 3yrs/60k miles; Citroen: 3yrs/100k miles.

Suitable for off-road?

Neither is true 4×4, but Bigster’s ground clearance (243mm) aids light duties.