New 2021 Citroen SUV previewed in exclusive images

• Electric, petrol and hybrid versions likely
• Some styling details shared with new C4
• Will get crossover styling

The next new Citroen won’t be a traditional saloon or hatchback but will blend styling characteristics from several different body styles. Our exclusive images, based on recent spy shots, show that the new car will take on a crossover look, despite being an indirect replacement for the brand’s previous large saloon.

Citroen is expected to reintroduce either the C5 (as distinct from the existing C5 Aircross) or C6 nameplate for a car that will partly be influenced by 2016’s Cxperience concept car. We’ve seen touches from that car introduced on a number of recent models, namely the facelifted C3 and C3 Aircross, as well as the brand-new Citroen C4. The C4 is a rival to conventional family hatchbacks like the Ford Focus but has a taller stance.

Just like the C4, the Citroen C5 will capitalise on the SUV craze with crossover-inspired styling. It may get plastic body cladding and silver-painted scuff plates, while the light clusters at each end also look like those fitted to the C4.

The official reveal of the new car is expected in the next few months, and its arrival in dealerships could occur before the end of the year.

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The 2021 Citroen crossover will sit on a version of the platform that underpins the Vauxhall Grandland X and Peugeot 508, as well as the Citroen C5 Aircross SUV. All of these cars are available as plug-in hybrids, so this seems a likely engine choice for the as-yet-unnamed model. Citroen’s familiar 1.2-litre petrol engine may also feature, while a 1.5-litre diesel model may still be sold - even though sales are likely to be small.

Citroen is now producing electric commercial vehicles on the same platform as the cars mentioned above, and we would be very surprised if the new car didn’t come with the option of a pure-electric powertrain. This version would be badged the Citroen e-C5 or e-C6, and may use a more powerful electric motor than the 134bhp version fitted in the Peugeot e-208.

Do you want to know more about the latest Citroen models? Read our reviews of the Citroen C5 Aircross and C3 Aircross.