Having driven the new cars on the rough roads surrounding Hartebeestpoort Dam recently, the suspension stood out as the most outstanding feature I have ever encountered - it virtually soaks up road imperfections and allows the car to float over the roughest surfaces.

The electronic stability control effortlessly and swiftly allows one to correct the vehicle's course should it step out of line. The car exudes confidence in tackling tight bends with obstacles such as bumps or loose gravel, which could upset the cars attitude. It is claimed that this type of suspension is in use in sports car racing in the USA.

The early Citro"n ID 19 and DS 21 models first appeared in East London in 1959 and were considered far ahead of their time. They featured hydractive suspension along with swiveling headlights and the height of the car was easily adjusted by simply moving a lever.

Hydraulic suspension, however, which was in its infancy, needed expensive maintenance. The inboard disc brakes were well positioned for cooling but vulnerable to obstacles.

Inside, the futuristic and ugly single spoke steering wheel of the earlier models has been replaced on the C5 by a four spoke wheel with airbag. There are four stalks to control indicators, speed, lights, trip computer and radio. I felt satellite control on the wheel would have been preferable to the array of stalks.

The instrument cluster is comprehensive and unobtrusive and includes a centre console housing with his and hers air-conditioning controls. The centre console controls, however, are a bit confusing, but familiarity and understanding the ergonomics would come with time.

Seats lacked side support giving the feeling of sitting on them instead of in them but were very comfortable.

The 3-litre V6 engine pushing out some 152kW through a Tiptronic gearbox is equipped with six forward ratios. The gearbox and drive train is incredibly smooth, and the combination of responsive throttle made it a pleasure to use.

On turning the key you have the choice of setting ride height depending on terrain. Floor the loud pedal and you are punched back in your seat and on your way to 100km/h in 8,6 secs. With a claimed top speed of 230km/h this one is no slouch.

There is a full range of electronic driving aids which take immediate action in difficult situations. ABS and electronic brake force distribution (EBD) are assisted by emergency braking, further reducing stopping distance. In the event of loss of grip, ESP automatically puts the car back on course and limits skidding by means of ASR traction-control. Front and rear ends are equipped with sensors to facilitate parking.

The majority of drivers today are blissfully unaware of these driver aids, which is a problem. We suggest they be demonstrated to prospective buyers - something that could go a long way to improving road safety here.

Following on the power and comfort of the V6 it was time to sample the 2.0 litre 16V manual. This model has virtually all standard appointments of the 3 litre. Its 4-cylinder 16-valve DOHC engine develops 103kW with 0-100 acceleration in 9,1 seconds and a top speed of 210km/h - more than adequate. An automatic gearbox version is also available and a diesel engine will be available here during the last quarter the year.

The 2 litre manual C5 model would be my choice, giving the best value for money if compared to other cars in its class.

Prices are: Citro"n C5 3,0 litre auto R299000; 2,0 litre manual R215000.

Some competitors: Peugeot 407 2,0 ST R218000; Volvo S40 2,4i R227000; Renault Laguna 2,0 R234000; Mercedes-Benz C180K R245000; BMW 320i 2,0
R246000.