"Hydractive III +" Electronically Controlled Suspension

"Hydractive III +" Electronically Controlled Suspension
The suspension adapts automatically and instantly to the different driving styles and road profile, providing the best balance between passenger comfort and the vehicle's road holding.
It alternates between a soft suspension setting and a firm setting, maximising comfort while constantly ensuring the best possible safety.
It also automatically corrects ground clearance according to the load and driving conditions.
In addition, the "Hydractive III +" suspension lets you choose between two suspension modes.
The suspension mode can be changed with the vehicle moving or stationary by pressing control A.
Instrument panel displayThe selected suspension mode is shown on the instrument panel display.
Normal mode
This mode favours soft damping for maximum comfort.
If the permitted speed for a position is exceeded, the vehicle automatically returns to the normal driving position.
SPORT mode
This mode favours dynamic driving.
The indicator light on control A comes on, in addition to the message on the instrument panel display.
SPORT mode is retained when the engine is switched off.
Vehicle positions
Vehicle positions Position changes can only be made with the engine running.
The adjustable ground clearance suits all types of situation. Apart from a few specific cases, driving in normal position remains essential.
- Press one of the adjustment controls once.
The change of position is indicated by a message on the instrument panel display.

Maximum height
Wheel change (Not possible if speed > 10 km/h).

Maximum height Intermediate position
Increases ground clearance (Not possible if speed > 40 km/h).
To be used on difficult tracks at reduced speed and on car park ramps.
Intermediate position Normal position
If the permitted speed for a position is exceeded, the vehicle automatically returns to the normal position.
Normal position Minimum height
To assist with loading or unloading the vehicle.
Workshop check.
Do not use in normal driving (Not possible if speed > 10 km/h).
Minimum height Position not permitted
Position not permitted
The instrument panel display temporarily shows a message indicating that the adjustment is not possible.
The vehicle remains in the permitted position and the instrument panel display shows this position.
Automatic ground clearance variation
- If the speed exceeds 110 km/h on a good road, ground clearance is lowered. The vehicle returns to normal position if the road deteriorates or if the speed falls below 90 km/h.
- At low and medium speeds, if the road is poor, ground clearance is increased. The vehicle returns to normal position as soon as conditions allow.
- When the ignition is switched off, ground clearance is lowered to the parking position.
Test yourself
A quick Citroen C5 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.