Citroën C6
2005€2012
IF YOU WANT to avoid the obvious German executive smokers, the Citroën C6 is like an automotive pack of Gitanes. It’s not wilfully different for the sake of it, though – the C6 makes a strong case as stylish luxury transport in its own right.
Produced from 2005 to 2012, today it still looks otherworldly, and channels the spirit of DS with its short-tail/long-bonnet proportions. Three basic engines were offered: a 215bhp 3.0-litre V6, 208bhp 2.7 V6 HDI (later upgraded to 3.0 litres with 240bhp) and a 173bhp 2.2-litre fourcylinder diesel.
Entry-level, Lignage and Exclusive trim levels were available, but all got cruise control, auto headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, heated/folding mirrors and dualzone air-con.
CAR subscriber Shaun Lilley owns an immaculate Exclusive, one of just 32 3.0-litre HDIs sold here. The interior immediately sets the tone for a relaxed drive: hugely comfortable seats, door bins like a high-end desk and – optionally in this car – TGV-style reclining rear seats fit for a president.
Riding on Hydractive 3+ suspension (an evolution of the long-running hydropneumatic system), the drive lives up to those first impressions: the chassis floats serenely (though the secondary ride can fidget), the steering is slow, light and oddly remote, and even with the 3.0-litre diesel engine, acceleration is sufficient rather than generous. The C6 is always fabulously refined, though, and its nebulous feedback instantly soothes your temperament, like you’re driving while mildly sedated. I like it.
Only 900 Citroën C6s came to the UK, with around 700 still on the road. Of the 16 we found advertised, all were diesel, the cheapest at £2900 with 190k miles on the clock. Prices typically start in the mid £3ks, while £6k opens the door to nicely equipped examples with around 60k miles.
The C6 isn’t for everyone, but limited supply and a keen following should ensure values stay strong once the abused examples have disappeared.