EVERYTHING about the new C5 is big - even the key fob which seemed to fill the palm of my hand. The designers clearly thought big and it leaves a big impression on you after driving.
So it was a pleasant surprise to find the on the road price for my test vehicle was only £16,615, I would have put the price near £20k.
The new look C5 has only recently arrived in the UK, ushering in a sharp new corporate look.
But it has a lot more to offer than just a major restyling. Under the skin it presents new, innovative technologies, enhanced levels of equipment and three new engines.
At the same time improvements have been made on its refinement, comfort and spaciousness. And, yes, it can give you the shakes - in the most positive sense of the word.
For it has the well publicised new Lane Departure Warning System, which is designed to help prevent accidents caused by tiredness.
This sophisticated technology uses sensors to alert the driver, via vibrating mechanisms in the driver's seat, if the car begins to drift across lanes unintentionally.
Very clever and very new. A clear example of a manufacturer thinking big and leading the way.
Available in both hatchback and estate forms, the new C5 has been designed to meet the demanding safety, comfort and low cost requirements expected by both business and private buyers who are looking for a modern, practical, large family car.
As a man with a large - well at least growing - family, I can vouch that it does the business in this area.
The C5 is recognised as one of the most comfortable rides around. I thought the original C5 was slightly spongy in feeling, but Citroen's sophisticated Hydractive suspension system has now been upgraded.
In addition to lowering the car at speed for improved stability and better fuel consumption, the system is able to adapt to prevailing road conditions, while on some versions a 'Sport' mode allows a more dramatic driving style.
Inside is very plush. The dashboard and centre console have been revised to offer improved refinement and ergonomics.
There are new-style instrument dials and a new centre console housing the hi-fi and air conditioning systems, while a leather steering wheel is now standard.
There have also been substantial developments aimed at reducing cabin noise with, for example, the availability of laminated acoustic side windows - unusual in this class - combining with improved insulation and sound-proofing.
The result is a relaxed, hassle-free driving environment and the relaxed atmosphere is further helped by the specification of automatic air conditioning.
The airy interior also boasts one of the best all-round levels of spaciousness in the sector, including best-in-class elbow room and a 471 litre boot.
This car really does assist the driver and make life so much easier behind the wheel. Citroen pioneered the use of swivelling headlamps and the new look C5 now brings the technology up to date with Xenon Dual Function Directional Headlamps that help eliminate corner blackspots.
Driver well-being is also helped by a speed limiter, again unusual for the class yet standard on most new C5 models, which is designed to prevent the driver from unintentionally breaking any speed limit.
There are front and back parking sensors providing both audible and visual warnings via speakers and a central digital display.
Add to that automatic headlamps, rain-sensitive wipers, a low tyre pressure warning system and a multi-trip computer and it all adds up to a super driving experience.
FAST FACTS
Citroen C5 2.0 HDi 110 VTR
Price: £16,615
Mechanical: 110bhp, 1,997cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 119mph
0-62mph: 11.3 secs
Combined mpg: 50.4
Insurance group: 9
CO2 emissions: 147g/km
BiK rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 3yrs paint; 12yrs anti-rust