ALTHOUGH Citroen has recently developed a happy knack for creating quite quirky small cars, the French car maker does have other strings to its bow.

One such asset is the latest C5 which comes in saloon and estate car form.

Launched in 2008 and in refreshed form from January this year, Citroen's big guy is definitely one to notice these days in the upper medium sector.

Compared to its predecessor, quality is exceptionally good and the 'toute ensemble' is very well put together both inside and out.

In addition, there is a big improvement in driveability for everyone on board to enjoy a car which has successfully majored in the pursuit of silent running.

Driven here is the range topping C5 Exclusive model which comes powered by a 3.0-litre V6 240bhp petrol engine.

This big Citroen is exceedingly comfortable and the range topping model also comes with a list of standard kit which has been created to compete with large saloon cars produced by the more expensive members of the Germanic competition.

Included in the equipment manifest of this top ranking Citroen is a high order of standard extras which include the likes of dual zone air con, electric parking brake with hill start assist, rear parking sensors, cruise control and RDS multi speaker  sound system with steering wheel mounted audio controls, plus Bluetooth and USB socket.

Safety points include seven airbags and tyre pressure monitor while highly effective ABS braking with electronic brake force distribution is on hand and the electronic stability programme includes intelligent traction control to aid performance.

Part leather upholstery adds further quality to the C5 Exclusive model along with electrically adjustable front seats.

Build quality is impressive in the C5 and, in a roomy cabin where headroom will perhaps not entirely suit all six-foot plus rear seat passengers, knee and shoulder room is pretty good. The rear seat bench will manage to cope quite comfortably with three decent sized adults.

However, while there are a number of  hidy holes on board, the boot of the C5 saloon at 439 litres is not quite as accommodating as its hatchback predecessor.

Inside the car is well appointed with the cluster of controls on the fixed hub steering wheel enabling drivers to carry out a range of functions while still keeping hands on the wheel and eyes on the road - a good safety aspect.

Powered by a V6 engine with 240bhp under foot paired with a six-speed slick switching automatic gearbox the long wheel-based C5 handles well for a big, roomy car while the Hydractive 3+ self levelling suspension set-up delivers some very high quality ride comfort.

The system also monitors speed and road conditions for optimum ride comfort while, at 70mph, Hydractive 3+ lowers the car to optimise stability and fuel economy.

Although perhaps not quite the sharpest when it comes to steering the C5 does do its very best work as a long distance, high speed cruiser, effortlessly eating up the miles in refined and relaxed manner.