HOW time goes by! It seems not that long ago since Citroen was recognised as the leader of the proverbial pack of the "quirky car" genre.

But times change and with the introduction of the DS5 the French car maker is making further inroads into the big time.

Once again targeting the dominant German big saloons, this is the third DS offering from Citroen and it's also, designed to  go up against the likes of the Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Insignia.

Coming with some very distinctive styling both inside and out the DS5 offers something completely different in its broad shouldered, high standing shape which tapers at the rear to add look of even further strength to an already positive stance on the tarmac.

Driven here is the DS5 DStyle HDi six-speed manual powered by a sensible 161bhp 2.0-litre diesel power source.

It brings to the cockpit some generous urge while a  good range of driver's seat and steering wheel adjustment points the easy way to find a comfortable driving position within a decidedly well put together and thoughtfully appointed cabin.

Drivers will immediately note they are presiding over quite a hard ride and while sportiness is perhaps not this car's major forte and steering appears to be somewhat on the vague side, comfortably supportive seats do help to smooth out progress.

Also on the plus side the glass roof adds to the feeling of spaciousness on board. However, while it does perhaps impinge on rear headroom somewhat, there is a quite adequate stowage area of some 468 litres available.

Generous levels of kit are to be found on board, the entry level D Sign model coming with electric windows all round, six-speaker stereo and mp3 compatible CD player, cruise control, keyless entry and start up, plus there is dual zone climate control while DStyle trim employed here includes the likes of satellite navigation and part leather upholstery, while the range topping D Sport delivers full leather, electrically adjustable sports seats and xenon directional headlights.

Inside there is a fine array of switchgear to experience and driver safety aids are generous. Also on the manifest are the likes of ESP, traction control and hill start assist.

The DS5 is surprisingly well insulated resulting in a quiete mature performance on the road while the very fine diesel delivers a generous 50-plus mpg.

Overall, this extremely handsome head turner from Citroen features much to offer the discerning driver, not least its surprisingly able performance for what is, after all, a pretty large car.