Iltalehti recently tested the new Citroën C5 Aircross Hybrid, a mid-size SUV, and discovered a strange defect during the test drive. Conducted in Finland, this evaluation marked the first instance of a domestic outlet getting behind the wheel before the car's official launch. In cold weather, they found that activating the windshield heating feature distorted the driver's view, raising concerns about safety and visibility while driving in harsh winter conditions.

The defect came to light during the test in freezing temperatures, prompting the drivers to use the heating elements in the seats, steering wheel, and windshield for comfort and to defrost the glass. However, rather than improving visibility, the heated windshield generated a visual distortion, making it difficult to see clearly through the glass, which could potentially distract the driver and impair the driving experience. This issue calls into question the effectiveness of the vehicle's winter features, especially in countries that experience severe weather.

Given the rising popularity of hybrid and electric vehicles, such defects could have significant implications for consumer confidence and sales. Manufacturers like Citroën may face increased scrutiny regarding the functionality of their vehicles' features in extreme conditions, urging them to ensure a high standard of quality and reliability in their offerings.