And that assessment is based on what, experiences collected with cars 40 years ago? If a car is reliable or not can vary from model to model within the same brand, and even from year to year (despite there not being a facelift or anything else that would indicate changes). So basing such statements on experiences with very old cars, that completely stumped Malaysian mechanics because they were nothing like what these mechanics knew.. I find that a bit daring.

Look at statistics from countries where these cars are more common, in order to get an idea. Also, are crucial parts common enough in Malaysia? i.e. if it uses the same engine as many other cars in the country, you should be able to find specialists for that engine. etc.

See? That's what I mean. The DS5 doesn't have a hydraulic suspension. Citroen has stopped making those.

Also, driving environment kinder? Spain is hotter than Malaysia. Potholes? Yeah, we have those in Europe too. Ever been to Berlin? Can compete with JB. The worst holes are being fixed, but the fix usually goes too far, meaning it's very bumpy again. Also, they don't spray salt everywhere in Malaysia. The roads aren't covered in salt. Aggressive, corroding salt. It's also not covered in small stones that fly everywhere, destroying radiators (you should see my radiator), paint, windscreens, ...

In any case, maintain your car well, and it should treat you well. Don't try to be cheap... that will bite you (it will with all cars, just that a conti will bite you harder because it's not so easy to fix in Malaysia). For me it was the head gasket seal... the issue was noticed too late, and the fix didn't go far enough (or it was too late for it). So it failed again. Can happen with any car, just that with an exotic conti, you can't find a replacement engine easily.