CITROEN

CASHING IN ON CACHET The Citroen C2’s practical proposition perhaps needed a bit of window dressing to bring it to a wider audience. In Cachet form, Citroen have given it exactly that. Jonathan Crouch reports

There’s not a great deal of kudos – cachet if you like – to be had in the business of buying a bargain basement runabout. Yet the market is awash with manufacturers keen to persuade you to the contrary. Citroen, for example, who would like small car buyers to register the existence of their C2 Cachet.

Here’s a little car with an extra dose of attitude and luxury all wrapped into one affordable package priced from around £9,000. OK, so it’s maybe not quite as affordable as the Perodua Kelisas and Daihatsu Charades of this world but the C2 has a far more sophisticated look and feel to it that makes it a car that appeals as much more than lowest common denominator motoring. Sit inside a C2 and you’re not constantly reminded of your penny-pinching ways. It feels cheeky, modern and agreeably sophisticated. In Cachet form, the car is available with a choice of two petrol engines (a 1.1i and a 1.4i) and can be ordered in 4 smart colours; black, arctic steel, poseidon blue and sport red. C2 Cachet special editions come complete with air conditioning and an MP3 compatible CD player, as well as remote central locking, front electric windows, twin front and lateral airbags, Isofix fittings, an aluminium-effect surround on the centre console and (if you go for the 1.4-litre version) alloy wheels. Prices? Well, you’ll pay £9,095 for the 1.1i and £9,795 for the 1.4i. Both come in three-door form only: you’ll need to opt for Citroen’s larger C3 if you need five doors. Performance from the 1.1-litre version we tried is best described as modest, the 61bhp four-cylinder engine hauling the C2 to 60mph in 14.4 seconds and on to a rather frenetic top speed of 98mph. Fuel economy is, conversely, very good, the C2 averaging 37.1mpg around town, 57.6mpg on a long run with an overall combined fuel figure of 47.9mpg. It’s worth calculating how many miles you drive per year and how many years you plan to own the car before plumping for a pricier diesel version in the standard range. Chances are the C2 1.1i model will work out as the more economical all-round proposition. The downside of a small petrol engine is that it can feel a little weedy on long inclines and you may need to stir the stick a little to inject some urge.

"Here’s a little car with an extra dose of attitude and luxury all wrapped into one affordable package.."

Go for the 1.4i and a top speed of 105mph means that typical motorway cruising speeds aren’t going to leave you looking like a shell shock victim after an hour behind the wheel although acceleration isn’t that brisk: you’ll need 13.9 seconds to hit 60mph.Fuel economy is predictably good, this C2 averaging 35mpg around town, but recording virtually identical extra-urban and combined fuel figures to the 1.1i. Although it shares its chassis, drivetrains and a number of body and interior parts with the larger five-door C3 (also offered in Cachet form for a premium of around £900 in the case of the 1.4-litre version), don’t think of this model as merely a scaled down version of that car. The styling marks a different direction with a C3-style bulbous nose allied to a far edgier, angular back end. Although to some it might look like the results of two design studies fused at the door pillars, it’s certainly distinctive. The side windows adopt a staggered line while the rear haunches blister out in a purposeful fashion and the latest models can be identified by a clear section in the tail-light clusters. Whichever trim level you opt for, you’ll find a car that maximises its use of available space very effectively. Despite being even shorter than Citroen’s old Saxo, it’s easily able to seat four in comfort. Lessons have been learned from the reception given to the C3 interior and the C2 adopts many of the funkier styling touches such as the ventilation system and the bar rev counter and introduces a few of its own. Interior materials quality has been improved with the introduction of the upmarket dashboard also found in the C3 featuring high-grade plastics and silver detailing. There’s a wide range of trim choices from sober monotones right up to the most extrovert two-tone designs. The steering adjusts for rake and reach and few will have any cause for complaint given the amount of space in the front of the cabin as it feels no smaller than the C3, a car already renowned for its spaciousness. Like the C3, the C2 gets a can holder ahead of the gear lever as well as generously proportioned door bins that can accommodate a 500ml bottle of pop. Access to the rear isn’t bad and Citroen have displayed admirable pragmatism in failing to pretend that the C2 is anything other than a four seater. So many small cars cram three belts in across the back and end up trussing occupants up like a leg of lamb but the two rear seats of the C2 are well sculpted and respectable in terms of knee and shoulder room although taller passengers may feel the sloping roof impinges on their coif. If you haven’t tried a C2 before, you’ll also probably be intrigued by the tailgate that splits into two sections to ease loading in tight spots. With a number of safety features that include twin front and side airbags, ABS brakes and power assisted steering across the range, this C2 looks a sensible buy as well as a value-added one. Although the styling may divide opinion and the lack of three rear seats may strike it off the list of some, this Citroen is still a car that is going to suit many buyers in this sector, particularly those on the lookout for, shall we say, a dash of cachet….

Facts At A Glance CAR: Citroen C2 Cachet special edition PRICES: £9,095-£9,795 - on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 1E-3E CO2 EMISSIONS: 138-143g/km PERFORMANCE: [1.1i] 0-60mph 14.4s / Max Speed 98mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: [1.1i] (urban) 37.1mpg (extra urban) 57.6mpg (combined) 47.9mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front and side airbags WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/width/heightmm 3666/1659/1461mm

CAN IT C2 THE REST? In replacing the successful Saxo supermini, Citroen’s little C2 had a tough brief to fulfil. So far, it’s carried this off pretty well, even with the smaller C1 model slotting in beneath it. Jonathan Crouch checks out the latest revised range

So far so good. Citroen’s C2 is doing pretty well for Citroen just at present thank you very much with over 50,000 sold in the UK to date. But in-house competition is always something you can do without and that’s just what this car has in the shapely form of the little Citroen C1. Can the C2 continue to sell at decent levels alongside its smaller stablemate? The latest package of revisions should help.

These run to a minor restyle which has brought what Citroen hope is a smarter and more ‘distinctive’ front radiator grille and an ‘imposing’ one-piece front bumper. There are also ‘cooler’ trim colours and equipment upgrades that now include lateral airbags on many models and features like an MP3-compatible stereo even on the entry-level C2 Vibe. To make the purchase decision easier, the C2 line-up has been simplified to four trim levels - Vibe, Rhythm, VTR and VTS. The clever ‘Stop & Start’ model is now more affordable too, thanks to this technology’s availability in budget Rhythm trim. Prices across the range sit in the £9,000 to £14,000 bracket. Although it shares its chassis, drivetrains and a number of body and interior parts with the larger C3, don’t think of this car as merely a scaled down version of Citroen’s spherical supermini. The styling marks a different direction with a C3-style bulbous nose allied to a far edgier, angular back end. Although to some it might look like the results of two design studies fused at the door pillars, it’s certainly distinctive. The side windows adopt a staggered line while the rear haunches blister out in a purposeful fashion. Seven engines – all borrowed from the C3 – are offered with the C2. A 61bhp 1.1-litre opens proceedings but the mid-range 75bhp 1.4-litre petrol also looks good value. A 90bhp 16-valve version of this unit is also available with Stop & Start technology which turns the engine off when the vehicle is stationary to save fuel, restarting it again when it’s time to move off. For ultimate economy, the 1.4-litre HDi models will be the first port of call, whilst the VTS versions mark the top of the range. The petrol VTS is a 125bhp car that sits above the 110bhp VTR but has a manual gearbox where the VTR uses a SensoDrive clutchless set-up. Both of these performance models are powered by Citroen’s 1.6-litre 16v engine. The alternative is the VTS HDi which gets a 1.6-litre 110bhp diesel. If you want a more affordable sporty-looking C2, there are also 1.4-litre petrol and diesel versions of the VTR.

"The C2 adopts many of its bigger brother’s funkier styling touches and introduces a few of its own "

With 10bhp more than its Saxo predecessor and a whole bunch more standard equipment, the 1.6-litre 110bhp VTR model that most customers in this sector choose looks reasonable value. The petrol VTS is the quickest C2 with a 0-60mph sprint of 8.1s and a 126mph top speed but the VTS HDi isn’t far behind with a 9.4s 0-60mph sprint. Both cars emphasise their performance with an aggressive bodykit, bold ‘VTS’ badging and a set of 16" alloy wheels. The five-speed manual transmission from the C3 is the default choice on most of the engines but many C2s are also available with the SensoDrive gearbox that Citroen claim is ‘rally style’. This four-speed sequential ‘box boasts advanced electronics that attempt to learn different driving styles, whilst a flick of the lever allows the driver to make ‘manual’ changes without the need for a clutch pedal. Although the shift responses may disappoint Lewis Hamilton, the gearbox is certainly game enough and will blip the throttle on downchanges when you’re in the mood, defaulting back to an automatic mode when you’re not. The current models feature classier shifters with a lever slots into position rather than centring itself once each mode has been selected and steering wheel paddles with more of a solid feel. The VTR might be over shadowed by the VTS but it certainly looks the part with colour-keyed bumpers and a subtle sill’n’spoiler kit. Whichever C2 model you opt for, you’ll find a car that maximises its use of available space very effectively. Despite being even shorter than the old Saxo, it’s easily able to seat four in comfort. Lessons have been learned from the reception given to the C3 interior and the C2 adopts many of the funkier styling touches such as the ventilation system and the bar rev counter and introduces a few of its own. Interior materials quality has been improved where possible and there’s a wide range of trim choices from sober monotones right up to the most extrovert two-tone designs. The steering adjusts for rake and reach in all versions while plusher trims also get a height adjustable seat. Few will have any cause for complaint given the amount of space in the front of the cabin as it feels no smaller than the C3, a car already renowned for its spaciousness. Like the C3, the C2 gets a can holder ahead of the gear lever as well as generously proportioned door bins that can accommodate a 500ml bottle of pop. Access to the rear isn’t bad and Citroen have displayed admirable pragmatism in failing to pretend that the C2 is anything other than a four seater. So many small cars cram three belts in across the back and end up trussing occupants up like a leg of lamb but the two rear seats of the C2 are well sculpted and respectable in terms of knee and shoulder room although taller passengers may feel the sloping roof impinges on their coif. Opt for upspec models and the rear seats individually slide, recline, fold and tumble. This allows the owner to optimise luggage or passenger space by sliding the seats on runners but in order to fold the rear seats fully flat, the front ones need to be run a long way forward, precluding this possibility for long legged drivers and front passengers. All versions nevertheless get a tailgate that splits into two sections to ease loading in tight spots. Overall, with a number of safety features that include twin front and side airbags on all models and power assisted steering across the range, the C2 still looks a decent buy. Sophisticated electronics functions like automatic wipers and headlamps, rear parking sensors and folding rear mirrors will also be available if you’re prepared to dip into the wallet. Although the styling may divide opinion and the lack of three rear seats may strike it off the list of some, the C2 remains a very welcome option in a market sector populated with a lot of mediocrity. Can it appeal to both the budget buying family and the genuine enthusiast? We suspect the answer will continue to prove to be affirmative.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Citroen C2 range PRICES: £8,709-£13,699 - on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 1-8 CO2 EMISSIONS: 113-163g/km PERFORMANCE: [1.4HDi] Top Speed 102mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: [1.4HDi] (combined) 68.9mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front and side airbags WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/wheelbase 3660/2310mm

KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE PRISE Small it may be but Citroen’s C2 Enterprise van turns size to its advantage. Steve Walker reports

You might imagine that there’s a limited market for vans that can’t match the carrying capacity of the average family estate car and to a certain extent, you’d be right. Any business with cargos of even moderate weights or dimensions to move about will find one of these diminutive models woefully inadequate. But for couriers, engineering contractors, security firms and other organisations needing to shift small loads of packages or equipment, across urban areas, they’re just the job. The market might not be big but it does exist and Citroen aren’t ones to pass up on the opportunity to pedal a few more commercial vehicle units. Hence the C2 Enterprise Van.

It’s been improved in recent times with what Citroen calls ‘a new, more assertive look’. This has been achieved though a redesigned bonnet, front bumper and fresh grille design with larger Citroën chevrons and black lacquered surround. These changes to the front end appearance aim to give the C2 Enterprise van a more sporty and stylish appearance. Inside, drivers get an upgraded RDS stereo radio/CD player which now incorporates MP3 compatibility. Plus there’s an upgraded (£500 ex VAT) optional air conditioning pack that most operators will go for that now also includes electric front windows and electric door mirrors. Aside from this, very little else has changed. OK, so it’s still small. Buy a Ford Focus hatchback, fold the rear seats down and right there you’ve got a payload capacity that exceeds the one offered by a Citroen C2 Enterprise and its contemporaries. So what’s the point? Well, the supermini-derived van does offer a number of advantages over a car with its seat backs lowered, the most salient of these being cost. Dimensionally challenged though its loadspace may be, a small van in this sector does have a dedicated loadspace. Therefore, as far as the Inland Revenue is concerned, it’s a commercial vehicle. Businesses can reclaim the VAT and employees benefiting from the use of it avoid the costly Benefit In Kind taxation levied on company car users. The C2 Enterprise costs from £7,945 without VAT and that’s cheap - a word that brings a warm glow to the cockles of fleet managers throughout the land.

"…it’s also worth remembering that the C2 Enterprise qualifies for the lowest possible insurance grouping."

While we’re on the subject of cost, it’s also worth remembering that the C2 Enterprise qualifies for the lowest possible insurance grouping. It falls into band 1E and that will pay dividends over a typical ownership period. With the option of a 2-year unlimited mileage warranty or 3-year cover that’s limited to 100,000 miles, C2 Enterprise owners should sleep soundly in their beds without the spectre of hefty repair bills hanging over them – at least for the first few years. The supermini-derived van has other advantages over a car with its seats in load mode too, namely that the load area has been properly modified for commercial purposes. Open the tailgate of a C2 Enterprise and you’ll be confronted by a flat load bed that’s lined to protect the bodywork against knocks and spillages. Four load lashing points are provided to fasten down unruly cargo and there’s a full height steel bulkhead with mesh upper to prevent said cargo from smacking the driver in the back under sharp braking. Otherwise, the C2 Enterprise van is very similar to an entry-level C2 supermini and therein lie its biggest strengths. The design is refreshingly modern and that presents some key advantages over older rivals. Let’s look at the loadbay first, where the C2’s innovative split tailgate opens in two sections, one lifting up and the other folding down. With this set-up, less space is needed behind the car to access the load area and the bottom flap actually drops down to create a handy loading platform, capable of supporting 100kg, to rest items on while you manoeuvre them into the space beyond. This bottom section also houses a 5-litre storage compartment, which can be used to house cargo straps or other small items. The C2 supermini has a boot that’s really only capable of accommodating a few shopping bags, so even after ditching the rear seats, the C2 Enterprise was never going to provide enough space to swing a cat - with a 0.84m3 to play with, you could just about rotate a gerbil. The average for rival supermini vans is around about 1m3 though and that’s not a whole lot better. The Enterprise’s weight bearing potential is more seriously restricted with 331kg compared to around 500kg in most competitors. The C2 is Citroen’s entry into the sporty 3-door sector of the supermini market and the C2 Enterprise inherits its dynamic looks along with its sprightly handling. It’s certainly a distinctive vehicle to look at with that smoothly domed nose and wonky window line apparently contradicting each other yet creating a cohesive all round effect. Get behind the wheel and you’ll be impressed by the van’s nimbleness. The virtually non-existent rear overhang and the ultra-tight 9.6m turning circle open up a whole world of parking and turning round opportunities. The ride is well-damped but there is still that firm edge to the suspension and the C2 corners with some composure. The 5-speed gearbox is a little sloppy and has a long throw shifting action but it’s nothing to get too worked up about. The steering is light and lacks feel but the brakes do a commendable job. In the engine bay, C2 Enterprise buyers have just one option but fortunately, it’s Citroen’s highly accomplished 70bhp 1.4-litre HDi unit. It’s well suited to the demands of urban operators with torque measured at 160Nm on tap at just 1,750rpm to provide spirited acceleration from low speeds and give good in-gear flexibility. This small common-rail diesel engine will also return first-rate fuel economy figures with Citroen proclaiming a scarcely believable 68.9mpg on the combined cycle and a still outstanding average of over 50mpg around town. Safety and security are excellent and both are key contributing factors to the C2 Enterprise’s class-leading insurance costs. ABS with EBD is standard as are twin front airbags and seatbelt pretensioners while remote central locking, an immobiliser and automatic locking that engages when the vehicle is in motion will help to thwart the criminal fraternity. The cabin has a pleasantly upmarket feel with tough black plastics and aluminium detailing around the air-vents - although storage is scarce thanks to the inclusion only of narrow door pockets and two small gloveboxes. The C2 van is remarkably well equipped considering the prices being asked. You’ll find a CD stereo, power steering, height and reach adjustable steering and a trip computer all on board. There’s no escaping the fact that the C2 Enterprise has one of the smallest loadbays in any van but in splitting hairs over weights and measures we’re missing the point. The C2’s strength is its size and its modern design. It’s highly manoeuvrable, very cheap to run and is powered by an accomplished HDi engine. If you need to carry more than 331kg, it’s going to be useless but there will be more than a few operators who never approach that kind of capacity and for them, a C2 Enterprise van may be ideal.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Citroen C2 Enterprise van PRICES: £7,945 + VAT - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 1E CO2 EMISSIONS: 108g/km PERFORMANCE: Top Speed 103mph 0-60 13.5s STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: ABS with EBD, Twin front airbags PAYLOAD CAPACITY: 331kg LOAD VOLUME: 0.84m3

A HARD ACT TO FOLLOW Citroen’s C2 VTR finds itself filling some illustrious shoes. This car’s predecessor, the old Saxo VTR, was a huge hit but Citroen are confident that the C2 is made of the right stuff. Andy Enright reports…

Certain cars are born great, others have greatness thrust upon them. Then there’s another category of cars that have pimply adolescents thrust upon them. Into this final category came the Citroen Saxo VTR – a car that developed a cult following amongst those who craved performance and style but couldn’t stomach big insurance bills. Such was the success of the VTR model that it came to account for a disproportionate percentage of total Saxo sales, giving Citroen a decidedly peachy bottom line. Time, however, caught up with the Saxo and as ever more sophisticated rivals waded in, a replacement was sought. In the distinctly unconventional shape of the C2 VTR, Citroen reckon they’ve found it.

After the familiar form of the Saxo, the C2 VTR comes as something of a shock. Unlike many cars that create a sudden negative or affirmative response regarding their styling, the C2 provoked a riot of discussion about whether that ‘round at the front, sharp at the back’ shape worked. The closest we could get to consensus was that it looked at first striking, then awkward but once you took time to get your eye used to it, yes it did work. What’s beyond any reasonable doubt is that the VTR version looks a whole heap better than the standard shopping trolley version. With a chunky sill and spoiler kit as well as 16-inch alloy wheels and colour-keyed bumpers, the VTR does a great job of walking the fine line between aggression and juvenility. So many manufacturers try to create a sporting hatch and just end up producing a car that few over the age of twenty-two would ever be seen dead in. With a long pedigree of producing credible performance hatches, Citroen haven’t fallen into that particular trap. Powered (in the form that most people buy) by a 110bhp 1.6-litre 16-valve engine, the VTR walks the walk too, accelerating to 60mph in 10.7 seconds and running on to a top speed of 121mph. Of course, this isn’t premier league hot hatch territory but neither is the Group 6 insurance rating – one of the key attractions for younger customers. They’ll also give thanks to the VTR’s ability to average 45mpg in everyday driving conditions. If you want to better that, there are more affordable 1.4-litre petrol and diesel VTR derivatives priced from around £10,500. Citroen have been spectacularly successful in offering incentives that have lured young drivers to embark upon the Citroen way and the VTR is bound to be no different. Look for cashbacks and free insurance offers and if none are forthcoming, try the Citroen dealer down the road.

"The C2 VTR does a great job of walking the fine line between aggression and juvenility"

It’s impossible to carp about the C2 VTR value proposition. Weighing in at just over £12,000 as a 1.6-litre petrol model, if you take underlying inflation into account, the VTR works out at less than its sparsely equipped Saxo predecessor retailed at seven years ago and it’s equipped with a semi-automatic Sensodrive gearbox. It’s now accompanied by a 125bhp VTS model priced at £800 more and a VTS HDi alternative which comes in at £1,000 more again but the VTR is still likely to be the big seller. Despite being even shorter than a Saxo, the VTR is easily able to seat four in comfort. Lessons have been learned from the reception given to the C3 interior and the C2 adopts many of the funkier styling touches such as the ventilation system and the bar rev counter and introduces a few of its own. Interior materials quality has been improved with the introduction of the upmarket dashboard also found in the C3 featuring high-grade plastics and silver detailing. There’s a wide range of trim choices from sober monotones right up to the most extrovert two-tone designs. The steering adjusts for rake and reach plus there’s a height adjustable seat. Few will have any cause for complaint given the amount of space in the front of the cabin as it feels no smaller than the C3, a car already renowned for its spaciousness. Like the C3, the C2 gets a can holder ahead of the gear lever as well as generously proportioned door bins that can accommodate a 500ml bottle of pop. Access to the rear isn’t bad and Citroen have displayed admirable pragmatism in failing to pretend that the C2 is anything other than a four seater. So many small cars cram three belts in across the back and end up trussing occupants up like a leg of lamb but the two rear seats of the C2 are well sculpted and respectable in terms of knee and shoulder room although taller passengers may feel the sloping roof impinges on their coif. The VTR also gets the rear seat system where the seats individually slide, recline, fold and tumble. This allows the owner to optimise luggage or passenger space by sliding the seats on runners but in order to fold the rear seats fully flat, the front ones need to be run a long way forward, precluding this possibility for long legged drivers and front passengers. It’s also fitted with a tailgate that splits into two sections to ease loading in tight spots. With a number of safety features that include twin front and side airbags on all models and power assisted steering across the range, the C2 VTR looks a decent buy. Big car features like anti lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist are fitted as standard as are sports seats and even cruise control – surely a first for such a tiny car. If you really want to push the boat out, the VTR can be specified with Citroen’s RT3 system, incorporating a voice activated phone, satellite navigation and a five-disc CD autochanger. Owners and insurers alike will be relieved to hear that Citroen has fitted a proper Thatcham-approved anti-theft alarm as standard. The C2 VTR has a serious weight of expectation resting upon its little shoulders. So far it seems to bearing up extremely well.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Citroen C2 VTR range PRICES: £10,495-£12,295 - on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 3-6 CO2 EMISSIONS: 113-151g/km PERFORMANCE: [1.6 16v] Max Speed 121mph / 0-60mph 10.7s FUEL CONSUMPTION: [1.6 16v] (combined) 45.9mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front and side airbags / ABS with EBD and EBA WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/wheelbase 3660/2310mm WHO TO SEE:

KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE PRISE Small It May Be But Citroen’s C2 Enterprise Van Turns Size To Its Advantage. Steve Walker Reports.

You might imagine that there’s a limited market for vans that can’t match the carrying capacity of the average family estate car and to a certain extent, you’d be right. Any business with cargos of even moderate weights or dimensions to move about will find one of these diminutive models woefully inadequate. But for couriers, engineering contractors, security firms and other organisations needing to shift small loads of packages or equipment, across urban areas, they’re just the job. The market might not be big but it does exist and Citroen aren’t ones to pass up on the opportunity to pedal a few more commercial vehicle units. Hence the C2 Enterprise Van.

Buy a Ford Focus hatchback, fold the rear seats down and right there you’ve got a payload capacity that exceeds the one offered by a Citroen C2 Enterprise and its contemporaries. So what’s the point? Well, the supermini-derived van does offer a number of advantages over a car with its seat backs lowered, the most salient of these being cost. Dimensionally challenged though its loadspace may be, a small van in this sector does have a dedicated loadspace. Therefore, as far as the Inland Revenue is concerned, it’s a commercial vehicle. Businesses can reclaim the VAT and employees benefiting from the use of it avoid the costly Benefit In Kind taxation levied on company car users. The C2 Enterprise costs from £7,695 without VAT and that’s cheap - a word that brings a warm glow to the cockles of fleet managers throughout the land. While we’re on the subject of cost, it’s also worth remembering that the C2 Enterprise qualifies for the lowest possible insurance grouping. It falls into band 1E and that will pay dividends over a typical ownership period. With the option of a 2-year unlimited mileage warranty or 3-year cover that’s limited to 100,000 miles, C2 Enterprise owners should sleep soundly in their beds without the spectre of hefty repair bills hanging over them – at least for the first few years. The supermini-derived van has other advantages over a car with its seats in load mode too, namely that the load area has been properly modified for commercial purposes. Open the tailgate of a C2 Enterprise and you’ll be confronted by a flat load bed that’s lined to protect the bodywork against knocks and spillages. Four load lashing points are provided to fasten down unruly cargo and there’s a full height steel bulkhead with mesh upper to prevent said cargo from smacking the driver in the back under sharp braking.

"…it’s also worth remembering that the C2 Enterprise qualifies for the lowest possible insurance grouping."

Otherwise, the C2 Enterprise van is very similar to an entry-level C2 supermini and therein lie its biggest strengths. The C2 may be small (in fact its compact dimensions almost qualify it for citycar status) but the design is refreshingly modern and that presents some key advantages over older rivals. Let’s look at the loadbay first, where the C2’s innovative split tailgate opens in two sections, one lifting up and the other folding down. With this set-up, less space is needed behind the car to access the load area and the bottom flap actually drops down to create a handy loading platform, capable of supporting 100kg, to rest items on while you manoeuvre them into the space beyond. This bottom section also houses a 5-litre storage compartment, which can be used to house cargo straps or other small items. The C2 supermini has a boot that’s really only capable of accommodating a few shopping bags, so even after ditching the rear seats, the C2 Enterprise was never going to provide enough space to swing a cat - with a 0.84m3 to play with, you could just about rotate a gerbil. The average for rival supermini vans is around about 1m3 though and that’s not a whole lot better. The Enterprise’s weight bearing potential is more seriously restricted with 331kg compared to around 500kg in most competitors. The C2 is Citroen’s entry into the sporty 3-door sector of the supermini market and the C2 Enterprise inherits its dynamic looks along with its sprightly handling. It’s certainly a distinctive vehicle to look at with that smoothly domed nose and wonky window line apparently contradicting each other yet creating a cohesive all round effect. Get behind the wheel and you’ll be impressed by the van’s nimbleness. The virtually non-existent rear overhang and the ultra-tight 9.6m turning circle open up a whole world of parking and turning round opportunities. The ride is well-damped but there is still that firm edge to the suspension and the C2 corners with some composure. The 5-speed gearbox is a little sloppy and has a long throw shifting action but it’s nothing to get too worked up about. The steering is light and lacks feel but the brakes do a commendable job. In the engine bay, C2 Enterprise buyers have just one option but fortunately, it’s Citroen’s highly accomplished 70bhp 1.4-litre HDi unit. It’s well suited to the demands of urban operators with torque measured at 160Nm on tap at just 1,750rpm to provide spirited acceleration from low speeds and give good in-gear flexibility. This small common-rail diesel engine will also return first-rate fuel economy figures with Citroen proclaiming a scarcely believable 68.9mpg on the combined cycle and a still outstanding average of over 50mpg around town. Safety and security are excellent and both are key contributing factors to the C2 Enterprise’s class-leading insurance costs. ABS with EBD is standard as are twin front airbags and seatbelt pretensioners while remote central locking, an immobiliser and automatic locking that engages when the vehicle is in motion will help to thwart the criminal fraternity. The cabin has a pleasantly upmarket feel with tough black plastics and aluminium detailing around the air-vents - although storage is scarce thanks to the inclusion only of narrow door pockets and two small gloveboxes. The C2 van is remarkably well equipped considering the prices being asked. You’ll find a CD stereo, power steering, height and reach adjustable steering and a trip computer all on board. There’s no escaping the fact that the C2 Enterprise has one of the smallest loadbays in any van but in splitting hairs over weights and measures we’re missing the point. The C2’s strength is its size and its modern design. It’s highly manoeuvrable, very cheap to run and is powered by an accomplished HDi engine. If you need to carry more than 331kg, it’s going to be useless but there will be more than a few operators who never approach that kind of capacity and for them, a C2 Enterprise van may be ideal.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Citroen C2 Enterprise van PRICES: £7,695 + VAT - on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 1E CO2 EMISSIONS: 108g/km PERFORMANCE: Top Speed 103mph 0-60 13.5s STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: ABS with EBD, Twin front airbags PAYLOAD CAPACITY: 331kg LOAD VOLUME: 0.84m3

1.4 TO THE FLOOR Citroen’s C2 1.4-litre offers a big car feel but small car prices. Andy Enright reports

Citroen have come a long way in the past few years. Once an exemplar of Gallic sophistication, the company went through an undistinguished spell in the eighties before reinventing itself in the nineties as a purveyor of cars that were among the best value in class. Now their ambitions are a little broader, the company looking to not only retain the value but to also boost the quality. The Citroen C2 shows that they may succeed with this approach and the 1.4-litre petrol models are bound to prove popular.

Prices for the 75bhp version kick off at just £9,795 for the Rhythm version and you’ll pay £10,395 for the sportier VTR. These seem like reasonable levels given the healthy equipment quota offered with all the models. The urban jungle is where the C2 feels most at home, although the 1.4-litre engine endows the car with the legs to undertake longer journeys. A top speed of 105mph means that typical motorway cruising speeds aren’t going to leave you looking like a shell shock victim after an hour behind the wheel although acceleration isn’t that brisk: you’ll need 13.9 seconds to hit 60mph. Fuel economy is predictably good, the C2 averaging 35mpg around town, 57.6mpg on a long run with an overall combined fuel figure of 47mpg. It’s worth calculating how many miles you drive per year and how many years you plan to own the car before plumping for a pricier diesel version. Chances are the C2 1.4 model will work out as the more economical all-round proposition. The downside of a small petrol engine is that it can feel a little weedy on long inclines and you may need to stir the gearbox a bit in order to maintain progress, although this is no great hardship. A further option is the C2 Stop & Start offered in Rhythm trim at £11,295 This model has a slightly more powerful 90bhp 16-valve version of this engine and turns it off when it’s stationary, restarting it automatically when it’s time to move off. Fuel savings in urban areas can be as much as 15%. Although prices may not be as cheap as cars like the Fiat Panda and the Daihatsu Charade, the C2 1.4 certainly has a bigger and better engine than these models offer and also has those sought-after sporty looks. Sit inside a C2 and you’re not constantly reminded of your penny-pinching ways. It feels cheeky, modern and agreeably sophisticated. The Rhythm version has an MP3 CD player, remote central locking with deadlocks, electric front windows and electric door mirrors. The VTR features VTS-lookalike sills and spoilers, making it a very attractive choice for the younger driver who still wants to cut a dash but doesn’t fancy being taken to the cleaners by their insurance broker.

"A big car feel with small car prices…"

Although it shares its chassis, drivetrains and a number of body and interior parts with the C3, don’t think of this car as merely a scaled down version of Citroen’s spherical supermini. The styling marks a different direction with a C3-style bulbous nose allied to a far edgier, angular back end. Although to some it might look like the results of two design studies fused at the door pillars, it’s certainly distinctive. The side windows adopt a staggered line while the rear haunches blister out in a purposeful fashion and the latest models can be identified by a clear section in the tail-light clusters. Whichever trim level you opt for, you’ll find a car that maximises its use of available space very effectively. Despite being even shorter than a Saxo, it’s easily able to seat four in comfort. Lessons have been learned from the reception given to the C3 interior and the C2 adopts many of the funkier styling touches such as the ventilation system and the bar rev counter and introduces a few of its own. The latest cars feature an upgraded dashboard, in high-grade plastic with silver detailing, which brings a pleasantly up-market feel to the cabin. There’s a wide range of trim choices too, from sober monotones right up to the most extrovert two-tone designs. The steering adjusts for rake and reach in all versions while plusher trims also get a height adjustable seat. Few will have any cause for complaint given the amount of space in the front of the cabin as it feels no smaller than the C3, a car already renowned for its spaciousness. Like the C3, the C2 gets a can holder ahead of the gear lever as well as generously proportioned door bins that can accommodate a 500ml bottle of pop. Access to the rear isn’t bad and Citroen have displayed admirable pragmatism in failing to pretend that the C2 is anything other than a four seater. So many small cars cram three belts in across the back and end up trussing occupants up like a leg of lamb but the two rear seats of the C2 are well sculpted and respectable in terms of knee and shoulder room although taller passengers may feel the sloping roof impinges on their coif. Opt for upspec models and the rear seats individually slide, recline, fold and tumble. This allows the owner to optimise luggage or passenger space by sliding the seats on runners but in order to fold the rear seats fully flat, the front ones need to be run a long way forward, precluding this possibility for long legged drivers and front passengers. All versions nevertheless get a tailgate that splits into two sections to ease loading in tight spots. With a number of safety features that include twin front and side airbags, ABS brakes and power assisted steering across the range, the C2 looks a decent buy. Sophisticated electronics functions like automatic wipers and headlamps, rear parking sensors and folding rear mirrors are also available if you’re prepared to dip into the wallet. Although the styling may divide opinion and the lack of three rear seats may strike it off the list of some, the C2 1.4-litre model is a class act.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Citroen C2 1.4-litre range PRICES: £9,795-£11,295 - on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 3-4 CO2 EMISSIONS: 130-143g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 13.9s / Max Speed 105mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 37.1mpg (extra urban) 57.6mpg (combined) 47.9mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front and side airbags WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/wheelbase 3660/2310mm

CODE CRACKER Can’t decide whether you want a sporty tot or one with a touch of luxury? Citroën reckons you can have it both ways with the C2 Code. Andy Enright takes a look

Citroën has some form line when it comes to making small cars that are great fun to drive. Wizened oldies might gleefully remember the Visa GTi while a little more recently, there was the iconic AX GT and the massively popular Saxo VTR and VTS twins. Following in the footsteps of the Saxo hasn’t been an easy task for the Citroën C2 but the VTS and VTR variants are starting to establish themselves as the prime pick for the nation’s younger drivers who want their first quickish car without being clobbered by monster insurance premiums.

Virtually as strong as Citroën’s reputation for building pocket rockets is its facility for attractive offers and discounts and very few customers will pay full retail for something like a C2 VTS. The Code special edition model tacitly acknowledges this, offering a decent slug of extra equipment for a bargain price. The C2 Code is powered by a 125bhp 1.6-litre engine that’s enough to punt it to 60mph in 8.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 126mph. This sixteen-valve unit never feels particularly rapid but a look at the torque curve shows why. It’s so broad and flat that there’s enough urge for overtaking right across the board with no awkward flat spots or the screaming peaks associated with old fashioned multi-valve engines. This measured, linear response makes the car feel a good deal more relaxed than its racy looks suggest but it’s an easy car to maintain pace in and deceptively quick when arriving at corners. The five speed manual box is a good deal more conventional than the paddle shift system offered on the VTR model and features close ratio gearing to extract maximum performance from the willing engine. Citroen could probably have made the engine a good deal more powerful had they wished, but in order to keep insurance costs manageable, they’ve pegged the power at 125bhp. Your first performance hatch was once an abject lesson in disappearing off the Queen’s highway tail first during a spectacularly ill-advised cornering manoeuvre but the ESP system does a great job of reining-in youthful enthusiasm. Should you really want to test the effectiveness of Citroen’s insurance policy, the ESP can be switched off but you’ll still have the safety net of anti lock brakes with electronic brake assist and brakeforce distribution to help you out of a spot.

"The C2 Code takes all the attributes of the C2 VTS and presents them in an even more attractive package"

As you would expect from a car that measures just 3,666mm from stem to stern, there’s not a whole lot of space to spare if a long-legged driver sits up front. The sliding rear seats help divide space between the luggage bay and the rear to a certain extent, but in no way could the C2 be forwarded as practical family transport. Two holdalls will just about fit into the boot at maximum extension although Citroen’s split rear hatch helps in this regard. Whereas with a conventional hatch, stacking bags on top of each other in this tall but shallow space would be a precarious exercise in balancing the bags and then slamming the hatch before the uppermost one toppled over, the C2’s hatch means you can place the bags into a boot-like aperture with no problems. I was a little sceptical at first, but having used it in practice, I have to admit to being a convert. Despite being even shorter than a Saxo, the C2 Code is able to seat four in comfort. Lessons have been learned from the reception given to the C3 interior and the C2 adopts many of the funkier styling touches such as the ventilation system and the bar rev counter while introducing a few of its own. The latest cars feature an upgraded dashboard, in high-grade plastic with silver detailing, which brings a pleasantly up-market feel to the cabin. It’s possible to carp about distortion from the curved windscreen but otherwise there are few bum notes in the Code’s cabin. The sports seats grip well, the air-conditioning offers a decent blast of cold air and the stereo isn’t bad. The target customers will doubtless feel that it could use a meaty sub and some amps but for those of us more interested in Sport on Five than Bobby Friction it’s perfectly acceptable. There’s little doubt the C2 Code offers a lot for your money. The £10,695 asking price is nearly £3,000 less than the Saxo VTS was at launch all those years ago, and includes air-conditioning, a CD stereo and ESP stability control as well as the Code-specific leather trim, heated front sports seats and aluminium gear knob. On top of that, there’s a full-length roof stripe, a chrome exhaust pipe and 16-inch alloy wheels. Code customers also get to chose between iron grey pearlescent or dynamic black paint finishes. Rivals for the C2 Code include the Suzuki Swift Sport and the Fiat Panda 100HP, neither of which are as quick nor can they really touch the value proposition that Citroën generates. Demand has proven strong for hot baby Citroën models thanks to a combination of affordable parts prices, a growing and close knit community of owners and the fact that there’s an endless conveyor belt of 17 year olds who want nothing else. Young buyers are often a lot cannier than many give them credit for and will only look to cars that give maximum bang for the buck and that’s where the C2 Code scores. Apart from the low upfront price and beefy residuals – the C2 VTS for instance retains more of its value after three years than an Audi A4 1.8T – insurance is reassuringly affordable at a mere Group 8. This means you’re getting a car that will accelerate to 60mph quicker than a 2.2-litre Alfa Brera but which costs less to insure than a Hyundai Trajet. You won’t need to spend a fortune pouring unleaded down the C2 Code’s neck either. With a combined fuel economy figure of 41mpg, this Citroën isn’t going to earn you a fortune in reward points. The fuel tank isn’t big though, so stopping at petrol stations is a case of little and often. Although they may not have written the rulebook on fast, affordable, small cars, Citroën has at least appointed itself editor in recent years. Rather oddly, the company it has deposed is sister concern Peugeot which once cornered the market but has rather fallen from grace of late. The C2 Code takes all the attributes of the C2 VTS and presents them in an even more attractive package at an eye-catching price. It’s worth bearing in mind that few retail customers will really be paying more than £10,000 for a VTS, but even then, the Code’s package of extras still looks good value. Where this car scores is in offering a beautifully-judged compromise between performance and affordability. It’s a template the Saxo capitalised upon and the C2 is following suit. In short, this is one Code that’s not going to be cracked.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Citroën C2 Code PRICE: £10,695 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 8 CO2 EMISSIONS: 163g/km PERFORMANCE: Max Speed 126mph / 0-60mph 8.1s FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 30.4 (extra urban) 52.3 (combined) 40.9mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front and side airbags / ABS with EBD and EBA WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/width/height 3666/1659/1451mm

CHIRPY CHIRPY CHEAP CHEAP CHEAP? Citroen’s C2 1.1-litre offers some sophisticated new car features but is it a bargain? Andy Enright reports

Time was when looking for an inexpensive new car wasn’t a particularly savoury experience. Trawling through the detritus that was the worst that Eastern Europe or South Korea could foist upon us was unintentionally humorous but didn’t bode well for a happy long term ownership experience. These days, things are thankfully a good deal different when shopping for a bargain basement car and models like Citroen’s 1.1-litre C2 citycar are largely responsible.

With prices ranging from £8,795 to £9,295, it’s maybe not quite as affordable as the Perodua Kelisas and Daihatsu Charades of this world but the C2 has a far more sophisticated look and feel to it that makes it a car that appeals as much more than lowest common denominator motoring. Sit inside a C2 and you’re not constantly reminded of your penny-pinching ways. It feels cheeky, modern and agreeably sophisticated, particularly thanks to a recent minor facelift which has brought a more aggressive-looking front grille. Despite the C2’s cheeky good looks, don’t go expecting a massive equipment list. You do, after all, only get what you pay for. This means making certain sacrifices. On the entry-level L-specification car, you’ll do without a CD player, driver’s seat height adjustment and electric windows and there aren’t the clever sliding and folding rear seats that are fitted to SX models. The sporty Furio model weighs in at an additional £1,000 with the SX range-topper tacking another £200 on top. This model is fitted with air-conditioning which is a boon during a sticky summer in the city, electric door mirrors, velour upholstery, front fog lights and a little stowage tray in the dashboard. Performance from the 1.1-litre is best described as modest, the 61bhp four-cylinder engine hauling the C2 to 60mph in 14.4 seconds and on to a rather frenetic top speed of 98mph. Fuel economy is, conversely, very good, the C2 averaging 37.1mpg around town, 57.6mpg on a long run with an overall combined fuel figure of 47.9mpg. It’s worth calculating how many miles you drive per year and how many years you plan to own the car before plumping for a pricier diesel version. Chances are the C2 1.1 model will work out as the more economical all-round proposition. The downside of a small petrol engine is that it can feel a little weedy on long inclines and you may need to stir the stick a little to inject some urge.

"The C2 1.1-litre adopts many of its bigger brother’s funkier styling touches and introduces a few of its own "

Although it shares its chassis, drivetrains and a number of body and interior parts with the C3, don’t think of this car as merely a scaled down version of Citroen’s spherical supermini. The styling marks a different direction with a C3-style bulbous nose allied to a far edgier, angular back end. Although to some it might look like the results of two design studies fused at the door pillars, it’s certainly distinctive. The side windows adopt a staggered line while the rear haunches blister out in a purposeful fashion and the latest models can be identified by a clear section in the tail-light clusters. Whichever trim level you opt for, you’ll find a car that maximises its use of available space very effectively. Despite being even shorter than a Saxo, it’s easily able to seat four in comfort. Lessons have been learned from the reception given to the C3 interior and the C2 adopts many of the funkier styling touches such as the ventilation system and the bar rev counter and introduces a few of its own. Interior materials quality has been improved with the introduction of the upmarket dashboard also found in the C3 featuring high-grade plastics and silver detailing. There’s a wide range of trim choices from sober monotones right up to the most extrovert two-tone designs. The steering adjusts for rake and reach in all versions while plusher trims also get a height adjustable seat. Few will have any cause for complaint given the amount of space in the front of the cabin as it feels no smaller than the C3, a car already renowned for its spaciousness. Like the C3, the C2 gets a can holder ahead of the gear lever as well as generously proportioned door bins that can accommodate a 500ml bottle of pop. Access to the rear isn’t bad and Citroen have displayed admirable pragmatism in failing to pretend that the C2 is anything other than a four seater. So many small cars cram three belts in across the back and end up trussing occupants up like a leg of lamb but the two rear seats of the C2 are well sculpted and respectable in terms of knee and shoulder room although taller passengers may feel the sloping roof impinges on their coif. Opt for upspec models and the rear seats individually slide, recline, fold and tumble. This allows the owner to optimise luggage or passenger space by sliding the seats on runners but in order to fold the rear seats fully flat, the front ones need to be run a long way forward, precluding this possibility for long legged drivers and front passengers. All versions nevertheless get a tailgate that splits into two sections to ease loading in tight spots. With a number of safety features that include twin front and side airbags, ABS brakes and power assisted steering across the range, the C2 looks a decent buy. Sophisticated electronics functions like automatic wipers and headlamps, rear parking sensors and folding rear mirrors are also be available if you’re prepared to dip into the wallet. Although the styling may divide opinion and the lack of three rear seats may strike it off the list of some, the C2 is a very welcome entrant into a market sector that has been populated with a lot of mediocrity.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Citroen C2 1.1-litre range PRICES: £8,795-£9,295 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 1 CO2 EMISSIONS: 141g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 14.4s / Max Speed 98mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 37.1mpg (extra urban) 57.6mpg (combined) 47.9mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front and side airbags WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/wheelbase 3660/2310mm

HOT HATCH WITH A CONSCIENCE? Citroen’s C2 VTS has proven a popular and fun vehicle to run as a long termer. Andy Enright gives you the lowdown on this appealing but affordable hatch

You can guarantee this C2 VTS would have received a glowing testimony had we given it to one of the younger members of the road test team. It is, after all, one of the poster children of the Max Power generation and if you’re at all embarrassed by the nods of respect from the baseball cap and hoodie brigade, the C2 VTS may not be your thing. Which is exactly why we gave it to a member of staff who didn’t fit this profile at all. We knew the VTS was a cracking little sports hatch. What we also wanted to know was whether it had enough versatility to appeal across the board.

The trouble with many hot hatches is that the frenetic engines, retina-detaching ride quality and spaniel-like enthusiasm can get a bit wearing when you’re faced with a crawl to work on a damp Monday morning. This is when you want an automatic gearbox, soft springs and cruise control. Tough – the VTS has none of that, but it’s a good deal more comfortable and accommodating than any small car this small and with this sort of focus has any right to be. The steering doesn’t require strong arm tactics to point the nose at a corner. While some hardcore enthusiasts have bemoaned the amount of assistance, claiming the C2’s helm lacks feel, as a day-in, day-out driver, it makes a lot of sense. You still have all the pep of that 125bhp engine but without the he-man compromises many sports hatches impose on you. The seating position is good for long distance cruising, making the VTS one of the better tots in this regard, but a few of the interior ergonomics are a little haphazard. The siting of the electric window switches is a real stretch and the door pulls force one to do an impression of a T. Rex, so close are they to the driver’s hips. As you would expect from a car that measures just 3,666mm from stem to stern, there’s not a whole lot of space to spare if a long-legged driver sits up front. The sliding rear seats help divide space between the luggage bay and the rear to a certain extent, but in no way could the C2 be forwarded as practical family transport. Two holdalls will just about fit into the boot at maximum extension although Citroen’s split rear hatch helps in this regard. Whereas with a conventional hatch, stacking bags on top of each other in this tall but shallow space would be a precarious exercise in balancing the bags and then slamming the hatch before the uppermost one toppled over, the C2’s hatch means you can place the bags into a boot-like aperture with no problems. I was a little sceptical at first, but having used it in practice, I have to admit to being a convert.

"You could spend twice as much on a Hot Hatch and in many situations, end up not having as much fun…"

The C2 has proven virtually faultless in terms of reliability. The only blot on its copybook has come with a rear parking sensor unit that was dislodged from position but this represented an easy fix. Otherwise there’s little to complain about. Fuel economy has been very good, even if we didn’t replicate Citroen’s claimed 40.4 mpg average figure. The distance to empty gauge can also be a little idiosyncratic, as noted by a staff member who arrived at the office dripping wet after walking a couple of miles through pouring rain to a petrol station after the Citroen clearly indicated another ten miles to empty. The suspension on the VTS has a pronounced sporty edge but the feedback from the wheels that you need in a hot hatch isn’t too intrusive. Speed humps present little problem, either in terms of grounding at the front or the catapulting of rear seat passengers into the roof lining, and manhole covers aren’t made to feel like cattle grids. The front end has plenty of grip with the traction control intervening only under serious provocation or in slippery conditions and the steering is accurate on the turn in. Driving another car then getting behind the wheel of the C2 VTS, it’s important to make a mental note concerning the brakes. There’s some considerable travel on the middle pedal but when the ventilated discs bite, they do so in tenacious fashion. It’s easy to apply them a little too firmly in an absentminded moment, in which case a look in the rear-view mirror at the sheepish face of the driver behind should be indication enough of how abruptly the C2 has halted. Of course, when it comes to avoiding accidents, anchors this effective could be invaluable and there’s ABS, EBA and EBD to ensure optimum stopping power is always applied. So far as the other key controls go, the gearchange is not the slickest you’ll come across with its loose, long-throw action but the thick steering wheel feels good in the hand. The drilled aluminium pedals look the part but caution is required in the wet because a damp-soled trainer can easily slip from the polished surface at an inopportune moment. The keys to the Citroen C2 VTS are rarely seen sitting about the road testing department. While others will sing the praises of cars you know to be duffers in order to offload them for the weekend, the C2 has provoked all manner of skulduggery. One staff member even invented an entirely non-existent ‘intermittent fault’ that she would get sorted at the weekend in a desperate attempt to retain the VTS. One thing’s for sure. We’ll be sad to see the back of the Citroen. Some cars generate a feeling of elation when you realise you won’t have to drive them any more, but when the Citroen driver arrives at the office, it’ll be black arm bands all round.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Citroen C2 VTS 1.6 16v PRICES: £12,895 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 8 CO2 EMISSIONS: 163g/km PERFORMANCE: Top Speed 126mph 0-60mph 8.1s FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 30.4 (extra urban) 52.3 (combined) 40.9mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front and side airbags / ABS with EBD and EBA WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/width/height 3666/1659/1451mm

RED, AMBER, GREEN & WE HAVE IGNITION Looking for an environmentally friendly car that won’t break the bank? Citroën’s C2 Stop & Start could be the answer. Andy Enright reports…

Some ideas just have their moment. Stop & Start technology could well be on of them. I remember a certain German manufacturer inviting me for a drive in a prototype vehicle fitted with a system that would automatically cut the ignition when you rolled to a halt and restart it again when you prodded the throttle. That was the theory anyway. After three miles of crawling around the M1, I was left stranded in the middle lane, the starter motor chuntering pathetically as the battery had depleted its charge. Technology has moved on significantly since then and Citroën brings us a Stop & Start C2 with genuine ‘real world’ practicality.

The engineering is quite simple. Come to a halt and the Stop & Start system will cut engine power, effectively putting the car in a ‘standby mode’ when the vehicle stops at traffic lights and in traffic jams. Release the brake pedal and the engine instantly starts up again, with the vehicle pulling away once the accelerator is pressed. First trialled on the C3 model, the Stop & Start system proved so successful that it outstripped Citroën’s most optimistic sales projections and is now available with the smaller C2. You won’t get a whole lot of choice regarding engines and transmissions however: the Stop & Start system is optimised for the 1.4-litre 16v petrol engine used in conjunction with the semi-automatic ‘SensoDrive’ transmission, Citroen’s electronically controlled manual gearbox. Priced at £11,295 in Rhythm guise, this C2 offers a realistic alternative to pricey hybrid models and outperforms them in many crucial respects. So how is Citroën’s technology any better than that which left me up the creek on the M1? The answer lies in a clever reversible alternator that acts much like a conventional alternator in normal mode. That is, it’s driven by the engine to charge the battery, but when required, it can then act as a starter motor, driven by the battery to effortlessly restart the engine in just 400 milliseconds. This prevents the battery from having to do all the work itself. A low inertia starter motor also helps preserve charge.

"The C2 Stop & Start offers a cheap, simple and painless way to make significant efficiency savings"

Citroën claims that the ‘Stop & Start’ system has reduced fuel consumption by 10% for city driving, 6% in a standard combined cycle and up to 15% in heavy traffic. All this sounds reasonable, as does the fact that CO2 emissions are reduced by a similar proportion. You could also argue that widespread adoption of ‘Stop & Start’ technology would help to improve the quality of life in cities, since drivers and the urban environment would benefit from total silence during the many times vehicles are stopped. One caveat: it’s well worth remembering that pedestrians aren’t used to these sorts of cars and may well walk out in front of you, assuming you are parked. And the Sensodrive gearbox? Well, it does make this C2 supremely easy to pilot in urban traffic. The gearbox features a mode whereby it defaults to a conventional automatic transmission, thus saving you the bother of shifting yourself. When the road opens up, you can switch it to sequential mode and flip up and down the gears using paddles behind the steering wheel or the centrally-mounted gear lever. It’s not one of those clever clutchless manuals like an Alfa Romeo Selespeed or a Vauxhall Easytronic system – there’s still a conventional automatic torque converter – but it does offer three different programs (Normal, Sport & Snow) as well as that fully automatic mode. A top speed of 105mph means that typical motorway cruising speeds aren’t going to leave you looking like a shell shock victim after an hour behind the wheel, although acceleration isn’t that brisk - you’ll need 13.9 seconds to hit 60mph. Sit inside a C2 and you’re not constantly reminded of your penny-pinching ways. It feels cheeky, modern and agreeably sophisticated. Based on the SX trim level which already features air-conditioning, a CD stereo, electric front windows, power steering, driver’s seat height adjustment and front lateral airbags as well as clever sliding and folding rear seats, the Stop & Start piles on around £1,000 of extra kit. This includes rear parking sensors, automatic air conditioning, automatic headlights and wipers, lateral airbags and electric heated door mirrors. Although it shares its chassis, drivetrains and a number of body and interior parts with the C3, don’t think of this car as merely a scaled down version of Citroën’s spherical supermini. The styling marks a different direction with a C3-style bulbous nose allied to a far edgier, angular back end. Although to some it might look like the results of two design studies fused at the door pillars, it’s certainly distinctive. The side windows adopt a staggered line while the rear haunches blister out in a purposeful fashion and the latest models can be identified by a clear section in the tail-light clusters. Although the C2 Stop & Start may seem a slightly low tech way of achieving improved efficiency, sometimes the simple ideas are the most effective. Do the sums and I’d be willing to lay money on the fact that this car would work out cheaper to run than a hybrid like a Toyota Prius or a Honda Civic IMA over the course of three years. After all, isn’t getting ahead in the city all about working smarter not harder?

Facts At A Glance CAR: Citroen C2 1.4 16v Rhythm Stop & Start PRICES: £11,295 (excluding cashback deals) - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 4 CO2 EMISSIONS: 133g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60 13.9s Top Speed 105mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 41.5mpg / (extra urban) 58.9mpg / (combined) 50.4mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front and side airbags, ABS with EBD and EBA WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/wheelbase 3660/2310mm

BUY FURIOUS? Citroen’s C2 1.1-Litre Furio Offers Younger Drivers Good Looks Without Crippling Insurance Bills. Andy Enright Reports

There’s a lot I miss about being a teen or early twentysomething. The ability to stay out until the wee small hours and shrug the effects off the next morning, the impression of physical indestructibility and the carefree lack of responsibility are things I’d love to have back. One thing that isn’t so welcome is an insurance quote for my first car that read like the bottom figure on Rio Ferdinand’s pay slip. Citroen have long been masters of offering tempting alternatives to impecunious younger drivers and the C2 1.1 Furio is but the latest in a long line of cars that combine sharp styling with manageable insurance cover.

Rated at insurance group 2E, there’s not a whole lot that’s more affordable than the Furio. Not a lot that you’d be seen dead in, at any rate. Although it’s hardly the sort of car that’ll have the opposite sex walking agog into pavement furniture, the Furio looks a few grades removed from the normal depressing box that most insurance agents direct younger drivers towards. Styling touches which help set the Furio apart from more mainstream C2 models include a rear spoiler, fog lights, colour-coded mouldings, two-tone bolstered sports seats and a leather-bound steering wheel. The C2 1.1i Furio doesn’t want for standard equipment either, offering a CD player, anti lock brakes with electronic brake assist and brakeforce distribution, no fewer than four airbags, remote central locking with deadlocks, as well as electric front windows and door mirrors. This car is so safe you won’t need to ring the parents when you get back home after a weekend lumping them with a term’s worth of dirty underwear. The Furio sits at the bottom of as sporty C2 triumvirate that ascends through VTR versions to the peppy VTS sport hatches. Together, these three trim levels account for over 40 per cent of the C2s that were sold in this country last year. It’s taken other manufacturers a good deal longer to twig that although a 200bhp hatch might make the cover of the glossy car magazines, it’s certainly not going to sell in big numbers. Those who want them can’t afford them and those who can afford them tend to have grown out of that kind of thing. With a price tag of £9,395, the 1.1i Furio is certainly affordable and Citroen will periodically generate deals that can knock up to £1,200 off that price. Couple that with an attractive finance package and you have a car that almost anybody could afford to keep on the road. What’s more, strong demand means that when the time comes to trade up, there will always be a ready queue of takers.

"The C2 1.1-litre Furio isn’t hugely quick off the mark but it’ll be extremely rapid off the showroom floors "

Performance from the 1.1-litre is best described as modest, the 61bhp four-cylinder engine hauling the C2 to 60mph in 14.4 seconds and on to a rather frenetic top speed of 98mph. Fuel economy is, conversely, very good, the C2 averaging 37.1mpg around town, 57.6mpg on a long run with an overall combined fuel figure of 47.9mpg. It’s worth calculating how many miles you drive per year and how many years you plan to own the car before plumping for a pricier diesel version. Chances are the C2 1.1 model will work out as the more economical all-round proposition. The downside of a small petrol engine is that it can feel a little weedy on long inclines and you may need to stir the stick a little to inject some urge. Alternatively, 1.4i and 1.4HDi diesels are also available for buyers seeking a little more punch. Although it shares its chassis, drivetrains and a number of body and interior parts with the C3, don’t think of this car as merely a scaled down version of Citroen’s spherical supermini. The styling marks a different direction with a C3-style bulbous nose allied to a far edgier, angular back end. Although to some it might look like the results of two design studies fused at the door pillars, it’s certainly distinctive. The side windows adopt a staggered line while the rear haunches blister out in a purposeful fashion and the latest models can be identified by a clear section in the tail-light clusters. The C2 Furio maximises its use of available space very effectively. Despite being even shorter than a Saxo, it’s easily able to seat four in comfort. Lessons have been learned from the reception given to the C3 interior and the C2 adopts many of the funkier styling touches such as the ventilation system and the bar rev counter and introduces a few of its own. Interior materials quality has been improved with the introduction of the upmarket dashboard also found in the C3 featuring high-grade plastics and silver detailing. There’s a wide range of trim choices from sober monotones right up to the most extrovert two-tone designs. The steering adjusts for rake and reach in all versions while plusher trims also get a height adjustable seat. Few will have any cause for complaint given the amount of space in the front of the cabin as it feels no smaller than the C3, a car already renowned for its spaciousness. Like the C3, the C2 gets a can holder ahead of the gear lever as well as generously proportioned door bins that can accommodate a 500ml bottle of pop. Access to the rear isn’t bad and Citroen have displayed admirable pragmatism in failing to pretend that the C2 is anything other than a four seater. So many small cars cram three belts in across the back and end up trussing occupants up like a leg of lamb but the two rear seats of the C2 are well sculpted and respectable in terms of knee and shoulder room although taller passengers may feel the sloping roof impinges on their coif. It’s sometimes said that youth is wasted on the young. That may well be true, but looking at the order book for the Citroen C2 shows that this car is definitely appreciated by today’s teens and twentysomethings. The Furio will only add to that appeal and it’s tough to imagine a better first car for the image-conscious youngster.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Citroen C2 Furio 1.1-litre PRICE: £9,395 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 2E CO2 EMISSIONS: 141g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60 14.4s Top Speed 98mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 37.1mpg (extra urban) 57.6mpg (combined) 47.9mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front and side airbags WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/wheelbase 3660/2310mm

CITROEN’S MARKETING GETS MORE AIRPLAY Citroen’s C2 1.1-Litre Airplay+ offers younger drivers good looks without crippling insurance bills. Jonathan Crouch reports

It’s not easy for young drivers to get a foot on the motoring ladder. Insurance costs a fortune. So do finance payments. And that’s just on cheap little boringly designed cars. If you want something a little sassier, then forget it.

Something like a Citroen C2 perhaps? If this French citycar floats your boat, then there’s some good news on the finance front. Rated at insurance group 1 and costing just £7,995 (£400 less than the normal entry-level C2 1.1iL version), new cars don’t get a lot cheaper. Or much greener given that this one puts out just 138g/km of CO2. Assuming that you (or more likely your parents) don’t have £8,000 to put down or even a substantial deposit, it’s also worth knowing that various attractive finance schemes are available At the time of writing, Citroen tell us that an initial payment of £1,299 secures the deal, followed by 25 low rate 7.9% APR monthly payments of £99 on their Elect 3 finance scheme. And to further help buyers unable to stretch to paying much up front, a separate deal allows them to put down a £149 deposit followed by 25 monthly payments of £149. If the terms of the deal have changed by the time you roll up at your local Citroen showroom, then they won’t have done so by much. What you can pretty much guarantee is that the sales person will be able to put you behind the wheel at a price you can afford. But what of the car itself? Well, let’s start with the ‘Airplay+’ bit first. That designates this car as being a special edition model, the ‘Airplay’ bit referring to the fact that this car comes complete with a 4GB colour-coded iPod nano, an integrated docking station that charges the iPod and allows music to be played via the head unit and speakers. Available in ‘Sunshine Yellow’, Black or ‘Arctic Silver’, this C2 is impressively kitted out with air conditioning, electric front windows and door mirrors, remote control central locking, twin airbags and ABS with EBD and EBA.

"New cars don’t get a lot cheaper – or a lot greener "

Performance from the 1.1-litre petrol engine that’s fitted to this variant is best described as modest, the 61bhp four-cylinder engine hauling the C2 to 60mph in 14.4 seconds and on to a rather frenetic top speed of 98mph. Fuel economy is, conversely, very good, this Citroen averaging 37.1mpg around town, 57.6mpg on a long run with an overall combined fuel figure of 47.9mpg. It’s worth calculating how many miles you drive per year and how many years you plan to own the car before plumping for a pricier diesel version. Chances are the C2 1.1 model will work out as the more economical all-round proposition. The downside of a small petrol engine is that it can feel a little weedy on long inclines and you may need to stir the stick a little to inject some urge. Although it shares its chassis, drivetrains and a number of body and interior parts with the C3, don’t think of this car as merely a scaled down version of Citroen’s spherical supermini. The styling marks a different direction with a C3-style bulbous nose allied to a far edgier, angular back end. Although to some it might look like the results of two design studies fused at the door pillars, it’s certainly distinctive. The side windows adopt a staggered line while the rear haunches blister out in a purposeful fashion and the latest models can be identified by a clear section in the tail-light clusters. The C2 maximises its use of available space very effectively. Despite supposedly being a tiny citycar, it’s easily able to seat four in comfort. Lessons have been learned from the reception given to the C3 interior and the C2 adopts many of the funkier styling touches such as the ventilation system and the bar rev counter and introduces a few of its own. Interior materials quality has been improved with the introduction of the upmarket dashboard also found in the C3 featuring high-grade plastics and silver detailing. The steering adjusts for rake and reach and few will have any cause for complaint when it comes to wriggle room, given the amount of space in the front of the cabin, as it feels no smaller than the C3, a car already renowned for its spaciousness. Like the C3, the C2 gets a can holder ahead of the gear lever as well as generously proportioned door bins that can accommodate a 500ml bottle of pop. Access to the rear isn’t bad and Citroen have displayed admirable pragmatism in failing to pretend that the C2 is anything other than a four seater. So many small cars cram three belts in across the back and end up trussing occupants up like a leg of lamb but the two rear seats of the C2 are well sculpted and respectable in terms of knee and shoulder room, although taller passengers may feel the sloping roof impinges on their coif. It’s sometimes said that youth is wasted on the young. That may well be true, but looking at the order book for the Citroen C2 shows that this car is definitely appreciated by today’s teens and twentysomethings. The Airplay+ will only add to that appeal and it’s tough to imagine a better first car for the image-conscious youngster.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Citroen C2 Airplay+ PRICE: £7,995 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 1E CO2 EMISSIONS: 141g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 14.4s / Max Speed 98mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 37.1mpg / (extra urban) 57.6mpg / (combined) 47.9mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin airbags, ABS with EBD and EBA WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/wheelbase 3660/2310mm

ECO WARRIOR With the C2 VTS HDi, Citroen is relying on sporty hatchback buyers wanting to go green. Fortunately, the car will save its owners a few bob too. Steve Walker reports

The range-topping model in the Citroen C2 line-up, the VTS HDi offers a fun drive, warm hatchback performance and impressive green credentials. For most, this diesel option will be preferable over the petrol VTS but with a number of other sporty oil-burning superminis on the market, the car’s excellent fuel economy and low emissions will be crucial to securing sales.

As signs of just how comprehensively the big green issue has permutated the nation’s motoring consciousness go, the Citroen C2 VTS 1.6HDi is a good one. You can understand manufacturers peddling the environmental line to MPV buyers concerned over the sort of world their offspring’s generation will inherit or cynical executives seeking to cultivate an eco-friendly image for themselves and their companies but boy and girl racers? Since when did the interest of the Max Power generation extend beyond vehicles with earth trembling exhaust notes and stereo systems designed for the express purpose of waking the dead? You just have to hope Citroen knows what it’s doing. Citroen may well have brought something like the C2 VTS 1.6HDi to market five years ago but whether it would have marketed the car as a "mean, green, performance machine" is doubtful. The car market, and the warm hatchback sector in particular, just wasn’t very clued up on environmental issues back then. Today, we’ve largely collated the clues, commissioned the forensic reports and dropped the case file off with the crown prosecution service. What modern motorists haven’t been told about global warming and climate change isn’t worth knowing but if you wade through all the chaff, one fact tends to stick. Now and increasingly in the future, green cars will save us money. Even the Burberry-clad tribe from your local McDonalds Drive-Thru will appreciate that one. The environmentally-friendly warm hatchback isn’t a genre that the leading manufacturers have done to death but Citroen is never shy when it comes to exploiting a convenient niche. The standard C2 VTS comes with a 1.6-litre 123bhp petrol engine but the HDi version gets a 110bhp 1.6-litre diesel. It’s still fast, achieving 0-60mph in 9.4s compared to 8.3s in the petrol car, but as tends to be the case in the old petrol vs diesel debate, it’s the oil-burner’s torque that delivers a killer blow.

"A mean, green, performance machine?"

If you’ve tried the petrol C2 VTS, you’ll know that it’s a buzzy little thing that really needs to be revved hard if it’s to give up its best performance. 6,500rpm yields the peak power output and at that engine speed, you almost expect to see a council official in hot pursuit clutching a noise abetment order. The VTS is ideal for its target market in many respects – a fun little car that looks, sounds and feels faster than it actually is. The 1.6 HDi derivative is slower but it feels just as quick if not quicker by virtue of its 260Nm maximum torque, which is 80% more than the petrol model. It’s more flexible and punchy at the speeds you’re forced to do around town. Despite being a diesel, when worked hard it may actually be quieter too - aftermarket bean can exhaust notwithstanding. The overall driving experience in the C2 VTS is immediate and enjoyable, if lacking a little in terms of finesse. The ride is firm thanks to its stiffened suspension but that helps it grip and corner with some menace. The brakes are extremely aggressive with the merest brush of the middle pedal bringing you to a screeching halt but you do get used to them. The steering could use a little more feedback and the five-speed manual gearbox is on the floppy side but in general, it’s hard to argue with the amount of fun being served up for the price involved. ESP and four airbags are included, which will go some way toward setting parents’ minds at rest. The looks of the C2 certainly lend themselves to warm-hatch conversion. The curving nose and asymmetric window line are trademark features with the wheelarches bulging out from the supermini’s slab sides. The VTS emphasises its sporting edge with side sills and bumpers that lower the stance as well as a subtle roof spoiler at the back. Inside, the dark plastics are of acceptable quality and the design is neat but there’s nothing to get over-excited about. Space is generous for front seat passengers and less so for those in the back, while the split-opening tailgate hides a modest luggage area. The simple ball and socket air-vents are a clever piece of design and, finished in silver, these do raise the tone in an otherwise moribund cabin. The buttons on the centre console are large, chunky and solid to the touch, as is the fat handbrake lever. Storage space is less of a strongpoint with only a seriously confined glovebox and a couple of narrow door pockets to speak of in the front and just enough room for a large holdall or similar in the boot. Rear seat accommodation seems seriously confined when you glance over your shoulder from the front but climb back there and things aren’t so bad. The long base section to the seats means that two adults could be accommodated on a short journey so long as the front seats aren’t in Peter Crouch mode. The C2 VTS HDi retails for just under £14,000 but as always with Citroen, be on the lookout for regular cashback deals. The diesel actually comes in at £1,000 more expensive than the petrol alternative. It’s undeniably a better car and with its lower running costs, most buyers will just about be able to justify the premium but it’s a close run thing. As the range-topping model, the VTS HDi comes well-equipped with air-conditioning and 16" ‘Cheetah’ alloy wheels amongst the highlights. Some of the alternatives to the Citroen do look appealing with Fiat’s diesel Grande Punto Sporting and SEAT’s comparable Ibiza both undercutting the car on price. To plump for the C2 VTS HDi over either of these larger, faster cars, you’ll have to really value the C2’s superior fuel economy or collect one of those Citroen cashback deals to sharpen-up that value proposition. The green issue will be crucial to the fortunes of the C2 VTS 1.6HDi. With some serious competition in the rapid diesel supermini category, the car will rely on its exemplary emissions and fuel economy in order to gain a foothold. Fortunately, the VTS HDi is a real eco-warrior. On the combined cycle, the little Citroen chips in with a 64mpg average. Get it out on the open road and that increases to 74mpg, although a more indicative figure may be the 49mpg it achieves around town. For a small car with performance pretensions, this is impressive stuff and the 119g/km CO2 emissions figure will also do its bit your bank balance - not to mention the polar ice caps. The absence of serious heart-stopping performance will also help make the C2 VTS HDi an affordable car to insure. That’s another tick in the plus column for the younger drivers that the vehicle is pitched squarely at. The big question where the Citroen C2 VTS 1.6HDi is concerned is as follows. Are the nation’s warm hatchback buyers concerned enough about the environment to purchase a vehicle that counts fuel economy and low emissions as its key strengths? They may not be but they probably are concerned enough about saving money and in today’s taxation climate, that and green considerations increasingly go hand in hand. The C2 VTS HDi is a sporty looking and feeling hatchback with a raw urgency that makes it fun to scoot about in. Performance is reasonable and the diesel engine’s low down muscle makes it a benign companion when you’re not haring around like a Tasmanian Devil with attention deficit disorder. The best bits though are the 64mpg average economy and the 119g/km emissions. With the C2 VTS HDi, the green choice is also the fun, affordable choice and that has to be the best way of encouraging people to make it.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Citroen C2 VTS 1.6HDi 16V PRICE: £13,699 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 6 CO2 EMISSIONS: 119g/km PERFORMANCE: Top Speed 120mph 0-60mph 9.4s FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 49.9 (extra urban) 74.4 (combined) 64mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front and side airbags / ABS with EBD and EBA / ESP WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/width/height 3666/1659/1451mm

POWER WITHOUT THE CORRUPTION We’re nearing the end of our long term stint with the car that most identifies the future Max Power generation – Citroen’s C2 VTS. Can it make sense to those of us not into handbrake turns and cam tuning? Jonathan Crouch reports…

If Citroen’s C2 VTS typifies the spirit of the new Max Power generation, then maybe middle class England needn’t worry. Here’s a Hot Hatch that is clean, safe and not overly fast. It’s even quite visually restrained. All of this, you’d think, wouldn’t endear the car to those into drainpipe exhausts and go-faster furry dice. You’d be wrong however. All the signs are that this hotted-up little Citroen is taking up where it’s Saxo VTR and VTS predecessors left off.

It was to find out why that we added this C2 to our long term test fleet and it’s rarely been without an enthusiastic keeper ever since. That’s more unusual than it might sound. Hot Hatches tend to have a sharp but short appeal, with the buzz wearing off when the downsides in noise, hard ride and practicality become apparent. This car has proved to be different. Maybe we should have expected as much. After all, Citroen have been quite open about the compromises made to give this car a broader appeal. They could, for example, have given the VTS much more power than the 125bhp actually on offer. But that would have upped the £12,895 asking price and certainly upped the group 8 insurance. The 40mpg combined fuel consumption figure would have taken a nose-dive too. All this has ensured that the flagship C2 has been well received by those who have to use it as everyday transport. More surprising has been the reaction of those young ‘Max Power’-generation customers who see it as a starting point. These people wouldn’t have thanked Citroen for going all the way with potent engines and wild bodykits. These things can be added according to (dubious) taste. What they wanted was a good chassis, cheap insurance and easy finance – and Citroen have happily provided all three.

"You could spend twice as much on a Hot Hatch and in many situations, end up not having as much fun…"

The 125bhp engine offers up its power in a very smooth, linear fashion. There are no discernable flat spots in the rev range where you’re left twiddling your thumbs waiting for the acceleration to kick in. Instead, the high-revving unit promptly oozes into action whenever you tickle the throttle. This means that overtaking is rarely a chore and, in proper sportscar style, the real fun is to be had when you venture into the screaming upper extremities of the rev range. Conversely, the real bonus so far as this engine’s measured power delivery is concerned, is in it’s relaxed low speed performance. Like it or not, most C2 VTS models will be spending most of there time pottering around town at 30 or 40mph but the car is quite at home in this scenario. Unlike many more focused hatchbacks, you don’t feel like the engine is chomping at the bit as you crawl along in traffic. The VTS is much like a regular 1.4 supermini until you ease the power on and let the engine note rise, then 0-60mph in 8.1s is on the cards. Keep things sensible and 40mpg average fuel consumption might be achievable - that’s definitely more regular 1.4 supermini than hot hatchback. The suspension on the VTS has a pronounced sporty edge but the feedback from the wheels that you need in a hot hatch isn’t too intrusive. Speed humps present little problem, either in terms of grounding at the front or the catapulting of rear seat passengers into the roof lining, and manhole covers aren’t made to feel like cattle grids. The front end has plenty of grip with the traction control intervening only under serious provocation or in slippery conditions and the steering is accurate on the turn in. Driving another car then getting behind the wheel of the C2 VTS, it’s important to make a mental note concerning the brakes. There’s some considerable travel on the middle pedal but when the ventilated discs bite, they do so in tenacious fashion. It’s easy to apply them a little too firmly in an absentminded moment, in which case a look in the rear-view mirror at the sheepish face of the driver behind should be indication enough of how abruptly the C2 has halted. Of course, when it comes to avoiding accidents, anchors this effective could be invaluable and there’s ABS, EBA and EBD to ensure optimum stopping power is always applied. So far as the other key controls go, the gearchange is not the slickest you’ll come across with its loose, long-throw action but the thick steering wheel feels good in the hand. The drilled aluminium pedals look the part but caution is required in the wet because a damp-soled trainer can easily slip from the polished surface at an inopportune moment. Dark grey plastic predominates inside the cabin of the VTS and although it may be a trifle dull for some tastes, the quality of the materials is good. The simple ball and socket air-vents are an ingenious piece of design and, along with their silver boarders, these do much to raise the tone. The buttons on the centre console are large, chunky and solid to the touch as is the fat handbrake lever, you get the impression that the VTS will stand the test of time with some aplomb. Storage space is less of a strongpoint with only a seriously confined glovebox and a couple of narrow door pockets to speak of in the cab and just enough room for a large holdall or similar in the boot. Rear seat accommodation seems confined when you glance over your shoulder from the front but climb back there and things aren’t so bad. The long base section to the seats means that two adults could be accommodated on a short journey so long as the front seats aren’t in their rearmost positions. As you may have gathered, we’ve enjoyed our time with this car a lot more than we expected to. You could spend twice as much on a Hot Hatch and in many situations, end up not having as much fun. Whoever would have thought that joining the Max Power generation could make this much sense?

Facts At A Glance CAR: Citroen C2 VTS 1.6 16v PRICES: £12,895 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 8 CO2 EMISSIONS: 163g/km PERFORMANCE: Top Speed 126mph 0-60mph 8.1s FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 30.4 (extra urban) 52.3 (combined) 40.9mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front and side airbags / ABS with EBD and EBA WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/width/height 3666/1659/1451mm

A HARD ACT TO FOLLOW Citroen’s C2 VTR finds itself filling some illustrious shoes. This car’s predecessor, the old Saxo VTR, was a huge hit but Citroen are confident that the C2 is made of the right stuff. Andy Enright reports…

Certain cars are born great, others have greatness thrust upon them. Then there’s another category of cars that have pimply adolescents thrust upon them. Into this final category came the Citroen Saxo VTR – a car that developed a cult following amongst those who craved performance and style but couldn’t stomach big insurance bills. Such was the success of the VTR model that it came to account for a disproportionate percentage of total Saxo sales, giving Citroen a decidedly peachy bottom line. Time, however, caught up with the Saxo and as ever more sophisticated rivals waded in, a replacement was sought. In the distinctly unconventional shape of the C2 VTR, Citroen reckon they’ve found it.

After the familiar form of the Saxo, the C2 VTR comes as something of a shock. Unlike many cars that create a sudden negative or affirmative response regarding their styling, the C2 provoked a riot of discussion about whether that ‘round at the front, sharp at the back’ shape worked. The closest we could get to consensus was that it looked at first striking, then awkward but once you took time to get your eye used to it, yes it did work. What’s beyond any reasonable doubt is that the VTR version looks a whole heap better than the standard shopping trolley version. With a chunky sill and spoiler kit as well as 16-inch alloy wheels and colour-keyed bumpers, the VTR does a great job of walking the fine line between aggression and juvenility. So many manufacturers try to create a sporting hatch and just end up producing a car that few over the age of twenty-two would ever be seen dead in. With a long pedigree of producing credible performance hatches, Citroen haven’t fallen into that particular trap. Powered (in the form that most people buy) by a 110bhp 1.6-litre 16-valve engine, the VTR walks the walk too, accelerating to 60mph in 10.7 seconds and running on to a top speed of 121mph. Of course, this isn’t premier league hot hatch territory but neither is the Group 6 insurance rating – one of the key attractions for younger customers. They’ll also give thanks to the VTR’s ability to average 45mpg in everyday driving conditions. If you want to better that, there are more affordable 1.4-litre petrol and diesel VTR derivatives priced from £10,395. Citroen have been spectacularly successful in offering incentives that have lured young drivers to embark upon the Citroen way and the VTR is bound to be no different. Look for cashbacks and free insurance offers and if none are forthcoming, try the Citroen dealer down the road.

"The C2 VTR does a great job of walking the fine line between aggression and juvenility"

It’s impossible to carp about the C2 VTR value proposition. Weighing in at £12,195 as a 1.6-litre petrol model, if you take underlying inflation into account, the VTR works out at less than its sparsely equipped Saxo predecessor retailed at seven years ago and it’s equipped with a semi-automatic Sensodrive gearbox. It’s now accompanied by a 125bhp VTS model priced at £800 more and a VTS HDi alternative which comes in at £1,000 more again but the VTR is still likely to be the big seller. Despite being even shorter than a Saxo, the VTR is easily able to seat four in comfort. Lessons have been learned from the reception given to the C3 interior and the C2 adopts many of the funkier styling touches such as the ventilation system and the bar rev counter and introduces a few of its own. Interior materials quality has been improved with the introduction of the upmarket dashboard also found in the C3 featuring high-grade plastics and silver detailing. There’s a wide range of trim choices from sober monotones right up to the most extrovert two-tone designs. The steering adjusts for rake and reach plus there’s a height adjustable seat. Few will have any cause for complaint given the amount of space in the front of the cabin as it feels no smaller than the C3, a car already renowned for its spaciousness. Like the C3, the C2 gets a can holder ahead of the gear lever as well as generously proportioned door bins that can accommodate a 500ml bottle of pop. Access to the rear isn’t bad and Citroen have displayed admirable pragmatism in failing to pretend that the C2 is anything other than a four seater. So many small cars cram three belts in across the back and end up trussing occupants up like a leg of lamb but the two rear seats of the C2 are well sculpted and respectable in terms of knee and shoulder room although taller passengers may feel the sloping roof impinges on their coif. The VTR also gets the rear seat system where the seats individually slide, recline, fold and tumble. This allows the owner to optimise luggage or passenger space by sliding the seats on runners but in order to fold the rear seats fully flat, the front ones need to be run a long way forward, precluding this possibility for long legged drivers and front passengers. It’s also fitted with a tailgate that splits into two sections to ease loading in tight spots. With a number of safety features that include twin front and side airbags on all models and power assisted steering across the range, the C2 VTR looks a decent buy. Big car features like anti lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist are fitted as standard as are sports seats and even cruise control – surely a first for such a tiny car. If you really want to push the boat out, the VTR can be specified with Citroen’s RT3 system, incorporating a voice activated phone, satellite navigation and a five-disc CD autochanger. Owners and insurers alike will be relieved to hear that Citroen has fitted a proper Thatcham-approved anti-theft alarm as standard. The C2 VTR has a serious weight of expectation resting upon its little shoulders. So far it seems to bearing up extremely well.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Citroen C2 VTR range PRICES: £10,395-£12,195 - on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 3-6 CO2 EMISSIONS: 113-151g/km PERFORMANCE: [1.6 16v] Max Speed 121mph / 0-60mph 10.7s FUEL CONSUMPTION: [1.6 16v] (combined) 45.9mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front and side airbags / ABS with EBD and EBA WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/wheelbase 3660/2310mm

SIPPING THE BALANCE If fuel economy is as important as cheeky styling, the little Citroen C2 1.4 HDi could well appeal. Andy Enright reports…

I don’t know whether to laugh or cry when I hear American colleagues bemoaning the fact that fuel costs are running at about one dollar seventy per gallon. Downsizing from a monster truck to a mere Humvee might be their idea of saving the planet but here in the UK, we have a very different perspective on cutting fuel bills which has resulted in cars that are not only very economical but also huge fun to drive. The Citroen C2 1.4-litre HDi is a case in point.

Wind the clock back a few years and the concept of a city tot with a diesel engine offer