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Performance

The Citroen C2 comes with three petrol engines and one diesel to choose from. The 1.1 petrol with 61bhp is perky enough it but soon runs of acceleration puff. The larger 75bhp, 1.4-litre gives greater flexibility through the gears and is more suited to faster, motorway driving. The 1.4 HDi turbo diesel is refined, with lots of torque at low speeds. The 1.6-litre fitted to the VTR and VTS only, with 110 and 125bhp respectively, gives plenty of power for such a little car. Throttle response is sharp and the car squeals forwards with eagerness. The VTR can only be had with a five-speed SensoDrive sequential transmission with paddles.

Driving

Based on a shortened C3 chassis the C2 copes reasonably well with bumps in the road, although larger potholes can be felt in the cabin. Thanks to excellent grip the C2 is fun through the corners and has very little body roll, but the electric steering can feel limp at high speeds.

Space

The C2's front space is generous, but its rear legroom can be limited for taller adults. However, on higher specification models the two individual rear seats slide backwards and forwards to provide more space for passengers - or boot. The tailgate is split, aiding access.

Build Quality

The C2's interior is well built and feels solid. However, the VTR's lurid-colour seats and translucent gear knob may not to be to everyone's tastes. Plus, slam the door and it can sound slightly tinny. No worries with the engines though, since they've proved to be durable in other models.

Equipment

All models have remote control central locking. The basic L is just that, basic, with no CD-player and has to make do with manual window winders. The SX adds air-conditioning and front electric windows, and the VTR and VTS have alloys and cruise control. The 1.1 L and 1.4 Furio are all available with an automatic gearbox and it's standard fitment on the VTR.

Safety Car

Twin front and side airbags are standard throughout the range, as is ABS. Traction control is fitted on the VTS but it's only an option for the VTR. The C2 scored well in EuroNCAP's crash tests with a four-star overall rating, and it was awarded three out of five stars for child safety.

Owning

With low insurance, inexpensive servicing and good carbon dioxide emissions the C2 is cheap to run, especially the HDi that has a mpg figure of nearly 70. Residual prices aren't that great except for the two VT versions that have a strong following

Value

Expect the C2's already low list prices to be improved by Citroen's common discounts. The fast VTR isn't cheap at £11,500 but you do receive a lot of kit (and fun) for your money.

Verdict

An easy-to-drive supermini that's as fun behind the wheel as it is to look at. It's well priced and cheap to run, but it's not the most practical of cars having only three doors and a tiny boot. We can't help but like it though.

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