CITROEN launched its cool C2 just as summer ended and unashamedly admitted that they were aiming at the younger market.
Indeed the C2 is aimed directly at the same people who turned the bland Saxo into a trendy form of transport.
Wild colour schemes coupled with an interior obviously designed to appeal to the young motorist add to its appeal and so do Citroen's many special offers.
The Saxo has played a huge part in Citroen's success over the past few years with its free insurance, cash backs and other 'special' deals, and this marketing policy is continuing with the new C2 range.
I have just spent a week with the recently introduced C2 VTR and was delighted to find that the little machine was painted in silver rather than one of the wackier colours that makes it stick out like a sore thumb.
Its sharp styling already draws enough attention without the aid of a wild colour scheme.
Over a quarter of a million Saxos were sold in the UK, so you can see it is really important that this newcomer does well for the company. And there is no reason to believe that it will be any less successful.
The VTR is a warm hatch rather than a blisteringly hot one, but you can still get plenty of fun out of the 1.6-litre engine which punts out 108bhp.
It takes 10.9 seconds to reach 62mph, so it won't pin you back in the seat, but it does go on to 121mph, more than enough for a car this size and way too much for most young drivers.
The chassis is well set-up and and it is a fine little performer on a variety of roads but especially good fun around town.
The interior is super for its target market with snazzy trim in vibrant colours (the test car was in blue) with matching translucent door handles and many other original touches.
The dash also includes swivelling eye-ball air vents and a digital speedo.
A split tailgate makes for easy loading and the rear seat can slide back and forth to increase legroom or bootspace, whichever is needed. They also fold to create more cargo space if needed.
Room is surprisingly good, although it is clearly designed for a maximum of four. There is plenty head and shoulder room and enough stowage space for most owners. The large glass area allows in plenty of light and this adds to the feel good factor.
The steering is superb with the car responding quickly to commands and the ride comfort is very good for a car of this size.
Now for the bad news. The VTR is only available with Citroen's clutchless SensoDrive. You simply can't buy an ordinary manual.
You operate this by flicking the paddles situated behind the steering wheel or by moving the gear lever forward or back. You can also elect to leave it in full auto and let the car do all the work.
Frankly it's dreadful in all of its modes. It is a complete and utter waste of space; it is jerky, slow to respond and - sorry I could go on and on - just plain awful!
Basically this is a fine little car which is spoiled by the Playstation gearbox.If Citroen gets around to fitting a manual transmission it will be much more desirable.
It should cost £10,995. However, you will certainly get it for less and you even land free insurance or some other tasty New Year treat courtesy of Citroen's latest "special" offers.
FAST FACTS
Citroen C2 VTR
Price: £10,995
Mechanical: 108bhp, 1,600cc4 cyl petrol engine driving front wheels through SensoDrive semi-automatic/ manual gearbox.
Max speed: 121mph
0-62mph: 10.9 seconds
Combined mpg: 44.8mpg
Insurance group: 6
CO2 emissions: 151g/km
BiK rating: 15%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 12yrs anti-rust; 3yrs paint