THE Citroen C2’s odd, chunky look may not appeal to all, but it’s a fun choice for a three door supermini.
Despite the fact that it’s a little more upright than some others, the handling and road-holding are excellent.
Engines range up from a 61bhp 1.1, to a 1.6 with 125bhp and marvellous performance.
There is also a 1.4 turbo diesel which has 70bhp but because it is very economical, it is much more sought after second-hand and therefore worth a lot more.
The 75bhp 1.4 and the 110bhp 1.6 are the best bet giving 42-46mpg and great performance.
Mechanical reliability is good, but interiors can get rough without care, so check them over carefully.
There are a lot about, so be picky and only go for the best – with that all important service history of course.
Top of the range VTS is very quick, but has stiffened suspension giving a pretty harsh and occasionally uncomfortable ride.
Interior
Quite a few are fitted with Citroen’s five-speed Sensodrive gearbox – a clutchless manual that can be used as a full automatic but it is not for those who enjoy their driving.
Air conditioning only comes with SX upwards but base models still have remote locking and four airbags. Rear legroom is small and so is the boot.
FAST FACTS
Citroen C2
Price: Pay about £2,840 for an ’03 53-reg Furio, or £4,500 for an ’06 56-reg SX
Mechanical: 75bhp, 1,360cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 105mph
0-62mph: 11.8 seconds
Combined mpg: 47
Insurance group: 3
CO2 emissions: 143g/km
BIK rating: 15%
Marks: 8/10
Main rival: Ford Ka