BIG may be beautiful, but when it comes to a nippy little hatchback that has bundles of room, the Citroen C3 model has plenty of appeal.
The French giant recently introduced a sporty version of its C3 hatchback model in the guise of the 120mph VTR and that's what was supplied for the test drive.
With sleek lines and attractive curves the C3 certainly has the looks, and appearances are definitely deceptive when it comes to size.
Although the five-door C3 looks fairly compact, open the door and it's like stepping into the Tardis - there is ample legroom inside for four adults to sit in comfort and the boot is quite plentiful too.
Elsewhere there are numerous little storage spaces tucked away throughout the vehicle including under the seats.
Beneath the bonnet lies a 1.6-litre engine with 110bhp to give 120mph performance and a 0-62mph acceleration time of just under 10 seconds with 40mpg economy.
Handling is excellent both in and around town and on the open road with excellent all-round visibility.
Another impressive fact is the high specification range that is supplied for a little more than £12,500. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, electric front windows and a CD player with steering wheel controls. Many other manufacturers would be ringing up the pound signs with all these extras, but not so Citroen.
Safety is another factor that has not been overlooked. The C3 boasts amongst others an Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, driver, passenger and lateral airbags, Emergency Braking Assist, automatic activation of hazard lights and automatic door and boot locking when in motion.
All in all, the C3 is excellent value for money, extremely economical, has great looks and would be perfect for the city dweller looking for an easy-to-park, nippy little hatchback.
FAST FACTS
Citroen C3 1.6i VTR 5dr
Price: £12,595
Mechanical: 110bhp, 1,587cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 119mph
0-62mph: 9.7secs
Combined mpg: 43.5
Insurance group: 6
CO2 emissions: 155g/km
BiK rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 3yrs paint; 12yrs anti-rust