WHAT do most people consider when they are looking for a new car?
Is it price, size, image, practicality or economy? Well, it's probably all of these and more. So it makes me think that Citroen has got it dead right with its superb new C4.
The French company's new hatchback and coupe, which competes in the most fiercely competitive sector of the new car market, presses all the right buttons.
Priced from £11,095, it's great value for money, and with Citroen constantly offering money-off deals and other incentives you could probably snap one up for less than the recommended price.
As far as size goes the C4 is roomy, light and airy inside and will take five adults in comfort.
In the style stakes it's a breath of fresh air in this sector. Its quirky looks may not appeal to everyone but Citroen has tried to give the C4 an eye-catching outline which can't be ignored.
As for practicality and choice of models, Citroen is offering 22 variants, including a choice of eight engines in its hatchback and coupe versions.
As for economy the 1.6 HDI 92bhp diesel will give you a claimed 60.1mpg on a combined run with the smallest petrol engine, the 1.4i 16v offering 44mpg.
The C4 is the first all-new Citroen to feature the company's new corporate look. The front end shows off the boomerang headlamp design and chrome double chevron grille and nearly all models come fitted with alloys.
Inside, the cabin is stylish and modern with a neat and tidy dashboard. The steering wheel has a unique feature. It has a fixed central hub around which are located key controls. The wheel turns but the fixed hub means you can use the controls even when cornering.
Another first is the air freshener, which can be used on models with air conditioning. Owners can select a choice of nine scents and, by slotting a cartridge into the diffuser next to the air vent, can have the fragrance they desire.
On some versions, including the VTS 180 I drove on test, you can also have a lane departure warning system. This clever device uses sensors to detect if the car is drifting across lanes, maybe because the driver is nodding off or losing concentration.
If the indicators have not been activated and the car's speed is above 50mph, the system alerts the driver via a vibrating mechanism in the seat.
So what's the C4 like on the road? It has a really solid feel, almost Germanic in quality.
The VTS coupe, the most expensive petrol model at £17,195, gave me a thrilling ride. With 180bhp under the bonnet it's no slouch.
Top speed is claimed at 141mph and the 8.3 seconds sprint time from rest to 62mph ensures good overtaking prowess.
Handling is good with plenty of feedback coming to the driver through the wheel and as with all PSA products, the suspension is first class, soaking up bumps and potholes with ease.
There is very little road noise inside the cabin when travelling at maximum on motorways, but unfortunately, badly fitted window rubbers on the driver's side resulted in a whining wind noise at high speed.
The VTS 180 test car was fully loaded with security, comfort and safety features which included cruise control, air conditioning, power steering, tinted windows, one-touch electric front windows, leather steering wheel, heated folding door mirrors, and sports seats.
Safety equipment included ABS, emergency brake assist, front, side and window airbags, tyre pressure warning system, remote central locking with deadlocks, laminated side windows and anti-theft alarm.
The Citroen TV advert shows the C4 in dance mode. Citroen itself should be jumping with joy over its new C4. It's a real winner.
FAST FACTS
Citroen C4 2.0 VTS Coupe
Price: £17,195
Mechanical: 180bhp, 1,997cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 141mph
0-62mph: 8.3 secs
Combined mpg: 33.6
Insurance group: 15
CO2 emissions: 200g/km
BiK Rating: 27%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 3yrs paint; 12yrs anti-rust