Citroen C2

   The Citroen C2 is produced since 2003.

   There is a choice of three petrol engines and one diesel. The entry-level 1.1-liter petrol is economical, but short on performance. A larger 1.4-liter unit gives some more flexibility. This engine is available with a Sensodrive paddle-shift gearbox. A 1.4-liter turbodiesel is worth buying just with intention to save one fuel bills. Otherwise this engine is inferior to petrols.

   The Citroen C2 has a shortened platform of the C3, which copes reasonably with urban roads, however larger potholes can be felt. This small car also corners well and is fun to drive. On the downside there is a power steering, which feels lifeless at the motorway speed.

   The petrol engines are hushed around town, but become coarse as the revs go up. The turbodiesel also becomes noisy when pushed hard. Some wind and road noise is present at the motorway speed, but it do not makes you to raise the voice during conversation.

   The Citroen C2 has a respectable price. All engines are fuel efficient and have low emissions, particularly the 1.4-liter turbodiesel. Servicing costs also shouldn't brake your wallet. However when it comes to selling your car the C2 is far from sticking to it's value well. This car shares many of mechanical components with the Citroen C3, but it's reliability is no better than average. Engines should be trouble-free though.

   Inside the car interior looks and quality are also average. A 2005 facelift improved some of the cabin materials, but interior is still far from being among the best in it's class. Much of the C2's dashboard is taken from it's bigger brother. It has clear instruments and simple and user-friendly controls.

   The steering wheel adjusts for height and reach, while the driver's seat moves for height in all but the entry-level models. Despite the Citroen C2's small size, there is a good head- and legroom for the driver.

   The rear legroom is cramped on the entry-level models. On the higher-spec models the two individual rear seats can be slid or tilted forwards to provide more space. Despite that they are best kept for children. The C2 has a small boot, but it has an easy access by lifting the upper half of the split tailgate and dropping the lower section. This feature allows to load easily heavy items.

   Front airbags are standard on all models, while the two cheapest trims lack side airbags. Curtain airbags are available on the top-spec models. The Citroen C2 received a four-star Euro NCAP crash tests rating out of five possible. It should also be resistant to thieves, considering that it's bigger brother is a hard nut to drive away.

   The entry-level L trim comes with a trip computer and remote central locking. The range topping SX trim comes is well equipped and has an air conditioning besides other goodies. Optional equipment includes cruise control, leather sears and some other goodies.

   Production of the Citroen C2 still continues.

   Advantages: The C2 looks nicely and drives decently. It's fun character is well mated to low price and low running costs. A choice of four engines should suit different needs.

   Disadvantages: The rear accommodation is tight for adults. Power steering feels lifeless.

   Verdict: Good looks and fun to drive, but cramped.

   Also consider: Fiat Panda, Ford Ka.

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