First Drive
Citroën C2 1.6 HDi VTS
Test date 18 August 2008
Price as tested £13,995
What is it?
The facelifted C2, which gets a redesigned bumper and radiator grille, and very little else.
The 108bhp 1.6-litre HDI diesel engine remains the same as in the pre-facelift Citroen C2, and the price also remains unchanged.
What’s it like?
Ageing. The Citroen C2 has been around since 2003 and the cabin is feeling it. This, and the very noisy engine, are by far the biggest let downs, with the rubbery, long-throw gear shift coming a close third for levels of disappointment.
However, this being the diesel, you do get plenty of entertaining torque, real-world economy of well over 50mpg (Citroen claims 64.2mpg combined) and external styling that still looks fresh and modern.
The driving experience is not as good as that of the petrol 1.6 petrol VTS, but for many the added economy and low CO2 of 119g/km will be enough of an added bonus to make the oil-burner the C2 VTS of choice.
Should I buy one?
No. At this price the Citroen C2 is totally outclassed by more modern rivals, with or without the savings of its diesel engine. Avoid.
Vicky Parrott
First drive data
How much?
- Price as tested £13,995
- Price as tested £14,745
How fast?
- 0-62 mph 9.4 sec
- Max speed 120 mph
How big?
How thirsty?
- Combined 64.2 mpg
- CO2 emissions 119 g/km
Engine
- Layout 4 , 1560 cc
- Max power 109 bhp at 4000 rpm
- Max torque 192 lb ft at 2000 rpm
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