Citroen C2 1.6 HDi VTS

Costs

Entry-level models with their modest engines will prove to be the least costly to own and run. Low insurance coupled with low CO2 ratings and high fuel economy make them ideal for buyers on a budget. The combination of attention-grabbing showroom deals and a competitive market haven't done wonders for the car's residuals, though.

Space and practicality

The C2's four-seat layout makes the most use of the available space. It also makes the small boot almost irrelevant - one or both rear seats can fold to make even more room available. The split rear tailgate is a useful addition, while there are enough cabin storage areas to make the C2 a viable everyday car for anyone with a busy life and a lot of clutter.

Controls and display

Displaying a similarity to the controls used in Citroen's C3, the C2's fascia is easy to navigate. The main items are easy on the eye, although the rev counter is sometimes difficult to see with the steering wheel in a low position. The manual gearshift is light but not always precise, while the brakes are sharp - an old Citroen trait.

Comfort

The VTS is inevitably less comfortable than lesser models thanks to the stiffer ride, although the front seats offer greater support. Noise levels are acceptably low for a car of this size. There's less space in the rear, but this shouldn't deter children from riding in the back seats.

Car security

Predictably, it's the high value models that come with the all-encompassing anti-theft package. However, elsewhere you do get an immobiliser, and there's a useful automatic door locking function that activates at speeds over 5mph.

Car safety

Twin front and side airbags along with three-point seatbelts front and rear are the norm. The smaller the car the more vulnerable it is in an impact, but the C2 comes with a tough structure and ample crumple zones.

Driver appeal

The VTS model is the obvious option for keen drivers, with the other models more comfortable in delivering relaxed town driving experiences. With a wide torque band and a snappy gearchange, making rapid progress is effortless. Acceleration is good even from higher speeds. The chassis is also up to the task, with accurate steering, good grip and balance.

Family car appeal

As a second car the C2 scores highly, but it's too small to be a main family car in its own right. An ideal candidate for a newly-qualified but image-conscious teen or a nanny, but the C2 isn't big enough for even a growing family on its own.

First car appeal

An ideal choice, the C2 makes a great first car. Cheap to buy and run, easy to drive and park plus practical and versatile enough for a young couple to use as their only car.

Quality and image

The C2 certainly feels like a step up for Citroen in terms of small car quality, although it cannot claim to be the best in class. A few areas of the cabin feel a little under par, but the general standard is quite good. The C2's image benefits from a strong following for its predecessor, and the VTS has instant kudos as a hot hatch.

Accessibility

Access to the front seats requires sitting down rather than sliding in - and some elderly drivers might find this a problem. Likewise the figure-hugging seat bolsters could prove to be uncomfortable for some larger occupants. The rear seats are only suitable for small children, an issue compounded by the limited access to the rear.

Stereo and ICE (In car entertainment)

The standard fit combined radio and CD unit delivers a good performance. Options include a dash-mounted CD player. Steering column-mounted remote controls are a welcome addition.

Colours and trim

This very colour-sensitive car looks at its best in neutral tones. Black and silver are two top choices, while brighter hues tend to give it an unjustified novelty car appearance. Seat upholstery is more upbeat in the VTS and a welcome foil for the cabin's otherwise default dark ambience.

Parking

There are no problems here; the C2's compact proportions, high levels of steering assistance and a neat turning circle make parking easy. Rear parking sensors are model dependent and a cost option, but even nervous parkers should find it a simple car to stow.

Spare wheel

Space saver fitted beneath the boot floor.