Citroen C2 2004 Review

The VTR is an entirely separate model and not merely an enhanced standard version.

Although it sits on Citroen's "Platform One", which is shared with the C3, there are no common body panels and, with its lower roof line and shorter overhangs, along with its dynamically different styling, the C2 presents a very different character to the C3.

Starting from the ground, it has 16 inch alloy wheels with the extremely low profile 45 series tyres.

This sporting profile continues inside.

The gear knob and door handles are finished in translucent plastic that is colour matched to the cloth trim used in the door panels and the side bolster sections of the standard sports seats. The centre sections of the seats use a special form of cloth similar in design to that used in top end training shoes that allows substantially more air ventilation than normal cloth.

Despite being smaller in length and height than the C3 and sitting on a smaller wheelbase, the interior of the C2 is only slightly smaller.

As expected of the top of the range performance model, equipment levels are high and include ABS, four air bags and a four star rating in the NCAP awards, comfort with power steering, electric windows, electric mirrors, climate control AirCon or convenience with trip computer, height and reach adjustable steering, automatic rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights and integrated digital audio system.

Performance comes from a 1.6-litre, 80 kW engine, providing a top speed in excess of 190 kmh and the ability to dash from 0 - 100 kmh in 10.9 seconds.

This combines with light, quick steering, ultra sticky tyres and sports suspension developed by the same team that won the 2003 World Rally Championship and the result is a car that can truly be called a sports car.

Completing the drivetrain is SensoDrive, Citroen's sequential manual gearbox that blends the convenience of a gearbox that changes its own gears with the ease of use of clutch-pedal free operation or complete self-shifting mode with the performance, economy and low emissions of a manual.