Citroën C2 VTS (04-09) - Review

Review by David Ross on
The VTS is the hot hatch version in the C2 range and, unlike the limited edition GT model, has genuine performance from its 125bhp petrol engine with a 0-62mph time of 8.3 seconds. It's also available with a punchy diesel that's cheap to tax and will return 64mpg. The VTS handles well thanks to the C2's lightweight body plus there's minimal body roll in corners. Unfortunately the light steering lacks feel and detracts somewhat from the driving enjoyment while the vague gearbox is another disappointment. But affordable prices and low running costs make the VTS a good value junior hot hatch.
3 out of 5

Other Citroën reviews

3.5 out of 5

Performance

The VTS was launched with just one engine - a spirited 1.6-litre petrol with 125bhp that sprints from 0-62mph in a nippy 8.3 seconds. It revs happily and doesn't sound unduly coarse when worked hard, but although the close ratio gearbox is an improvement on the standard five-speed transmission, it's still too vague and not slick enough for a hot hatch. A 1.6-litre diesel engine was added to the range in 2007 and the 110bhp has plenty of in-gear grunt to make overtaking easy, so although it's 0-62mph time of 9.4 seconds is a second slower than the petrol model, it's less tiring to drive in everyday conditions.

3.5 out of 5

Handling

The VTS has uprated suspension and a lower ride height than the standard C2 plus the steering has been made more responsive too. It's not quite an overall success - the steering is more responsive, but still lacks feel and feels artificial. But body roll is kept to a minimum and the VTS corners confidently with plenty of grip. The ride quality isn't especially harsh either so it will cope easily with rough roads and speed bumps.

  • Moving Exterior Citroën C2 VTS (04-09)
  • Moving Exterior Citroën C2 VTS (04-09)
  • Moving Exterior Citroën C2 VTS (04-09)
  • Moving Exterior Citroën C2 VTS (04-09)

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