Citroen C1 safety was originally given a four star rating by Euro NCAP, although this was reassessed to three stars in 2012.

Although the passenger compartment remained stable in frontal impact crash tests, there is some risk of the driver’s chest striking the steering wheel.

The C1 scored 68% for adult occupant protection and a creditable 73% for child occupant protection.

Side impact head and thorax airbags became standard on all variants from July 2013. Previously the basic VT model lacked side airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchor points, rear head rests and remote central locking fitted to the VTR and VTR+ models. Only the VTR+ had side airbags fitted.

ISOFIX anchorages became standard equipment in July 2013, as did electronic stability control and a passenger seatbelt reminder.

The C1 is a very small car, so don’t expect to carry a chest of drawers in it, but the boot is okay for a few shopping bags. If you need to carry bigger items, the 50-50 split and fold rear seat that are standard on VTR and VTR+ models provides additional load space when tipped forward. The five-door is the obvious choice if you regularly use the rear seats or have children – getting in and out of the back of the three-door model is a struggle.