Buying Guides

Citroen C2 (2003-2010) Buying Guide

Pictures shown may not represent exact model specified

by Richard Dredge

Citroen's strength has long been its small cars, and if you're looking for convincing evidence, the C2 provides it in spades. Great aesthetically and dynamically, the C2 took over where the Saxo left off, designed for youth appeal but actually finding a much wider audience. It's not hard to see why; eminently affordable to buy and run, the C2 makes perfect urban transport, but can cope with so much more.

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We Like	We Don't Like
Agility Low prices Looks Good engines	Cramped interior Inert steering

Key Dates
9/03	The C2 arrives with 1.1, 1.4 or 1.6-litre petrol, or 1.4-litre turbodiesel engines.
12/03	The 1.6 GT appears.
5/04	ABS is now standard, and the Ministry of Sound special debuts, with an upgraded stereo.
8/04	The 1.6 VTS reaches showrooms.
12/05	The C2 Stop & Start arrives.
1/07	The Airplay, Code and by Loeb special editions are released.
7/07	A C2 1.6HDi VTS joins the range.
6/08	A facelift brings a new bonnet, bumpers and grille.

Checklist
On 1.4HDi engines, the cam belt tensioner can fail, so listen for a whirring/whining sound. On the 1.6 VTS, the inlet manifold bolts can fall off. Some of the interior plastics are flimsy and the fit and finish is inconsistent, so expect squeaks and rattles. Catalytic converters can prove fragile, so put the car through an emissions test to make sure it's working. The engine can run erratically, and either rev or cut out when left to idle; it's usually an ECU software update that's needed. The C2's electrics can be temperamental, so make sure everything works, including the radio, windows, wipers and lights.

Checklist

On 1.4HDi engines, the cam belt tensioner can fail, so listen for a whirring/whining sound.
On the 1.6 VTS, the inlet manifold bolts can fall off.
Some of the interior plastics are flimsy and the fit and finish is inconsistent, so expect squeaks and rattles.
Catalytic converters can prove fragile, so put the car through an emissions test to make sure it's working.
The engine can run erratically, and either rev or cut out when left to idle; it's usually an ECU software update that's needed.
The C2's electrics can be temperamental, so make sure everything works, including the radio, windows, wipers and lights.