Citroen’s C2 is an ideal first car

THE alternative looks of the Citroen C2 don’t appeal to everyone but it’s a good choice for a secondhand small car that’s cheap to run and comes with low-cost insurance.

It was the spiritual successor to the Saxo that was so loved by many drivers and came with most of the same engines – albeit with modernising modifications.

It was only available as a three-door – the five-door version becoming the C3, which has the same range of power units.

It seems a little more upright than other small cars, but despite this, the handling and road-holding are excellent.

The ride is also pretty good in all but the top-end sporting versions, which have stiffer suspension to improve still further the already good road-holding.

Engines range up from a 61bhp 1.1-litre, through a 1.4-litre with either 75bhp or 90bhp, to a 1.6-litre with either 110bhp or 125bhp. The 90bhp 1.4-litre comes with Citroen’s Sensodrive automatic gearbox.

There is also a 1.4-litre turbo diesel which has 70bhp but because it is very economical, it is much more sought-after secondhand and therefore will cost more.

The 75bhp 1.4-litre petrol is the best bet, giving 42mpg46mpg and decent performance.

Mechanical reliability is good, but interiors can get rough without care, so check carefully.

The top-of-the-range VTS is very quick, but has stiffened suspension giving a pretty harsh and sometimes uncomfortable ride, and it’s a lot more to insure.

The Sensodrive automatic gearbox is a clutchless manual that can be used as a full automatic – but slow changes mean it is not for those who enjoy their driving.

Aircon only comes with higher trim levels but base models still have remote locking and four airbags.

Most also come with audio remote control, folding back seat, full-size spare wheel and electric windows.

Rear legroom is small and so is the boot but seat adjustment is good for the driver, enabling most to get completely comfortable.

Pay about £1,150 for an 08-reg Design, or £1,750 for an 09-reg VTR.