Citroën C2 VTS test

Intro: WORTHY OF THE VTS NAME

The Citroen Saxo VTS couldn’t sit still without being improved upon, here, now the C2 VTS. Will it be worthy of its predecessor? That is what we’re about to find out.

Esthetique: IT HIDES WELL ITS INTENTIONS

Aesthetically, the C2 VTS also inherits exterior elements from the VTR : a front chin spoiler painted the same colour as the bottom of the bodywork and rear spoiler. Only the 16-inch wheels, the chrome muffler pipe and the small VTS logo are indications of a difference. The C2 is discreet but certainly doesn’t lack for character. It has an athletic allure, as well as, being quite charming. It will be a hit with both women and men. In the inside, the VTS stands out with a leather steering wheel, an aluminium gear shift handle, and pedal set, those from the Peugeot 206 RC and finally, and a mineral grey gear shift dust boot.

Motorization: THE HEARTOF THE C2 VTS

Citroen took the 110 horsepower engine from the VTR and made a few modifications : It comes with new camshafts and new valve filters and a specific admissions system in addition to a new injection system and a re-worked exhaust pipe line. All of this together results in an increase of 15 horsepower to the tiny 1600cc, which now produces 125bhp. The VTS’s maximum torque output is 143 Newton metres at 3 570 rpms. It is most certainly the heart of the C2 VTS and it comes coupled with a five-speed gearbox, which has been shortened to deliver maximum power from the motor.

On the road: REMARKABLY EFFECIENT

Over a year ago, the VTR already proved a lot of potential on the C2. Citroen decided to go even further and improved the chassis. The ride comfort has been firmed up, thanks to new front and rear springs. The C2 VTS was also given a new stiffer anti-roll bar and much larger wheels. Its front axle is remarkably precise and the rear axle follows in step. It rolls flat and it handles. The ESP is of a truly rare intelligence and never disturbs driving. The suspension reflects perfectly the harmony between the springs and the shock absorbers. The brakes have plenty of grip and are long lasting. With all of these improved qualities, it would be rather nice to have just a few more horsepower. In short, the VTS is what we like, forget the VTR and it is a very worthy heir to the Saxo VTS. The progress helps, and it is even more efficient... There is no loner any reason to hark nostalgic for the Saxo.