Used Citroën C1 2005 - 2014 review
Category: Small car
It's a very capable city car which has the talent to back up its cute looks
What's the used Citroën C1 hatchback like?
Cars that are this cheap aren't always very talented, but the Citroen C1 manages to combine rock-bottom prices with a broad spread of abilities.
The C1 certainly has the looks to attract young drivers at whom it is aimed. The styling is fresh and contemporary, inside and out, which means that, unlike many city cars, young drivers will be proud to be seen in this Citroen.
They will also enjoy driving it. The handling is fine, as long as corners are taken with the respect that they are due, and although the ride is firm, it is unlikely to bother people.
The C1 is definitely best in the urban jungle, because its keen powerplants and compact proportions are ideal for city life. The engines struggle more with motorway driving, and refinement isn't terrific.
It's not such good news on practicality. Rear-seat passengers will struggle for room and the boot is tiny.
Ownership cost
What used Citroën C1 hatchback will I get for my budget?
How much does it cost to run a Citroën C1 hatchback?
There is very little chance that a used C1 will bankrupt you. Even when compared with the Toyota Aygo, with which is shares many of its parts, it loses its value quicker, so it should be cheaper to buy second-hand.
It will cost you peanuts to run, too. Fuel economy is among the best that you will get from any car: the petrol returns an average of 61.4mpg, and although this is a very strong performance, the diesel has it beaten. With an average of 68.9mpg, you will be able to travel more than 530 miles between fills.
Insurance costs, another big consideration for young drivers, are also good as it's possible to get. Both engines carry a group 1 classification, so premiums will be minimal. Routine servicing is also cheap.
Our recommendations
Which used Citroën C1 hatchback should I buy?
Of the two engines on offer, the three-cylinder 1.0-litre petrol is the best. It sounds great and its 67bhp is more than enough in the featherweight C1. It feels eagre in town, and can just about cope at the national limit.
The 1.4 diesel is just as good. With 54bhp, it has less power than the petrol, but it has more pulling power, so its overall performance doesn't suffer much. You will pay more for it, however.
Two trim levels are available with the petrol. Vibe is the basic package, providing a limited amount of standard kit. You get a CD stereo with MP3 compatability, and that's about it. Air-con wasn't even offered as an option.
Chilled air wasn't standard on the Rhythm but you could pick up a model that had it specified as an option. You also get remote central locking, curtain airbags and electric front windows. The diesel is only available in Rhythm trim.
