Citroën C1 (2005 - 2014) 1.0i Cool 5d (2007/57) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Sensible, practical approach to 21st century motoring, without recourse to complex and expensive hybrids.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

My non-driving wife loves the looks, but refuses to go on long journeys in it, insisting we take the big one. I have noticed that for a cheap car it turns a few heads, probably because it's pretty cute.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, I'm getting 50mpg round town, much more on a run, and a year's fully comp insurance and road tax works out at £3.75 a week.

What are you likely to buy next?

Another C1, or Aygo/107. Depends on what deals are available in 3 years.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£6,950

When did you buy the car?

December 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes, Citroen had a good offer on, and the dealer threw in some kit too.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Wanted a cheap runaround to supplement the big car.

What was the dealer like?

Basic, old-school but OK. Did what they promised.

What's it like to drive?

I feel that visibility is poor for such a tiny car, with thick pillars and big blindspots. You need to be careful with cyclists about. It's not fast, but it's a charming little car,and I often pick up its keys in preference to my 17mpg gas guzzler, not just because it's cheaper either.

What's it like to park?

You tend to underestimate how much room you have in front - no bad thing really, but you can park in gaps you wouldn't stand a chance of bagging with a normal car.

Have you had any problems with the car?

The brakes are a little sensitive, and occasionally snatch, but pull the car up well enough. Otherwise fit and finish are pretty good. The underside of the bonnet is not properly painted though.

What's most practical about your car?

Don't worry about the tiny boot, just push the rear seats forward and there's plenty of room for the weekly shop and trips to the dump.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

CD player