The hatchback market in Europe has seen a flurry of activity with the introduction of new models of cars from major manufacturers like Ford, Renault, Hyundai, Citroen, Volkswagen and the like. However, Citroen emerges the clear winner in the 'supermini car' market with efficient Citroen C2. Motor critics have written extremely positive reviews about this car, which won the "European Hatchback of the Year" Award in 2003.
Citroen has made this car using inputs from its parent company, PSA Peugeot. The Citroen C2 effectively replaced the Citroen Saxo, which was quite similar to the Peugeot 106 model. Assembly line production of the C2 began in 2003.
The C2 is a two door mini car with state of the art electronic control systems. Citroen and Peugeot, in collaboration with each other, have devised a couple of new techniques that make the C2 stand a class above the other cars in this market. The C2 remains one of the most fuel-efficient cars in Europe, thanks to its 'Stop and Start' technology. This system stops taking power from the engine once the driver applies the brake pedal to almost bring the vehicle to a stop. Therefore, at traffic signals and outside coffee shops, the driver does not need to worry about fuel consumption.
This car can seat up to four people, and also has a bit of space for some luggage. The C2 is powered by PSA TU petrol and diesel engines. Citroen offers its customers a wide range of engine options for this car. The engines are either of 1.4 or 1.6 litre capacity. The SensoDrive gearbox is also offered with the 1.4 litre ET3 engine, and the 1.6 litre TU5 engine. This technology, along with the Stop and Start technology, defines the 'modern-ness' quotient of the Citroen C2. This is essentially a semi automatic five speed gearbox that is suitable for inexperienced drivers and driving enthusiasts alike.
The driver has to indicate the change of gear through the gear lever, but the gear is changed through electronic controls. Also, the clutch functions are also taken care of through electronic control systems. The clutch plate material is so designed to reduce the wear on the clutch.
The C2 has all the standard features that a hatchback should have. The most recent model has other accessories like fog lamps, music players with USB ports, and plastic bumpers. The C2 is popular on the racing circuit also. The 1.4 litre TU3 model can accelerate from rest to hundred miles per hour in about six seconds. Owing to the all-terrain functionality of the C2, it is quite popular in rally championships.
A version of the C2 with a manual gearbox is also available. Many car dealers offer exclusive pictures of the Citroen C2 on their websites. One can also take a virtual tour of the engine, design and interiors of the C2 online. Although Citroen brought in the C2 to replace the Saxo, the C2 has proved to be a greater success than its predecessors.
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