Citroen C2 VTS HDI driven
Introduction
Diesel hot hatches aren't really a new thing. However, with the environment being such an important issue today diesel hot hatches represent a solution for those wanting driving fun in a more planet friendly package than petrol alternatives.
What is it?
A pocket-rocket that's greener than most. Citroen has long offered warmed over versions of its hatchbacks powered by turbodiesel engines, and they're more relevant today than ever. The C2 1.6 HDI VTS looks exactly the same as its VTS petrol relative, but it delivers far more environmentally friendly performance with a combined consumption figure of 64.2mpg and CO2 emissions of just 119g/km. That's low by any standards, but brilliantly so for a car that's still such an enjoyable drive. A green car without compromises? The C2 1.6 HDI VTS is not far from it.
How does it drive?
Hilariously. The C2 VTS in petrol guise is a hugely enjoyable steer, and the fitment of the 1.6-litre HDI turbodiesel has done nothing to change that. Indeed, it's perhaps even more fun. That's primarily down to the thumping additional torque the diesel engine offers over the petrol unit; meaning in-gear it feels significantly more muscular. All that torque makes the C2 VTS a real giggle, it not needing thrashing like the petrol version to make real progress. The benchmark 62mph arrives in 9.4 seconds, which is just over a second slower than its petrol sibling. That doesn't mean it's not a keen, lively car, the rev-counter spinning round with most un-diesely vigour, which results in the long-throw and rather vague five-speed gearshift needing to be hurried sometimes.
The steering is accurate, but lacking in real information, the brakes strong and the grip good. The handling is pretty neutral, pushing into understeer when really pressed, and the ride is remarkable. It flows down challenging roads better than the petrol car, the linear nature of its power delivery suiting its nicely compliant suspension set up. The diesel engine also transforms the C2's long-legged ability, it far more at home at motorway speeds with the diesel engine up front. Being the range-topping VTS specification it comes with a comprehensive standard specification including air conditioning.
Planet hugger or planet mugger?
It's just a diesel hatchback, so really there's a lot more that could be done to reduce its emissions. There are no regenerative brakes or clever alternator/starters here, though don't rule out such technology on future C2 models. Even so it's difficult to ignore that 60+mpg figure and the low CO2 emissions. A lot of that is down to the C2's light weight, which helps the HDI VTS fall into the government's band B for Vehicle Excise Duty. For those wanting something they can get decent mpg and CO2 emissions around town, but enjoyable driving characteristics on country roads then the C2 HDI VTS is a desirable choice.
Verdict
With its VTS badges and sporty looks this C2 isn't an obvious green model, but its numbers are more planet friendly than most. It almost represents an anti-green style statement for those still wanting the sporting looks and not needing the comfort blanket of green badging to tell the world how environmentally responsible they are. That's a good thing in our opinion, especially as not only does the C2 HDI VTS help reduce emissions and use a trifling amount of fuel, but it's also a hoot to drive once freed from the shackles of urban traffic. At under £11k - with Citroen's price offers - it's also good value.
Tuesday November 6
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