El Citroën C1 is an urban model belonging to segment A and is the smallest vehicle that Citroën sold in its dealerships, just above other successful models such as the Citroën C3 or Citroën C4. Although in the past it was marketed with several possible bodies, it is currently offered exclusively as a five-door urban.
We have tested this car:
Test Citroën C1 1.2 PureTech 82 CV, urbanite with muscle (video)The first generation of the C1 was officially presented in 2005. A time of splendor for models in this category. That first generation was on the markets until 2014, having undergone two particularly relevant updates along the way, one in 2009 and the other in 2012.
The second, and current generation was presented at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. Since then the small French model has not undergone any considerable renovation. Yes, it has been updated in terms of equipment and engines, but on an aesthetic level the image is the same. Its production takes place at the plant in Kolín, Czech Republic.
Technical characteristics of the Citroën C1
The C1 is a joint-venture of several models. Citroën is part of the PSA alliance together with Peugeot . The two manufacturers, together with the Japanese, Toyota, they have responsible for carrying out the development of their corresponding utility models. C1 is first cousin of Peugeot 108 and the Toyota Aygo. The three share many components, although their images are very different.
As we have already said, the second generation of the Citroën C1 is marketed exclusively as a five-door model. His measurements continue to position him perfectly within segment A. 3,47 meters long, 1,61 meters wide and 1,46 meters high. To these external dimensions must be added a wheelbase of just 2,3 meters. That battle allows you to offer a very fair interior space, with capacity for a maximum of four passengers.
The trunk volume of the Citroën C1 announces 196 liters of minimum capacity. This volume can grow to a maximum of 780 liters if the second row of seats is completely folded down. In addition to the five-door version, the C1 is also marketed in a convertible format, called Airscape. A retractable canvas roof allows you to circulate with the sensation of going open-top, although the structure is not as such.
Mechanical range and gearboxes of the Citroën C1
The urban performance that is presupposed to the Citroën C1 allows it to offer a very short mechanical range, limited exclusively to a single petrol version. Said limited power unit is always managed by a five-speed manual gearbox that sends power to the front axle at all times.
The engine in question is a three-cylinder block with a transverse front layout, naturally aspirated and with a displacement of 998 cubic centimeters. develops 72 horsepower at 6.000 revolutions and 93 Nm of torque at 4.400 engine revolutions. Officially announces a combined consumption in the WLTP cycle of 4,9 liters per 100 kilometers traveled.
At the moment the future of the smallest of the house is unknown. By buying trend, the utility segment is turning towards 100% electric mobility. Many rivals of the French have already taken the step. Citroën has wanted to enter this segment with the small Citroën AMI, although it is listed as a quad and not as a car.
Equipment of the Citroen C1
The range of equipment for the Citroën C1 for the Spanish market is structured around three versions. From smallest to largest endowment are the versions: City Edition, Urban Ride, Feel and Origins, in addition to the Airscape body that has its own level of equipment, called Shine. In terms of materials, it uses plastics on all surfaces, generating a feeling of low perceived quality.
Among the most notable equipment elements in the C1 we find the ABS brakes with EBD, traction and stability controls (TCS and ESP), LED daytime running lights, MP3 radio with USB sockets, six airbags, low tire detector or infotainment system with 7-inch touch screen and Mirror Screen.
With the arrival on the market of the second generation, the C1 reorients its commercial positioning towards an audience that seeks personalization, which is why there are different accessories and elements in the range, such as the possibility of choosing your bodywork and interior fittings in different bi-color tones.
Citroën C1 video test
The Citroën C1 according to Euro NCAP
Euro NCAP subjected the Citroën C1 to impact tests in 2014, awarding it 4 stars. In any case, the score of the small French urban micro is distributed as follows. Protection for adult and child occupants in the event of an impact is 80 percent, respectively. As for pedestrians, the protection achieved was 62 percent. Finally, in terms of active driving aids, it reached a creditable 56 percent.
The Citroën C1 of Km 0 and second hand
The Citroën C1 came to the market as a substitute for the veteran C2 showing itself throughout its two generations as a reliable and robust model. During its first years of sale it was well positioned, accumulating many units sold. However, with the passage of time, the market trend reduced the commercial success. Its depreciation percentage is in tune with segment standards.
Secondary channels have interesting options for sale. The cheapest are found on the second-hand market with starting prices close to 1.500 euros. for first generation models (2005) with more than 200 thousand accumulated kilometers. On the other hand, the Km 0 market is more deficient in units. We can find brand new units with a Feel finish for about 10.500 euros.
Citroën C1 rivals
The electric ones are postulated as the ideal mobility solution for short or medium distance routes. The urban ones are the most reasonable of all due to the contained price and the many advantages they present. Almost the entire segment A is switching to electric mobility. Nonetheless, the Citroën C1 is still betting on thermal engines, but its rivals are still the same as we already knew. In addition to his brothers 108 and Aygo, units such as: Renault Twingo, smart forfour, SEAT Mii Electric, Skoda Citigoe IV, Mitsubishi Space Star, Suzuki Ignis, Volkswagen e-up! y FIAT 500. The advantage of betting on non-electric technologies is that the C1 can offer a lower selling price.
Highlight
- urban use
- Ease of use
- frugal mechanics
To improve
- road behavior
- High price
- Model Longevity
Citroen C1 prices
Despite its longevity, the little equipment, or the short and inefficient mechanical range, the C1 is an expensive car. The starting price of the Citroën C1 is 12.050 euros, without offers or promotions. That value corresponds to a five-door model with a hardtop and City Edition finish. The most expensive of the family is the Citroën C1 Airscape with Shine finish. The starting price of that unit is 12.665 euros, without offers or promotions.
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