The SAXO From CITROEN




Although it may lack the traditional Citroen quirkiness of past models, the Saxo does have a lot going for it. Citroen's AX replacement is a smart and entertaining urban runabout.

Compared with its predecessor, the Saxo has a solid feel to it, with good interior ergonomics and clear instruments. All that is missing from this car is class. Ventillation and sterio controlls are easy to use, but do seem a little cheap. While the overall impression of the car, is that it is not as good as the best here.

This model comes without a sunroof, so there is plenty of headroom for the taller of us, and with ample legroom to match. Unfortunately neither the drivers seat nor the steering wheel can be adjusted, so if you are tall be prepared to have your knees come into contact with the wheel. However the seats are supportive and comfortable. Overall, the Saxo feels far smaller than either the Polo or the Corsa for example, especially in the back. Headroom is acceptable, but legroom is very crampt, and as in the front the cabin feels rather narrow and crampt. However none of the other cars can boast opening rear windows like the Saxo.

But on the road the Saxo is every inch the funster its looks suggest. Drive the Saxo after the Corsa for example, and it immediately feels more alive, more agile. The steering is light which makes the car easy to control, and much easier to move around in town.

The car is enhanced by an engine that seems very powerfull, and also a slick gearchange which enables you to get every last drop of power out of the engine. The engine loves to be driven hard and thrives on high revs, and you are never short of power as you plant your foot down.

Whats also impressive is the Saxos performance through the twisty dtuff. It feels very light and agile through corners, proving second best only to the Fiesta. And as with the Ford, the exiting handling is not at the expense of a smooth ride-the Citroen can iron out the worst british roads can throw at it.

The Saxo really is a great little car. It provides good looks with a rewarding driving experience that belies its budget price tag. Ride and handling are excellent, all that is missing is a little more room inside and some of the class that makes its rivals stand out.


On the road price:
�8,195
Engine:
4 cyl in-line
Capacity:
1,124cc
Transmission:
5-spd manual fwd
Dimensions (L:H:W):
3,737:1,390:1,620mm
Fuel tank capacity:
45 litres
Insurance group:
4
Basic Warranty:
1 year unlimited mileage
Service intervals:
9,000 miles
Recovery:
1 year Citroen Assist
Test Results:
0-60 (secs):
13.6
30-70 thru gears:
14.7
30-50 in third:
6.7
30-50 in fourth:
10.8
50-70 in fifth:
19.7
Top speed:
102mph
Braking 30-0mph:
11.5
What You Get For Your Money:
  1. Sunroof: �225 option
  2. Driver's airbag
  3. Passenger airbag: �195 option
  4. ABS: �595 option
  5. Immobiliser
  6. RDS Radio Cassette
  7. Rear wash/wipe
  8. Seatbelt pre-tensioners

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