Overall Rating |  |
Saxo is a Peugeot 106 in rather unconvincing disguise. Practical, economical and nice to drive with proven technology? Certainly. A character choice with clever Citroen touches? Most definitely not.
For
- Cheap to buy, insure and run
- Superior handling and ride
- Younger drivers rate the sporty 1.6i versions
Against
- Well, it?s not a real Citroen
- Dreadful driving position
- There are safer choices
Road Test
Unless you're a Citroen enthusiast, don't be put off by the fact that Saxo is just a Peugeot 106 in drag. The 106 was an excellent supermini for its time; and its grippy handling, precise steering and surprisingly supple ride were all inherited by Saxo.
Driving Saxo brings a smile to drivers' lips, especially if you choose the sporty 1.6 VTR or VTS. But you also have to endure poorly positioned offset pedals - a real problem if you have long legs and big feet.
Engines are willing (except the breathless, harsh 1.0i) and economical. Best all-rounder is the 1.4i - it's responsive around town, long-legged when cruising, and can give over 45 mpg if driven sensibly.
Apart from its derivative design and those dreadful pedals, Saxo can suffer from so-so reliability and scruffy interiors on older cars. And occupant safety is sub-standard measured against today's benchmarks.
Need To Know
NCAP: 2
Best Models: 1.4i SX; 1.6i VTR; 1.6i 16v VTS
Worst Models: 1.0i; 1.4i Auto
Replacement: by Citroen C3 in Spring 2002
Alternatives
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Star Ratings
Handling  Comfort Quality & Reliability Performance Roominess Running Costs Value for Money Stereo/Sat Nav  |
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