Citroën is unleashing its new sporty supermini, the C2 VTS, on the UK public this August. This exciting new arrival heads up the C2 range, offering real hot hatch handling and performance thanks to a tuned chassis and new, uprated engine. Packed with equipment, it's also reassuringly high on safety and, above all, great value for money.

The performance supermini market is one that Citroën knows well, with a pedigree for producing lively hot hatches, most notably the Saxo VTR/VTS combination that topped the hot hatch tables for five consecutive years. This year, sporty models have already accounted for 40% of total C2 sales.

Now, the new C2 VTS is set to become the next affordable thrill-maker for a new generation of younger buyers, costing some £1,000 less than the Saxo VTS did at launch, yet featuring even more kit. Most likely stepping into a performance hatch for the first time, these buyers are looking for all the thrills offered by a sporty supermini, but without the associated bills, ruling out the premium priced and over-powered rivals.

The C2 VTS makes a very clear case for high value, performance motoring, with a group 8 insurance rating - an impressive 6 groups less than Saxo VTS - that promises to keep insurance costs right down, a recommended retail price of just £11,995, as well as a comprehensive standard equipment list. And at launch Citroen's latest hot hatch includes the valuable benefit of one year's free insurance (not available in Northern Ireland) for buyers aged 21 to 80.

Significant work on the 125bhp 1.6i 16V petrol engine ensures that it is able to rev freely to its maximum 7,200 revs, whilst also providing a good spread of torque lower down the rev range - unusual in this type of car. The 5-speed gearbox features specially developed close ratio gears that, together with the engine upgrades, give the C2 VTS a 0-62mph time of just 8.3 seconds, together with a maximum speed of 126mph.

The fun-to-drive nature of the C2 VTS is further enhanced by changes to the overall chassis design, which incorporates bigger anti-roll bars and stiffer springs and dampers, together with more direct steering and wider wheels fitted with special sports tyres.

With its sharp, angular lines and purposeful stance, the C2 VTS wears the same stylish clothing as its stable mate the C2 VTR, in the same manner that proved so successful for the Saxo VTR/VTS combination. The pumped up 16" alloy wheels, front fog lights, chrome tailpipe and subtle rear spoiler contribute to the distinctive, modern look.

The sporty theme continues on the inside - the two-tone black bolstered seats, aluminium gear knob and aluminium drilled pedals are all specific to the new model. Further touches designed to create a youthful, stylish ambience include translucent door grab handles, chunky chrome door handles and a black leather steering wheel.

Yet while the C2 VTS openly flaunts its sporty credentials, it comes with a specification list that takes everyday life firmly into account. Air conditioning, power assisted steering, electric windows, an alarm and a CD player are among the list of standard equipment, while sliding/folding rear seats, side window airbags and rear parking sensor are all options. Owners also obtain the benefits offered by a genuinely spacious supermini with room for four and the practicality of a split tailgate.

The C2 VTS incorporates the latest up-to-date safety technology, in keeping with the rest of the range - EuroNCAP has already rated the C2 one of Europe's safest in the supermini sector. As well as four airbags, the C2 VTS also boasts ABS with EBD and EBA as standard. Further enhancing its safety credentials, it is one of very few sporty superminis to offer drivers advanced levels of grip thanks to the standard fitment of ESP.

Alain Favey, managing director of Citroën UK, comments: "Following the success of the Saxo VTR/VTS duo, Citroën has proved that it understands what real buyers want from a hot hatch. The C2 VTS is a fun, practical and highly attractive ownership experience and is sure to continue the company's tradition for producing great value sporty superminis."

Citroen news release - 21 Aug 2004