Segment:
Supermini / City Car
Target Audience:
Young drivers, urban commuters, budget-conscious buyers seeking compact and fuel-efficient transport.
Key Competitors:
Peugeot 206, Renault Clio, Ford Fiesta, Opel/Vauxhall Corsa, Fiat Punto.
Design Philosophy:
Compact dimensions, distinctive 'one-box' styling with a tall cabin, often featuring the 'C-Airmash' interior trim.
Unique Selling Points:
Compact size for city maneuverability, surprisingly spacious interior for its footprint, optional SensoDrive automated manual transmission, often available in vibrant colors.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Clutch, manual transmission, automated manual transmission (SensoDrive), differentials, driveshafts
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (hydraulic, ABS, ESP)
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, body electricals, comfort systems (HVAC, power windows, central locking), infotainment systems, ECU diagnostics
Bodywork:
Body shell repair, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, bumpers, safety structures
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-II)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Repair:
Component removal and installation, sub-assembly repair, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, tolerances, wiring diagrams, component locations
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, component-level repair, and major overhauls. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Codes:
Examples: TU3JP (1.4i 8V), KFU (1.4i 16V HDi), KFV (1.4i 16V VTi), 8FP (1.1i)
Engine Displacement Petrol:
1.1 L (1124 cc), 1.4 L (1360 cc)
Engine Displacement Diesel:
1.4 L (1398 cc) HDi
Horsepower Petrol 1.1:
Approx. 60 PS (59 hp; 44 kW)
Horsepower Petrol 1.4:
Approx. 75 PS (74 hp; 55 kW) or 90 PS (89 hp; 66 kW) for 16V variants
Horsepower Diesel 1.4 Hdi:
Approx. 68 PS (67 hp; 50 kW)
Torque Petrol 1.4:
Approx. 118 Nm (87 lb-ft) @ 3200 rpm (for 16V)
Torque Diesel 1.4 Hdi:
Approx. 150 Nm (111 lb-ft) @ 1750 rpm
Fuel Delivery Petrol:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel System Diesel:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (Octane rating dependent on market, typically 95 RON), Diesel Fuel
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Automated Manual Transmission (SensoDrive)
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios available in manual, e.g., 1st: 3.46, 2nd: 1.87, 3rd: 1.24, 4th: 0.95, 5th: 0.76 (subject to engine variant)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to manual for specific SAE viscosity and specification (e.g., for manual gearbox, typically SAE 75W-80 GL-4)
Length:
Approx. 3620 mm (142.5 in)
Width:
Approx. 1650 mm (65.0 in)
Height:
Approx. 1470 mm (57.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2315 mm (91.1 in)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x108
Seating Capacity:
4 Passengers
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 166 litres (5.86 cu ft) with rear seats up, expandable to approx. 1060 litres (37.4 cu ft) with rear seats folded
Curb Weight:
Approx. 970-1070 kg (2138-2359 lbs) depending on engine and specification
Euro Ncap Rating:
4 Stars (achieved in its initial testing)
ABS:
Standard on most variants, often with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Esp:
Optional on certain models and trim levels
Airbags:
Driver, passenger, side airbags as standard or optional depending on trim and market.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning seatbelts with force limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX mounting points
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio CD player with steering wheel controls on higher trims. Aux-in connectivity may be present on later models.
Display:
Digital or analogue instrument cluster, small central display for trip computer and audio information.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on higher trim levels.
Parking Sensors:
Available as an option on some models.
Bluetooth:
Optional on later models, often integrated with the audio system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 20,000 km (12,500 miles) or 2 years, whichever comes first (check manual for specific engine/oil type).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 40,000 km (25,000 miles) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Petrol:
Every 60,000 km (37,500 miles) for standard plugs, or 80,000-100,000 km for long-life iridium plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical for TU series engines. Typically 120,000 km (75,000 miles) or 5 years. Critical to verify based on engine code.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific grade, e.g., Total Quartz 9000 5W-40 or 5W-30 meeting PSA B71 2290 (diesel) or PSA B71 2310 (petrol).
Coolant:
Antifreeze/coolant concentrate (e.g., PSA B71 5100 or similar) mixed with distilled water, typically 50/50 ratio.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
If applicable (some models may have electric power steering), refer to manual for specification (often a specific hydraulic fluid).
Electrical Gremlins:
Occasional issues with window regulators, central locking, and dashboard warning lights have been reported. Poor grounding can be a cause.
Suspension Wear:
Front suspension bushings and ball joints can wear prematurely, leading to knocking noises.
Hdi Diesel Issues:
Early HDi models may experience issues with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve and particulate filter (DPF) clogging if not maintained or driven appropriately for diesel operation.
Sensodrive Transmission:
The automated manual gearbox can be jerky and may develop issues with the clutch actuator or hydraulic pump if not serviced or if subjected to aggressive use.
Exhaust Manifold:
Cracking of the exhaust manifold on certain petrol engines is a known issue.
Citroen Philosophy:
Known for innovation, comfort ('Citroën Advanced Comfort'), and distinctive design.
Development:
Developed as a successor to the Citroën Saxo, focusing on a more modern and distinctive approach to the city car segment. Utilized PSA Peugeot Citroën's PF1 platform.
Production Years:
2002-2010
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Aulnay-sous-Bois, France.
Previous Awards:
While the C2 did not win major 'Car of the Year' awards, it was generally well-received for its practicality and affordability within its segment.
Fuel Economy:
Generally good, with the 1.4 HDi diesel engine offering particularly strong fuel efficiency (e.g., combined cycle around 4.5 L/100km).
Emissions Standards:
Compliant with European emissions standards applicable during its production run (e.g., Euro 4).