| Overall Rating |
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| Description |
| 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. |
| Handling |
 |
| Comfort |
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| Quality & Reliability |
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| Performance |
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| Roominess |
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| Running Costs |
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| Value for Money |
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| Stereo/Sat Nav |
 |
| 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 |
|
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| 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. |
| Positive Points |
- Cheap to buy, insure and run
- Superior handling and ride
- Younger drivers rate the sporty 1.6i versions
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| Negative Points |
- Well, it?s not a real Citroen
- Dreadful driving position
- There are safer choices
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