Citroen C1
Citroen C1 technical data
Select Citroen C1 generation for full details - reviews, specifications, fuel consumption, pricing, quality and safety features, options, photos and more
Citroen C1 is a city car introduced in 2005 as part of a joint project between PSA Peugeot Citroen and Toyota. It shares its technical foundation with the Peugeot 107/108 and Toyota Aygo and was produced in the Czech Republic. Designed primarily for urban mobility, the C1 focuses on compact dimensions, low fuel consumption, and affordable ownership.
The first generation (2005–2014) was available as a three- or five-door hatchback. It was powered mainly by a 1.0-liter three-cylinder petrol engine producing around 68 horsepower, paired with a 5-speed manual or an automated manual transmission. A 1.4-liter HDi diesel engine was also offered in some markets, emphasizing fuel efficiency. The lightweight construction contributed to low running costs and agile city handling.
The second generation, launched in 2014, adopted a more expressive design and improved interior technology. Engine options continued with updated 1.0-liter three-cylinder petrol units and later a 1.2-liter PureTech engine producing up to 82 horsepower, offering better performance while maintaining efficiency. Safety and comfort features were upgraded, including a touchscreen infotainment system, rearview camera, and additional customization options. Production ended in 2022.
In user reviews, the Citroen C1 is frequently described as a cheerful and uncomplicated urban companion. Drivers enjoy its tiny footprint, which makes parking effortless, and its frugal fuel consumption that keeps daily costs low. The simple mechanical layout is often seen as a benefit for reliability. On the other hand, owners acknowledge limited cabin space, minimal sound insulation at motorway speeds, and modest performance on highways. For city dwellers, however, its practicality and low ownership costs tend to outweigh these compromises.
Is Citroen C1 a reliable car?
The Citroen C1 is not a very reliable car. 70% of other cars of the same age are found to have fewer defects than the Citroen C1 in annual roadworthiness tests.
Based on annual roadworthiness tests results, the Citroen C1 generation produced from 2005 to 2008 received the highest reliability ratings, but the lowest reliability had models from model year 2014 to 2022, reliability scores vary quite significantly between generations of Citroen C1. For more information, check the respective generation information.
Most Citroen C1 engines utilize a timing chain drive, which is widely regarded as more dependable compared to engines with a timing belt drive.
Citroen C1 reviews
Total 6 Citroen C1 owner reviews
Pros: A small car fit for the city, where it´s a good vehicle that can be parked into tight spots compared to sedans and wagons. It´s cheap in maintenance in terms of parts, and fuel consumption. Good for shorter drives, so if you don´t have a long way to work or family/friends this is a pretty good option.
Cons: Is uncomfortable on long drives (I drive 80km+ to work). Gets loud in the cabin during trips on the highway. Feels light in windy weather. Not very ergonomic standard seats. If your country salt roads, look out for rust if buying one. Can feel small if your tall and/or have long legs.
| Purchase year: | 2021 age of car 13 years) | Owned for | 36`000 kilometers (2 years) |
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Would recomend this car to the friend
Pros: Very reliable engine (1st generation), low consumption, driving pleasure, low cost.
Cons: Not suitable for the driving Fangio, but allows very good performance for normal use, both in the city and on the highway
| Purchase year: | 2014 new car) | Owned for | 130`000 kilometers (9 years) |
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| Average fuel consumption: | 5.8 litres per 100km (60% urban driving) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
Pros: Small and at the same time roomy for the small class. Convenient parking in the city. Pretty brisk. Taxes are low.
Cons: No sound insulation ... If you come to ride in the mountains, there is a lack of power.
| Average fuel consumption: | 6.0 litres per 100km (70% urban driving) | ||
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Would recomend this car to the friend
Pros: Economical, fits in the city, cheaper than a tram or trolley, repair parts cheap
Cons: Scooter with roof, strong winds blowing off the road, lightweight, fits only in the city.
| Purchase year: | 2020 age of car 9 years) | Owned for | 1`000 kilometers (0 years) |
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| Average fuel consumption: | 4.5 litres per 100km (60% urban driving) | ||
Would NOT recomend this car to the friend
Pros: Small, neat and easy to park.
Cons: It's noisy in the cabin, but turning the radio up works fine. For now, a good car for everyday use
| Purchase year: | 2023 age of car 14 years) | Owned for | 3`000 kilometers (0 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 5.5 litres per 100km (90% urban driving) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
| Purchase year: | 2023 age of car 14 years) | Owned for | 16`000 kilometers (1 year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 6.0 litres per 100km (90% urban driving) | ||
| Total cost of repairs: | 180 € (~ 180 € per year) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
Pros: Super for the city!