Citroen C4 2005 review

Naturally, since this is a French-made car it is slightly quirky, sophisticated and packed with technology. The sharp-looking car I'm referring to is the Citroen C4 VTS hatch. Nice, isn't it? Classy but not too sassy, and just that wincy bit different that makes it stand out. We girls like to be noticed.

Those cat's eyes headlights might look sexy from this angle, but they look even better from behind the wheel – they are directional and move as you turn the steering wheel. Brilliant. Other motorists noticed, too – it's such an attention seeker.

And how cute are the C4's heated, folding side mirrors? They fold, like closed ears (as I like to call them), when the car is locked.

Inside, its chic and indulgent, and much like a French house of couture, ultra stylish in black. It's a bit spyish, too. Black leather, suede-like alcantata on the cushioned seats and polished aluminium. There's a sexy audio system with surround sound and a double CD stacker, dual climate zones, a pollen filter, tinted windows and cruise control.

Even the steering wheel is slick. Volume and radio controls sit on a fixed centre, as does a rev counter which looks like something out of Battlestar Galactica. The fixed wheel ensures the driver's airbag always deploys at the right angle.

The dash has an ingenious translucent instrument display, which uses natural light to show your speed. If those big, bold numbers don't slow you down, then perhaps the speed limiter might. Having seen the way they drive in France, I expect a speed limiter is a must there. It should be here, too, especially since this car has been designed to glide.

The sports suspension is faultless, and the two-litre engine and five-speed manual transmission whip it up steep climbs.

Even the bells and whistles are fun – cute popping sounds for the parking/reversing sensors, a kettle-like whistle when headlights are left on and a jingle when seat belts are yet to be fastened.

But, alas, the cup holder was a disappointment – it wouldn't fit a 350ml bottle of water.

Perhaps I should have bought a Perrier instead ...

Love it

The directional lights are very cool as are the rain-sensitive windscreen wipers. Love the French twists.

Leave it

The seats are a little uncomfortable. I felt like I was being pushed to the right and wasn't sitting centred. It was offputting.