Forza Motorsport 7: The car that forever changed France

If you had your blast with the Citroen 2CV on the recent Top Gear episode, I had a chance to try out the one car that forever changed France at the Top Gear Track on Forza Motorsport 7. This car, of course, is part of the Totino's Car Pack and I had my dibs on it.



Before getting my dibs on the Deux Chevron, just what's it all about the 2CV? Since the end of the Second World War, the only prototype vehicle from Citroen was exposed to the globe and welcomed this prototype as the Citroen 2CV when it debuted at the Paris Salon in 1948, forever revolutionized the French roads with its odd-looking shape, making it one of the most recognizable cars in the world.

Pierre Boulanger, Citroen's president at that time, wanted it to have a simple structure and a ride quality good enough not to break a basket full of eggs while driving on country roads. He also wants this car to be good enough for passengers to sit inside while wearing silk hats and capable of reaching 50kph while carrying four people and 50kg of luggage. When the car was launched, it passes Boulanger's conditions.

Early models are powered by a horizontally-opposed 2-cylinder OHV engine producing 8HP of power but it gained numerous improvements before production was ceased in 1990. From 1948 to 1990, Citroen produced 3,872,583 units not only France but also from Belgium, United Kingdom, Argentina, Uruguay, Portugal, and Chile.

Inside the world of James Bond, the 2CV appeared in For Your Eyes Only where Bond nicked one of these on a getaway car chase scene. In honor of its appearance, Citroen made a special 2CV 007 model as well. Richard Hammond sampled one in the "50 Years of Bond Cars" special of Top Gear.

In a "Car vs. Boeing 747 Engine" episode of Top Gear, the 2CV got destroyed into pieces when it was blown by the power of the Boeing 747 Engine.

In Clarkson: Heaven and Hell, Jeremy Clarkson drives the Citroen 2CV and then later destroyed it.



Hmmm...How ironic. Top Gear is NOT a fan of the 2CV, in fact, they went into considerable lengths to destroy it but how come a change of heart prompted to love about it? Is it because the Harris Monkey has got one of these? No, there's more than that, because the 2CV is the car that changed French history in the same way Ford did theirs with the Model T so there's something special about it. This 2CV I'm driving in the game produces 33HP and 31lb-ft, so it may not be as much by modern standards but in its time, that's an improvement compared to the past 2CV in history, although it's not as much as the one Bond nicked one in For Your Eyes Only.



There's so much to talk about the 2CV apart from its capability to drive on country roads without breaking an egg while wearing silk hats, going to the maximum speed while fully occupied, and despite being front-wheel drive, it can be quite uncanny to plan a one-make race series with this car. I know, such thing exists and because of its lightweight structure despite the small engine, there are endless possibilities to work with the 2CV as long as you are convinced that you got wooed over by the sense and sensibility this Deux Chevron provides and at the end of the day, it can almost win your heart in every tangible way. Anyway, there's no time to be sentimental because since I'm at the Top Gear Track, it's time for me to see how fast this French icon goes and this might take a long time. Still, it makes a nice footage for me to watch it over and and over. Roll the tape.



I did it in a 2:11.546, which is pathetically slow but I had a lot of fun driving the 2CV round the track.



Love it or hate it, the 2CV remains one of the most important cars ever emerged in France since the end of the Second World War and deep down, it can be a real charmer for everyone who aren't interested in meeting people driving in ultra-expensive sportscars. With so much to tell about how good the 2CV, you'll make wonderful stories with it.

DS Automobiles 7 Crossback

DS Automobiles is France's answer to Toyota's Lexus and Hyundai's Genesis and to date, they've only sold cars that were used to be called Citroens until it matured to be a luxury brand in Groupe PSA's own right such as the DS3, the DS4, and the DS5. Now, to make sure the DS Automobiles brand will stay as...you guessed it, DS Automobiles, they are making an all-original DS-branded car with some bits and bobs from PSA's finest and this new luxury car isn't s car at all. It's just another midsize crossover too much to take for speedo boys.

2018 DS 7 Crossback

You heard it right, ladies and gentlemen, this is DS's first luxury midsize crossover that wants to be a potent competitor against the Lexus NX, the Audi Q3, the Mercedes GLC, the BMW X3, or the Infiniti QX30, to name a few. This is the DS 7 Crossback and as the name implies, it serves as the flagship of the DS Automobiles lineup. I know that just because this is just a medium-sized front-wheel drive only luxury crossover does mean that it's worthless at almost all kinds of stuff but mind you, if your boss suspects that you allegedly crashed most of his or her full-sized SUVs in a middle of traffic, best assured that this is one crossover you might drive one for your boss after work.

The design of the DS 7 Crossback looks almost similar to the Wild Rubis concept it was based on and although luxurious in spirit, the hexagonal-shaped grille looks conspicuously similar to the Audi Q3 while the back, when you squint to it, looks vaguely like a Mitsubishi Outlander. It's hard to determine what kind of design this car possess until you step inside the interior...

2018 DS 7 Crossback interior

2018 DS 7 Crossback interior

Questionable exterior design aside, the DS 7's interior is like you're in a space ship because when you look at the GT by Citroen-styled steering wheel, futuristic instrumental panel, touch panel that does navigation, connectivity, climate control, and other stuff, gear box that looks like it came from Porsche, and an handmade analogue clock in the middle. Along with the leather seats that look like it shaped like the back of Cyborg Ninja's, the DS 7's futuristic interior matches to theme of what lies ahead in the future and I have to tell you this has one of the best interiors ever made to a crossover like this.

As for boot space, it's not quite decent as it seems, in fact, it's somewhat above average overall and there's some room for your suitcases full of stuff packed up for your next business trips. Just a reminder, even though it has decent legroom, you can't put little Miss Shiitake at the back because of the electric rear door, which loses its utility trait like some medium SUVs you know so far.

2018 DS 7 Crossback

Don't count of calling the DS7 Crossback as sporty because it doesn't have the "sport" trait in it like every other midsize SUVs but to keep your boss at the rear seat fresh like a cover of Vogue, it comes with a DS ACTIVE SCAN SUSPENSION which uses a camera attached to the suspension setup and four sensors to anticipate what sort of driving style it goes into. It can be either sporty or comfortable, making the DS 7 well-adapted to their driving style. Sounds scary but flattering at the same time. How convincing.

The DS 7 Crossback comes with five different powertrains with the most powerful in the range is the one with the turbochrged 1.6L petrol engine producing 225PS of power while mated to an EAT8, although some models, probably diesel ones that will soon be outlawed by the French, can be mated to a 6MT. Later on, they will introduce the E-TENSE variant of the DS 7, which is a PHEV much like the Outlander's, but it will produce an overall power output of 300PS while promising better fuel economy. That really is something but for now since this is a luxury car, it's almost impossible to be UBER-fied because of TNVS regulations.

Also, there's more bad news to the DS 7 and that is a wide range of safety tech that will kill every speedo boy's balls in an instant because of its high level of semi-autonomous driving. Yes, there's the DS CONNECTED PILOT that comes with Stop & Go Active Cruise Control but that's just the beginning because it comes with DS PARK PILOT, DS NIGHT VISION, DS DRIVER ATTENTION MONITORING, DS ACTIVE LED VISION, and so much more. With so much advanced tech in a luxury French crossover like this, speedo boys might a well retreat and pave way for the next guy who has interests to it.

The DS 7 Crossback starts at 31,200 Euros which is fairly reasonable compared to other luxury crossovers but to summarize this one up, let me give you a clear reminders about the DS 7. First, the design is tad questionable, the safety tech will scare even the most speedo boys everywhere, and it's not as sporty as it seems. On the plus side, the interior is the real beauty as well as some gadgets in store for the driver. Let's not forget the healthy choice of engines and the incoming E-TENSE variant coming soon and also the smartest suspension ever made in a car like this. It may not be a true SUV as it looks like but the DS 7 is more than enough to keep your boss happy as long as you're not crashing it and making an excuse on why you're late.

Available colors: Blanc Banquise, Gris Artense, Gris Platinum, Noir Perla Nera, Bleu Encre, Or Byzantin, Brun Andaradite, Rouge Absolu, and Blanc Nacre.

Photo: Groupe PSA

MG ZS vs. Citroen C3 Aircross

In the planet of the crossovers, there are some crossovers think they look tough on the outside but in reality, they really are soft on the inside, meaning it's easy to be labeled as weaklings because they don't possess some true capabilities a tough SUV possess but for some, they didn't matter anyway because while the so-called fake-UVs are not so tough as they look, they are made for one major purpose; to get the job done with no questions asked. Such example is MG's latest offering, the ZS SUV, as well as Citroen's C3 Aircross.

2018 MG ZS

2018 MG ZS interior

First, let's talk about the MG ZS, the latest offering from the Chinese-controlled British car company, and judging by the name, the ZS took its name from a relative from the posh but forgettable Rover 75, which is the saloon of choice for the Bethnal Green mob you ran into. While this name is nothing new, this SUV has a clear impression of thinking that they copied the styling of noteworthy crossovers such as the Mazda CX-5 and the Hyundai Tucson. That's the Chinese way, all right, and judging from its looks, the interior wasn't bad either for a five-seater, although the dashboard is as cheap as those outdated gadgets you bought at the thrift store. Although the interior feels a bit outdated by crossover standards, it feels not too bad to get into and you get the sense that you had a dream that you and your friends are driving to a nearby shopping mall in the streets of Muntinlupa City. Not as pretty as it hoped for but it ticks all the right stuff to satisfy your chic craving.

Driving aside, the ZS is powered by a choice of two petrol engines, a 1.5L DOHC and a 1.0L GDi which produces a city-friendly 111PS of power output and 160Nm. The 1.5L model is mated with a 5-speed MT while the 1.0L GDi is mated with a 6-speed AT but either way, you can consider these choices to be a bit decent but average for you especially when the suspension setup is as old-fashioned as a Nokia 3310 phone you got since you were at the fourth grade.

Of course, the ZS is considered to be a value for money because of its 12,495 GBP (844,000 Php) price tag, but despite its affordability, the ZS lacks something a compact crossover should have, even for the fact that it only works on urban roads rather than taking it on road trips on faraway destinations. So, if you need more for a city-worked crossover, consider the Citroen C3 Aircross for a change.

2018 Citroen C3 Aircross

2018 Citroen C3 Aircross interior

The C3 Aircross is the replacement for the funky but somewhat lagging C3 Picasso and starting at 15,950 Euros (960,000 Php), it considers to be a fair value for money which isn't bad for a fake-UV, especially when it uses the same bits and bobs as seen in today's Citroen C3. I mean yes, this is like a C3 but with some added ground clearance to make it look tough but to be honest, despite the high-riding looks, it still behaves like a compact car and it ticks all the right buttons that the MG ZS can't. Then, the interior is as modern as a Kindle Fire. Not as good as it hoped for but it's spacious enough for your thrift store junk, decently comfortable, chic, and simple. That's the Citroen way and you know it.

The most powerful version has a 1.2L petrol engine producing 130PS of power and 230Nm of torque, capable of reaching 0-100kph in 9.3 seconds and onwards to 200kph. Not only it is faster than the ZS but also, it's surprisingly nippy and lively to handle by city car standards. Of course, if you prefer fuel efficiency, you should go for the one with the 100PS BlueHDi engine that has CO2 emissions of 96g/km, which sounds fine but sadly, it won't last long for French roads because it's diesel.

Not only it drives pretty well like a city car, but it's also advanced as a city car as well because of the safety features implemented to give the C3 Aircross peace of mind for the occupants at all sides.

So, how do I sum this up? Well, the MG ZS is one of the cheapest crossovers money can buy but with all that "made in China" stuff, drivers are having that Divisoria feeling when they drive one but for the C3 Aircross, that is like driving in the streets of BGC without all the drama. Despite all the differences, they made proof that despite not being as tough as SUVs should be, they are made for one major purpose; to get the job done with no questions asked.

Photo: MG, PSA

Citroen C-Elysee (2017 minor change)

Back when Citroen decided to sell the C-Elysee compact saloon in Europe following its success in developing markets, including the People's Republic of China, the French car company wanted to make sure that their most affordable four-door saloon tries to cut off against the likes of other low budget saloons in Europe such as the Skoda Rapid, Seat Toledo, or even the Fiat Tipo. Sadly, its regular looks never seem to please motorists as well as its regular driving characteristics. Now, Citroen revised the low-cost saloon for the 2017 model year to cope up with its regularity.

2017 Citroen C-Elysee

2017 Citroen C-Elysee interior

No time to talk because let's see what the recent minor change has done to the low-cost Citroen C-Elysee saloon and how can this new model can keep up with its "regular" characteristics as expected for first-time buyers. First up, the exterior has been revised with the new, broader radiator grill and chrome-plated chevrons that works well with the new headlamps as well as the new LED lighting strip on top of the fog lamps while the rear view has been mildly revised.

The interior has been revised and now features a new 7-inch touchscreen interface with smartphone connectivity that makes full use of its newly found Apple Carplay, MirrorLink, and Android Auto compatibility so your smartphone can feel connected with the new C-Elysee. That all sounds lovely to toy around with but in terms of comfort, it still remains the same as well as its 506-litre boot space for your recent garage sale stuff.

As always, the C-Elysee is still powered by a choice of either a 1.2L petrol engine producing 82PS of power and 1.6L BlueHDi diesel engine producing 100PS of power, both mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.

The new C-Elysee starts at 13,750 Euros, about three hundred more than the previous model but it's still on the same price bracket as the Skoda Rapid, Seat Toledo, or even the Fiat Tipo. It maybe vale for money but you have to be wise enough not to mess this low-cost saloon from the ground up.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

DS Automobiles DS3 vs. Citroen C3 III

2017 DS 3

The hatchback that wa once called the Citroen DS3 is now called simply "DS 3" because DS Automobiles is now a brand in its own right and served as the luxury marque of Citroen, much like Genesis does for Hyundai, separating the men from the boys.

While it looks vaguely similar to the old Citroen DS3, the new DS3 features a new front face and a new rear design that tells you that this car is no longer a Citroen. It's now a DS because DS is now a brand and everyone should stick it to their heads in case if anyone calls it a Citroen and that is very wrong, especially if you're ready, willing, and able to spend 15,950 Euros (or an additional 4,050 Euros for the Cabrio model with a canvas top roof on it).

2017 DS 3 interior

Although the inside very remind you of the old DS3, back when it was called a Citroen, but for the new DS 3, you have so much you can toy around at your free time. One such example is the Mirror Screen compatibility for your iPhone and Android Phone and thanks to its upgraded software on its touchscreen, you have all the time in the world to check on how is your DS 3 doing right now. Because it came from the diminishing line of three-door hatchbacks, getting through the rear seats can be very problematic and stressful if you have mates joining with you for a night out on a town, if you know what I mean.

2017 DS 3

2017 DS 3 Cabrio

Depending on the bodystyle, the DS 3 offers a wide range of petrol and diesel engine choices but if you are sticking with the normal DS3, the most powerful they'll ever offer is a 1.6L turbocharged engine with 208ps of power output and mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, resulting to 6.5 seconds of 0-100kph time and 230kph of top speed, almost similar to the old Citroen DS3 Racing would do, making it a luxury car with the soul of a hot hatch, especially when it comes with an array of safety tech.

The DS 3 has been with us for over half a decade and with this latest version, the new DS 3 by DS Automobiles still has the French chic and casual attitude as expected for a city car but between you and me, this new version feels a bit matured. It's no longer the DS 3 we are familiar with and it's no longer the DS 3 that propelled its rally car status to soaring heights. In fact, if I want a fun French car that is matured on its looks but not on its fun factor, there's a very good alternative to this now-matured DS 3.

2017 Citroen C3

This is the brand new Citroen C3. Starting at 12,950 Euros, this new model is the turning point for Citroen's lineup of affordable cars for all and by the looks of it, the Cactus-styled exterior means that the new C3 is ready for one trip to the mall after another. Best of all, it has five doors, meaning friends can't have a hassle to squeeze themselves through the rear seats and that is very good.

2017 Citroen C3 interior

Apart from its very generous spacing for such a Fiesta-sized car, there's one party piece that the new C3 had and this new car comes with a special dashcam that takes snapshots and then the driver can upload it on social media sites. Much better than showing an embarrassing viral dashcam video of a doofus driver on the road, or perhaps this new ConnectedCAM feature can do some weird dashcam videos like the ones you saw on the net. That is very savvy and very addictive. I like that.

2017 Citroen C3

Apart from the addictive features you can toy around, the new C3 comes with an array of new petrol and diesel engines to choose from. The most powerful is the one with the 1.2L PureTech petrol engine with 110PS of power and can be mated with either a six-speed automatic or a five-speed manual gearbox. Not that powerful by modern standards but it's nippy and cutting less cheeses than a fifth-grader feeling gassy in a classroom. Apart from that, the suspension has been improved to keep it comfortable and enjoyable to drive on the city streets. It maybe regular to drive but the urge to keep it driving for longer is what made the new model great, in my opinion.

2017 Citroen C3

In the end, looks like the new C3 is much more youthful and more enjoyable to own than the facelifted DS 3, and given to the fact that this should be the future rally car for Citroen Racing, looks like the racing pedigree has been revived and with this new model, expect such a strong following for this one because of the tech-savvy features that will keep them addicted for more. So, which would you prefer. If you're more of a socialite, go for the more matured DS 3 but if you're trendy, savvy, and young, best to go for the new C3.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

Citroen C-Elysee

2016 Citroen C-Elysee

When Citroen decided to sell the C-Elysee compact saloon in Europe following its success in developing markets, including the People's Republic of China, the French car company wanted to make sure that their most affordable four-door saloon tries to cut off against the likes of other low budget saloons in Europe such as the Skoda Rapid, Seat Toledo, or even the Fiat Tipo. In general, there's nothing special about owning a low cost French saloon for all intents and purposes on your driving pleasure.

2016 Citroen C-Elysee interior

2016 Citroen C-Elysee interior

Let's keep this short because to be honest, Citroen's latest offering to Europe isn't very special to the drivers who demand more, in fact, it feels a bit as regular as texting on an old Nokia phone while taking a sip of coffee at a coffee shop somewhere in Taipei. For a compact saloon starting at 13,450 Euros, it sounds cheap for a French four-door saloon, even though it was made by the Spanish, but in terms of being an enjoyable ride, that is not a case because you don't feel happy while driving one.

The interior gives you a simple expression of yourself going back to the year 2000s where nothing in life is more enjoyable than texting and playing with your old Nokia phone at home. It's very old fashioned, plasticky, and regular, like a Manila taxi taking you home after an hour-long shopping trip. Yes, it has everything what a driver want such as a radio, an aircon, some cupholders, and anything a car should have but the C-Elysee's interior is too basic and your first impressions will last up about ten minutes or less.

2016 Citroen C-Elysee

Under the hood, the C-Elysee is powered by a choice of either a 1.2L petrol engine producing 82PS of power and 1.6L BlueHDi diesel engine producing 100PS of power, while both mated to a five-speed manual gearbox which sounds fun to our shifty hands but we're not too happy about how it performs because on its highest-spec version, which is the one with the diesel engine on it, top speed is around 183kph so that is about three kilometers per hour faster than most Japanese cars because no matter how powerful they are, they're always stuck on the 180kph speedo limit. How's about that for a plus mark? 

But don't get too excited about it because while this is a commoners' car for the common roads, its sporty character is nowhere to be found, despite the fact that the one used on the WTCC scored a lot of wins before the C-Elysee went on sale on France and all of Mainland Europe. It sure has a racing pedigree, you might ask, but despite being a belter on the WTCC, the C-Elysee wasn't really close to being a potent pugilist to its opposition but to getting to know more about the 13,450 Euro saloon, you need to understand more about the C-Elysee by how it can do for you as well as the value that will left anyone with the knowledge of resale value in question. It takes logic to understand this regular compact saloon from Citroen, but the more you understand, the more chances you will find the answer to the car's key questions about itself.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

DS Automobiles Nouvelle DS5 et Nouvelle DS4 gamme

Citroen's DS lineup has officially left the family and spawned into a standalone luxury brand known as DS Automobiles and while this is done in honor of the DS's 60th year as well as five years of the DS range that started with the DS3, the new DS Automobiles brand ignites the brand identity's "Spirit of Avant-Garde" to their premium range of vehicles sold not just in Europe but in countries including China as well.

2016 DS Automobiles DS5

This is where we start with this. Of course, this is the facelifted Citroen DS5 but like it said, the new model is the first of the DS model not to wear the Citroen badge on it and since this is no longer a Citroen, it's now considered itself as a full-fledged DS car in its own right because with this car, the DS Automobiles brand is born and the spirit of avant-garde kicked in.

Thanks to its newly updated exterior, the new DS 5 is truly a flagship in its own right because from every angle, there's a fair hint of European luxury sprinkled around and without a hint of Citroen badge in sight, this car is well-groomed, well-tailored, and very posh to live on the road. Same goes to the interior as well because getting in has the same level as what you expect from a luxury German saloon car but this isn't a German saloon car, this is a French luxo-barge and who can't blame them?

It sure is a luxury saloon in its own right but at prices start at 29,550 Euros TTC, it's surprisingly accessible to buy one as well. Under the hood, the new DS 5 offers a choice of either a 2.0L turbocharged petrol engine, 1.6L BlueHDi diesel, 2.0L BlueHDi diesel, or a Hybrid4 powertrain with a 2.0L diesel engine connected to an electric motor. Most of the engines are Euro 6 compliant and depending on the engine types, it can be mated with either a 6-speed manual or automatic.

Although not a sporty car to drive, the new DS 5 is a comfortable cruiser suitable for the trips to the country club or a five-star hotel and you can really tell how luxurious the ride really is just by feeling it.

So, while the new DS 5 signalled the birth of the DS Automobiles, let's introduce to the new DS 4, which is also no longer a Citroen-branded hatchback but part of the new DS Automobiles brand.

2016 DS Automobiles DS 4

2016 DS Automobiles DS 4 Crossback

Here it is, the new DS 4 and now it spawned an additional crossover model called the DS 4 Crossback. Now, there are two DS 4 models to choose from but which ever DS 4 you choose, they're still the same thing and if anyone recalled driving the former Citroen DS4 in the distant past, some might recalled that it's far comparable to its Alfa Romeo Giulietta rival because it might have plenty of style but no cider. Same thing goes to the new Crossback model because while this maybe a crossover variant, the experience of driving one can be comparable to listening to Crossover FM on the radio. All that jazz, I dare say.

The range of engines include a 1.2L PureTech 130, 1.6L THP 165/200, 1.6L e-HDi 115/BlueHDi 120, and a 2.0L BlueHDi 150/180 and whichever engines you choose, it can be mated with either a 6-speed manual or automatic.

The new DS 4 starts at 23,700 Euros TTC while the Crossback model starts at 27,200 Euros TTC.

So, there we are, the new DS models may have christened the birth of the DS Automobiles brand but some people remain skeptical about Citroen's move of spawning the DS as a stand-alone luxury brand in the same way Lexus is to Toyota, but whatever the heck is, let's wish the new DS Automobiles the best of luck putting the Spirit of Avant-Garde to the motoring public.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

Citroen C4 Cactus

The Citroen C4 range once has a hatchback, the Picasso minivans, and the Aircross compact SUV. Now, the C4 family has expanded with a new member and what's this? C4 Cactus? The Cactus is a crossover, just like the Aircross, but there's more to this story than that.

2015 Citroen C4 Cactus

You see the Citroen C4 Cactus isn't more of a crossover nor a compact in its own right. It was made for those who can't really afford a regular C4 hatchback because when you look at their prices, the C4 Cactus starts at 13,950 Euros TTC, which is 5,250 Euros less than the normal C4 hatchback. That's a good merit for the Cactus, but what can you expect from the C4's lesser sibling?

Judging by its looks, it can be somewhat too cheeky in design terms. The front face looks as if it has the headlamps of the new Jeep Cherokee while the paneling on the side view feels like when steel and chocolate got accidentally fused. Oh my goodness. It looks like a mutated chocolate bar on wheels and if anyone has a craving for chocolates, look away now because you've just chased a moving piece of chocolate bar. Ha ha ha...

2015 Citroen C4 Cactus interior

2015 Citroen C4 Cactus interior

What about the interior? Well, I was expecting good things and it is but only just. When fully equipped, you can enjoy what's inside the Cactus and you'll get the same experience as you would expect from a cheap girl's car from Japan. Yes, Toyota Passo reference. But this isn't a Toyota Passo for some unknown reasons. This is a budget car loaded with some premium stuff such as a digital instrumental panel, touch screen for climate control, navigation, radio, and some thingamabobs, and for the first time, the airbag was displaced to the roof. Sounds clever but what about driving.

It behaves like a normal and civilized car. There's no complicated wizardry involved and driving one of these is incredibly easy, although you might be experiencing some understeering but never mind about that. The C4 Cactus is a simple car made for novice of drivers because thanks to its low cost of ownership, almost everyone can afford this simple machine made of simple stuff.

For a car so simple, the Cactus is available with the choice of three petrol engines and two diesel engines. The top-of-the-line is the one with the BlueHDi 100 engine mated with a 5-speed manual gearbox. It will do 0-100kph in 10.7 seconds and a top speed of 184kph. It's not what you call quick but as a city car, the Cactus tries to be content with what it has but is the car content even though it doesn't have a split-fold rear seat or a wind-down back windows? Even though it doesn't have those like you would expect in a typical Citroen, it's natural.

2015 Citroen C4 Cactus

So would you buy one? Even though it costs less than a normal C4, you should go for it if you're new to the world of motoring but if you want something even more affordable than the C4 Cactus but sacrifice its sizing for something else, get yourself a new C1.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

Citroen C1 II

2015 Citroen C1

The Peugeot 108 has its own twin rival and even though they look different on the outside terms, the new Citroen C1 feels technically the same as the Peugeot 108 as examined before. As a matter of fact, both the Peugeot 108 and the new Citroen C1 were part of the Toyota-PSA triplets born from Kolin, Czech Republic, since the first ones. It's kinda more of a Japanese-French collaboration, don't you think?

Like the Peugeot 108, the Citroen C1 can be offered on either a three-door or five-door and can be fitted with a 1.0L e-VTi 68 Airdream or the 1.2L VTi 82 PureTech petrol engine. You can even opt in for the Airscape model, which comes with a canvas roof at the top as similar to the Peugeot 108's TOP variant.

2015 Citroen C1 interior

2015 Citroen C1 interior

Like the Peugeot 108, the Citroen C1 still comes with the same quality like you expect from budget compacts but it can be configurable by request. You can even have it with the 7-inch screen featuring Mirror Screen where our satnav will serve as the mirror of the compatible smartphone connected. I should warn you that when people go for the Airscape variant, because this is one of the city cars to drive in the summer holiday in Europe,  even when you close the roof off, you can expect some few winds slip through or the noise from within. Yes, that sounds way too familiar to you when you read anyone's first impressions because first impressions don't usually come impressed but when you get used to it, this city car deserves a lot of respect and a lot of love love love.

2015 Citroen C1

The 1.0L e-VTi 68 Airdream engine on the new C1 develops 68PS of power output and it's mated with a 5-speed manual. Even though it's not quite as quicker as the competition, it's one of the most fuel-efficient cars ever made because 26.3km/L is usually plenty for its fuel economy, although actual fuel mileage can vary, depending on your driving style.

As for the 1.2L VTi 82 PureTech petrol engine, developed by PSA Peugeot Citroen, this engine develops 82PS of power output, 23.3km/L of fuel economy, and 99g/km of CO2 emissions. That sounds a lot for a city car but even though these engines are not powerful enough to sneeze your way home, its pseudo McPherson front axle and a deformable rear beam can really add some smile all day long...unless if you're Grumpy and you know it.

2015 Citroen C1

In terms of pricing, the new C1 is more affordable than the 108 because while it starts at 10,150 Euros, the new Citroen C1 costs 9,950 Euros so can anyone hardly explain why this Citroen is way cheaper than its 108 twin? Anyone? Nope? Nope. No comment but surprisingly, the new model is now 200 Euros lower than the old C1.

So there it is, it's very difficult to distinguish which to choose these French city car twins because while the 108 is a high-quality city compact in its own right when well-equipped, the new C1 is much more of an affordable alternative and with so many choices to choose from, it takes guts to determine the winner.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

GT6: Cars that are Gran Turismo exclusive - Citroen 2CV

Today, it's the unorthodox classic from Citroen. It's the 2CV, a product of a post-war France and it was known to be one of the most successful models at that moment in time. From 1948 to 1990, Citroen produced 3,872,583 units of this oddball in numerous countries not only France but also from Belgium, United Kingdom, Argentina, Uruguay, Portugal, and Chile.

This 2CV will run through the Goodwood Hill Climb but at what time will it post?




It posted a 2:16.717 lap time!

It maybe pathetically slower and less powerful than a wheelchair rigged with fire extinguishers but magnifique! It managed to get the job done in a slow and steady pace but not for the fun of it. Only the world of Gran Turismo lets you drive this post-war French classic and no other game does it. Period.

Citroen 2CV - A GRAN TURISMO EXCLUSIVE CAR.

Citroen Grand C4 Picasso II

2014 Citroen Grand C4 Picasso

2014 Citroen Grand C4 Picasso interior

A couple of months ago, a brand new generation of Citroen C4 Picasso was showcased to the world and although the exterior looks a bit more vague than the old one, the interior is starting to be more redeemable rather than being too redundant for a people carrier because of its tech-loaded goodies as well as the clever touch screen. Sitting in here is like riding on a spaceship on wheels but as a warning, it feels a bit old fashioned.

Now, its longer brother, the Grand C4 Picasso is following suit as well and although it still looks like the new Picasso aside from its controversial looks, it's still a people carrier worth capable of carrying a typical French family who want to spend the remaining days of summer going places. The Grand C4 Picasso targets the VW Sharan, SEAT Alhambra, the Renault Grand Scenic, and the Peugeot 5008 respectively and although it maybe not as classy as the luxury minivans from Japan such as the Estima, the Alphard, the Elgrand, and the Elysion, the interior's still had the same tech-savvy goodness as expected on the normal 5-seater C4 Picasso especially the 12-inch HD screen for the instrumental panel, the addictive touch screen, the optional rear seat entertainment system, and so much more for the tech geeks.

Like its 5-seater cousin, the 7-passenger Grand C4 Picasso retains the choice of engines such as a VTi 120, a THP 155, e-HDi 115, and the e-HDi 90 Airdream engine respectively. Let's not forget that the e-HDI 90 Airdream engine, combined with an ETG6 gearbox, emits just 98g/km with a combined fuel economy of just 74.3mpg, the best in its class. What's more is that the Grand C4 Picasso is loaded with cutting edge safety features that cares the occupants more than the car itself such as the radar guided cruise control, Intelligent traction control, Lane Departure Warning System, blind spot monitoring, and the very clever anti-collision warning system that uses the front radar to alert drivers when this car's getting too close for collision. It also has the feature similar to Nissan's Around View Monitor and that feature's exclusive in this segment. Amazingly, the new Grand C4 Picasso also got Park Assist which can park the car automatically when it sees an available parking space. You can even read a book or drink coffee while this car's parking by itself. Clever, isn't it?

So, the new Grand C4 Picasso though, it may not be a good-looking MPV for seven passengers but with loads of gizmos and an array of fuel-efficient engines, not to mention the fact that they're planning a more Euro 6 compliant BlueHDi 150 engine sometime next year or so, it's worth a redeemable one. One thing to aware for is its pricing and it starts at 23,050 Euros, cheaper than the Grand Scenic.

Available colors: Blanc Banquise, Bleu Teles Nacre, Bleu Kyanos Nacre, Noir Onyx, Hichory Nacre, Gris Aluminium Metallic, Gris Shark Nacre, and Rouge Rubi Nacre.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

Citroen C4 Picasso II

2014 Citroen C4 Picasso

Now, let's take a look at the all new, second-generation Citroen C4 Picasso, the newest version of Citroen's people carrier that is suitable for what is French for the word "soccer mom". Although, it's now lighter and more compact than the previous model it replaces, the new C4 Picasso offers a wide variety of engines to chose from such as a VTi 120, a THP 155, e-HDi 115, and an all new e-HDi 90 Airdream engine which is the first ever MPV to emit less than 100g/km of CO2 with a conventional, internal-combustion engine. When mated with an all-new 6-speed clutchless gearbox (ETG6), fuel economy for this new engine reaches 3.8 l/100 km or 26.3km/L. Starting at just 23,050 Euros, this new model is more expensive than its rival, the Renault Scenic.

In terms of design, this new model is a bit to shoddy and once again, this is just another one of the weird-looking cars to be ever come out this year that is just too "west of weird". I mean look at this front view, I mean, I'd prefer the front view of the previous model rather than this odd looking front end because it's too disturbing for a family car like this. Still, this is the French way when it comes to car designs because today's French cars are a bit "ouest de bizarre", they want everyday cars to be more weirder and untrue than other European cars look like. Anyway, while the new exterior is the least of my problems, let's take a look on the inside where things are about to get interesting...

2014 Citroen C4 Picasso

Okay, seems that new interior is getting a bit more classy than the old model though. What's so cool about the new dashboard is this 12-inch HD screen for the instrumental panel that checks out how the driver does, especially checking the current location of the driver. That's science fiction without the fiction, feels like I'm in a luxury spaceship flying around the distant galaxy.though except this isn't a spaceship but it is when you tell the kids at the back. Also, there's this addictive touch screen as expected on the 208 except this isn't the 208's or the 2008's touch screen. This is even more techie than that. Look at it, this cool touchscreen controls all the in-car functions, including the dual-zone air conditioning, navigation, audio, telephone, driving aids and connected services. Also, the new Picasso has a bigger boot for your groceries. It's now 40 liters more than the old model, at 537 liters up to 637 liters with the rear seats pushed forward.

2014 Citroen C4 Picasso

So, how about what it feels like when you use it as an everyday car? Well, for starters, the new model is built on an entirely new EMP2 platform so therefore it's 140 kg lighter than the old car, which is good but how good was it? Sadly though, it's not quite good enough on the bends and then there's the suspension because it feels as bouncy as hell. I can hardly imagine what would the kids at the back would think while getting through such situation but in the straights, it feels a bit redeeming...but how redeeming was that? It's a bit tad old-fashioned. It maybe a character-building car but as a concept, it's a bit terrible rubbish to me. This is about as rubbish as an idiot who lives in a condo and then taking a peep into someone else's TV and makes up a dialogue for his own tastes in a husky kind of way.

The judgment then is simple; it may not be well civilized in terms of handling but if you bear in mind about practicality and technology and ignore the ugly front view, it's really not too bad...unless you are a victim of a botched eye operation and you are looking for a car that is catastrophically ugly. For a wild card, find something even cheaper than the new Picasso or the new Renault Scenic. How about a Kangoo or the Partner Tepee instead? Oh well, you'd better of with Postman Pat instead of a people carrier that was built to be "west of weird" for the oncoming summer holday.

Available colors: Blanc Banquise, Bleu Teles, Bleu Kyanos, Noir Onyx, Hickory, Gris Aluminium, Gris Shark, and Rouge Rubi.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

Citroen DS3 Cabrio

The Citroen DS3...It's been around for three years but the X Factor behind the beauty of the DS3 still never gets old these days. It's the glam that keeps the DS3 fashionable and because this is the best looking hatchback made by the French, I was starting to be fascinated by its looks and its subtlety. From what I'm thinking at, the comfort of the DS3 has the premium of an expensive luxury car and with such gadgetry, there's something that really amazed me. This is somewhat France's answer to Fiat 500 of some sorts and hey, Citroen's taking the page from its Fiat 500 rival by creating a Cabrio version of Citroen's most fashionable hatchback in the world...

2014 Citroen DS3 Cabrio

Hmmm....even when they said Cabrio, guess this isn't more of an open-top treat but as I may know, it comes with the stylish canvas roof that can be opened or closed in just 16 seconds. With the canvas top closed, it looks like the same DS3 but with the canvas top opened, this is a DS3 on a totally new level. However, there is one drawback about this cabrio model and even though Citroen didn't take away the roof off, the DS3 Cabrio weighs 25 kilos more than the normal model, probably because of structural reinforcements around the boot.

Despite being 25kg more, I am glad to say that whoever accidentally owned a Citroen C3 Pluriel, the one with the very complicating roof mechanism on that takes the owner minutes or hours to open or close it, might find solace on the DS3 Cabrio. That's good news though, I want this one more than the useless C3 Pluriel, that's for sure. Besides, unlike the Pluriel, the DS3 Cabrio's canvas top can be closed and opened at the touch of a button. You'll be glad to have one of these though...

In terms of engine choices, the DS3 Cabrio carries on with the VTi 120, THP 155, VTi 82, and the e-HDi 90 Airdream engine choices here and depending on the engine types, the driver may chose between a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, 4-speed automatic, and a 6-speed semi-automatic transmission. As for the pricing, it starts at 18,800 Euros, this is more pricey than the normal DS3 model but never mind about that, it's still one of the most stylish hatchbacks ever made with the canvas top on it that can be opened and closed  at the touch of the button though. In fact, I'm starting to like this poshier version of the hatchback that's already being the posh one. A DS3 is already posh but a DS3 with the canvas top on it is even more posh. It's what posh people want...metaphorically speaking...

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

My souffle for September - the DS4

Doesn't look more souffle to me

This is the souffle of the Forza Motorsport 4's September Pennzoil Car Pack, well not exactly a souffle to us unless you remember the souffle girl last weekend's. This is the Citroen DS4 and some people say that this is somewhat the French alternative...to the Alfa Romeo Giulietta.

I was really bothered about this but the one that FM4 featured here comes with the THP 200 engine, the one that the Peugeot RCZ have and believe it or not, this one's not as good as the Alfa Giulietta when I tried. Sure, the Giulietta is all about the finesse and the touch of class but for this one...plenty of style but no cider. The steering's a bit heavy, it's a bit harsh, and as observed, feels like I overcooked my favorite souffle for the souffle girl. 

A mountain to climb for...

That gave me an interesting idea. Instead of comparing this to the Giuletta because as I'm sure I know, the Giulietta will easily slit the DS4's throat in terms of speed and handling, I would rather compare this one to the Citroen from the past.

Citroen C4 VTS

This one is the old Citroen C4 VTS. The one that was used as Sebastien Loeb's rally car from the past until it was replaced by the DS3. When the second generation C4 came, the Coupe was discontinued and furthermore, Citroen has stated that the DS4 is not intended as a successor to the Citroen C4 Coupe.

First up, the drag race. Remember the DS4 comes with the RCZ's THP 200 engine which produces more power than the old C4 VTS. However, it's heavier than the C4 VTS. Top speed for the new DS4 with the THP 200 engine is 235kph while for the old C4 VTS can go about 227kph. Let's see if we can translate science into speed with a quarter mile drag race...

So, the DS4 has done that but now, let's translate science into track times at the Top Gear Test Track and I need a driver and I have one. Some say he believes that Christmas is a load of @#$%....and he is...




The Citroen C4 VTS did it in 1:36.668 while the Citroen DS4 THP 200 did it in 1:35.495 so to be honest, it did better than the old C4 VTS but sadly though, I am not happy with the burnt souffle with some eggs to exterminate. I mean, imagine if I put an egg to the passenger seat of the DS4, you know that this would be a childish science experiment to analyze its handling and grip. The only way that the egg's going to be EGG-STIR-MINUTE-d is when you handle it too hard or some rough oversteer.

In short, I didn't like the DS4 because of its heavy steering but as a decent alternative to the old C4 VTS, you'll know that this works quite well.

DS4's Rage