Citroën is taking advantage of the year's end to unveil an upgraded version of its popular C1 city car. It is already available in Malta.

The C1 earned the highest mark in the 'essential car' category in a 2008 survey conducted by JD Power and L'Automobile Magazine on customer satisfaction in France.

Since the C1 was launched in June 2005, Citroën has sold over 310,000 worldwide.

The new model keeps all the assets that made the original a success - compact, appealing and playful body styling, road-holding, uncompromising safety and impressive quality levels - while gaining a redesigned, more expressive front end.

The 68 bhp 1.0-litre petrol model equipped with a five-speed manual gearbox consumes just 4.5 litres/100 km over a combined cycle, emitting a mere 106 g/km of CO2.

The styling upgrade enhances the car's cheerful, curvaceous looks with several changes to the front end, including stronger bumper outlines that underline the C1's get-up-and-go spirit. Citroën has made several changes inside, notably in terms of trim and interior design scheme. Two new fabric trims in dominant dark blue and Bordeaux red lend vitality and elegance to the cabin.

At the front, elbow room of 1,380 mm and head room of 870 mm enhance the well-being of occupants. Rear passengers are treated to generous leg room and 840 mm head room.

The C1 houses some 12 stowage compartments, fitted in the dashboard, central console and doors. All of them keep objects exactly where drivers and passengers want them to be.

The three- and five-door versions also retain the innovative transparent styling feature at the rear. Designed to be as big as possible, the all-glass tailgate is framed by harmonious crystal and anthracite lights that merge naturally with the bumper.

The 2009 price for the three-door C1 starts at €10,600. For more information, contact Muscats Motors Ltd on 23264583/4/5.