Skoda New Zealand has just introduced the new Citigo subcompact as the latest addition to the model range. It is the Skoda’s first city car and slots in below the Fabia, representing and represents Skoda’s entry into the fast growing A00 segment.
At 3.56 metres long, 1.65 metres wide and 1.48 metres high, the Citigo is certainly compact, but its 2.42m wheelbase provides enough room for four to travel in comfort. The boot is a sizeable 251 litres, which can be extended to 934 litres by folding down the rear seats.
The Citigo ranks among the most compact and at the same time among the roomiest representatives of its segment. It's very spacious in the distinctive front seats with their integrated headrests and adults can comfortably fit in the back.
In keeping with the brand’s ‘Simply Clever’ claim, the car impresses with a number of ingenious features such as a photo and document holder, a bag hook on the glove compartment, a range of net holders and the new Citigo’s many storage options.
In terms of safety, the Citigo has secured a five-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash tests – together with its siblings Volkswagen up! and Seat Mii, which is a fine achievement for a car of its size. Four airbags are fitted as standard, including innovative head-thorax side airbags that protect the full length of the upper body of driver and front passenger. ESP – Electronic Stability Programme is included too.
City Safe Drive is also fitted as standard. This activates at speeds below 30 km/h and can detect an imminent low speed collision of the kind that happens so often in an urban setting. When a laser sensor spots that you're about to rear-end the car in front, the system automatically applies the brakes.
When it comes to ride and handling, stability and the razor sharp turning circle a good city car needs, the Citigo's wheels are positioned right out to its four corners. The car achieves the desired effects too, producing a nimble drive around town helped by the light steering and good cornering control on the open road.
Power comes from a three-cylinder petrol engine with one litre of displacement that can be ordered in the 55kW powertrain. CO2 emissions in the new Skoda model amount to just 105 g CO2/km.
Pricing starts from $18,990 and $19,990 for the MPI 55kW manual and automatic version respectively.
