1999 Citroen Xantia SX review from UK and Ireland

I bought this one recently to go to and from work since my Renault RX4 isn't the most economical vehicle on runs like this.

When I got the car I found that the remote-locking key wouldn't work. Replacing the battery in the key had no effect. I now suspect that a replacement key unit is required, but I can live with locking and unlocking it manually at present.

There is also a strange smell of coolant coming through the ventilation when the heating is on. I have checked the radiator, cooling system, heater matrix etc and found no sign of any leak. I'll just have to keep an eye on it and see if it changes with use.

Boot operating button also a little on the stiff side, and sometimes requires a swift whack to get it to return to the correct position.

A much lighter car than the RX4 which I am used to, and hence I've been impressed with the acceleration and general manoeuvrability. The mirrors are a lot smaller than the Renault's, which took a little getting used to, and the rear spoiler means that reversing into parking spaces has to be done quite carefully.

The seats are extremely comfortable and the general driving position doesn't cause any aches and pains.

Being used to Renaults, I found the controls took a little getting used to, but it all got worked out in the end.

My only real gripe is that the stereo controls are mounted on the steering wheel rather than on a stalk as in the Renault. This means that they are a little difficult to operate unless the wheel is in the dead-ahead position.