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Citroen Saxo Forte

Big deal

When buying a first car, most of us flick straight to the 'banger' section of the local paper. With a pocket money budget to cover the purchase and insurance, teenage drivers expect to have to slum it.

By Lesley Harris

August 2002

When buying a first car, most of us flick straight to the 'banger' section of the local paper. With a pocket money budget to cover the purchase and insurance, teenage drivers expect to have to slum it.

But today's youth can have it much easier, thanks to a great deal from Citroen. Instead of paying ΂£170 a month to insure an 18-year-old on an elderly Metro, they can pay the same amount to the French firm and get a new Saxo 1.1 Forte on the 'Elect 3' leasing scheme with insurance thrown in free for the first year. Citroen will even pay the ΂£700 deposit. After two years, the finance plan allows you to give the car back, trade up or buy it outright.

Even allowing for the fact that you'll have to cough up for your own insurance premium after the first 12 months, you'll have acquired a year's no-claims (touch wood) to make cover more affordable. What's the catch? Very little, except that the Saxo isn't exactly cutting edge compared to supermini rivals. It's cramped, the driving position is awkward and the brakes are dead-feeling, but it does ride well and is good fun to drive.

As with that ΂£500 banger, you can't expect ABS or power-steering. In fact, it's a pleasant surprise to find a radio/ CD player, natty red trim and a slide and tilt sunroof all thrown in as part of the package - not bad for this price. So perhaps for today's new drivers, motoring life does begin at Forte...

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FIRST OPINION

    As a means of transport for teenagers, only the bus can be cheaper than the Saxo Forte. Free insurance, cashback and a budget leasing scheme mean the Citroen is one of the most cost-effective ways for new drivers to begin their motoring career.
 

AT A GLANCE

    Saxo Forte available now through 'Elect 3', priced £6,695
    One year's free insurance included for drivers aged 18-80
    Fun to drive with excellent ride and entertaining handling
    Sprightly 1.1-litre petrol engine offers 44mpg fuel economy
     
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