By now you’ve probably heard all about the remake of the classic 1969 film The Italian Job. The words ‘American’ and ‘cash-in’ spring to mind, since this time the heist isn’t even in Italy for goodness sake, but in Los Angeles. I wouldn’t mind so much if it wasn’t such a blatant way for some fat film producer to make some quick money in a way that will end up diluting something great.

It’s the same with the Citroen C5 VTR. Remember the Saxo of the same designation? It was a genuine hot hatch in the 205 GTi mould and it stood for something – speed, handling and perhaps even a little rebellion. So capitalising on this, Citroen have added a VTR member to the C5 range, aimed at younger fleet users who probably had a Saxo in their younger days and, despite growing up, collecting a marriage, mortgage and child along the way, still want something a little sporty.

However, this VTR is nothing more than a spoiler, 16-inch alloys and an optional mesh grille, while inside the central console has been given some carbon-fibre-effect plastic that looks more like fish scales. Oh, and don’t forget the leather steering wheel.

The engines available are either the 117bhp 1.8 petrol or 110bhp two-litre HDi diesel and both of these and the suspension have been left untouched, meaning its sporting image is just that; an image created by the marketing department and not by its performance.

Despite all these aesthetic touches, the C5 VTR is missing something that the Saxo VTR had in spades – character. And any car lacking that is almost as bad as a version of The Italian Job without Michael Caine shouting: ‘You’re only supposed to blow the bloody doors off!’

Paul Walton

Back to Citroen C5 Overview