Skoda Citigo 1.0 75PS: City Driving on a Budget
Skoda’s Citigo 1.0-litre 75PS three-door brings practical city motoring, with nimble handling, compact dimensions and a focus on affordability, but not without compromise.
Skoda’s Citigo 1.0-litre 75PS three-door was designed for city life, and it shows from the moment you drive it. Its compact proportions, light controls and frugal engine make it an attractive proposition for buyers seeking an affordable runabout. But the Citigo’s strengths and weaknesses become clear as soon as you leave the city limits.
Performance and handling in the city
The Citigo’s 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol is the most powerful version in the range, producing 75PS. Paired with a five-speed manual, it gives the car enough punch for urban use. Throttle response is lively above 2,000rpm, and the car’s light weight helps it feel nippy at city speeds. The steering is direct and well-weighted up to 100km/h, making it easy to dart through traffic or squeeze into tight parking spots. Large door mirrors, almost SUV-sized, provide excellent rearward visibility, useful for parallel parking, though they can be cumbersome in narrow gaps.
Rear parking sensors and good all-round visibility mean the Citigo is genuinely easy to live with in town. The suspension soaks up speed bumps and potholes for front occupants, though the ride is less forgiving in the back. Rear seat comfort is compromised on rougher roads, which is worth noting for anyone regularly carrying passengers.
Fuel economy and real-world consumption
Skoda’s official combined fuel consumption figure for the Citigo 75PS is 4.7L/100km. In practice, urban drivers are likely to see higher numbers. Reported trip computer figures ranged from 7.0L/100km in city conditions to 6.2L/100km on a short motorway run, with air conditioning use making a noticeable difference. Drivers prioritising efficiency will need to moderate use of climate control and keep speeds sensible to approach the official figures.
Interior space and usability
Despite its small footprint, the Citigo’s cabin makes good use of space. Four adults can fit, though rear legroom is tight for taller passengers. The front seats offer ample adjustment, and the driving position is comfortable even for those over six feet tall. The dashboard is functional, with controls logically placed and storage spaces in the doors, centre and glovebox. Materials are basic but in line with the Citigo’s price point.
Rear seat comfort is a weak point, especially over broken surfaces. The suspension that works well for the driver and front passenger translates to a harsher ride in the back, and side support is limited. Still, for short trips and city use, the Citigo is practical enough for most buyers in its segment.
How it compares and what’s next
The Citigo’s closest rivals are other city cars such as the Volkswagen Up and SEAT Mii, with which it shares its platform and much of its engineering. Buyers interested in an electric version may wish to watch developments, as Skoda has previously signalled plans for a Citigo-based EV, though at the time of this test drive, only petrol versions were available. For more on Skoda’s future plans, see Skoda Plans Citigo-Based Electric Car for 2014 Launch
- Agile handling and easy parking in city traffic
- Spacious cabin for its size, with four usable seats
- Fuel economy in real-world use falls short of official claims
- Rear seat comfort compromised on rough roads
