Skoda Citigo 2017 first drive

The Skoda Citigo has been given a facelift some 200,000 sales and six years after entering the market. 

Originally launched alongside its Volkswagen Group siblings, the Seat Mii and Volkswagen Up, the Citigo now comes with extra kit - but retains a familiar feel.

The changes aren’t drastic. The car's mechanicals have been left untouched, while bumper styling changes have extended the car's length by 34mm. A few other exterior styling and equipment modifications, and the addition of more kit, complete the update.

The Citigo's bonnet now has more muscular-looking bulges in it, while the chrome-edged front grille and bumper have also been tweaked slightly. The rear end styling has also been revised with SE models getting tinted brake lights. New for this version of the Citigo are redesigned 15in alloy wheels and an alluring Kiwi Green body colour, which replaces the Spring Green paint previously available.

Inside is where you will spot most of the differences, which include a new instrument cluster and updated infotainment options. Our test car was fitted with the Swing infotainment system, which is available on all models above the entry-level S trim, and is similar in look and operation to the one on the facelifted Up. The new infotainment system also comes complete with a smartphone dock, which Skoda replaces the Garmin-powered device previously offered. The main reason was to offer the driver more control and flexibility through Skoda’s Move&Fun app, which provides users with sat-nav, driving data, radio and Bluetooth connectivity.

The facelifted Citigo retains the familiar drive of the previous version. Even in this entry-level 59bhp guise, the engine is surprisingly free-revving and willing. Although not quick, it is gutsy enough to make light of the stop-start nature of city driving.

The 1.0-litre engine is decently refined, with its thrummy note only making itself known when you thrash it and otherwise only humming away in the background. Even out on the open roads and motorways, the Citigo only occasionally feels out its depth, though it's plainly happier pottering around urban streets.

The little Skoda handles tidily and accurately enough, with fairly strong grip and precision in the corners. The steering is light, but weights up a tad under load. Ultimately it feels too remote to make the car particularly fun or involving.

The ride is pretty decent, absorbing rutted Czech rural roads well enough. At lower speeds and over harsher lumps, it does tend to get caught out with harsh impacts and vibrations filtering through into the interior.