CITROEN's Xsara 1.9 litre diesel is fast becoming one of Citroen's most popular models.

The 1905cc diesel unit is available with normal aspiration or with turbocharging, and the latter 90 horsepower affair is claimed to achieve a performance high of 111 miles an hour and hit 60 mph in under 12 seconds.

There may not be the accepted 545ccs worth of difference above the 1.4 and the fuel itself remains disappointingly dear - but you are buying the finest passenger car diesel technology in the world.

You can expect the unit to provide above 40 mpg, to be good for 200,000 miles or more - and to enhance the vehicle's resale value should it not be kept.

The diesel engines are each mated to a five speed manual gearbox, with an autoshift being available only with the 1.8 litre petrol engine. In addition to the drivetrain expertise, the powered steering system is a delight.

Xsara has automatic air conditioning - a boon at any time of the year - from the SX model upwards while all of the versions feature a rake and reach adjustable steering wheel, steering wheel mounted stereo and rear screen heater controls, a door open warning display, an RDS stereo radio/cassette system and pollen filter.

Living with Xsara is made straightforward and easy with a host of well considered touches around the vehicle.

They include a maintenance indicator (on switch on, a spanner appears and the number of miles to go before the next service is shown), there are gas support struts for the bonnet, three-position opening doors and visible child lock indicators.

A unique height and tilt adjustable rear view mirror and three piece bumper protection mouldings are further illustrations of the level of attention to detail programmed in at the design stage.

The steering wheel is beautifully designed to keep the instruments in view for most of the time and the gear lever is short and stubby.

There is ample roofing height and more than adequate leg and elbow room.

This and all Xsaras incorporate height adjustable front and rear seatbelts, a transponder immobiliser, central locking with deadlocks, a 'door open, key in lock" warning buzzer, rear seat back isolation locks and fuel safety devices.

SX also has tilt adjustable front head restraints, front seat back pockets, driver's seat height adjustment, a split folding rear seat also with head restraints and velour upholstery.

The keypad, so successful in deterring thieves, has had to go because it was also found to be preventing owners from getting mobilised as well!

Service intervals with the TD are set at 6,000 miles.

For further details or to arrange a test drive in the fabulous Citroen Xsara or on any other model in the Citroen range, contact Peter Roberts at Cubbin & North, Teehey Lane, Bebington. Tel 0151 608 2242.

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