Launched in 1999, the sportier version of the compact Citroen Xsara made a good impression.
Its low body and high power to weight ratio made for a good French answer against the more-acclaimed german VW Golf GTI.

The Xsara VTS is produced only in two-door hatchback variants, and the engine was a newly developed four-cylinder unit. The 2.0-liter engine is naturally aspirated and develops 167 hp and 197 Nm (145 lb-ft) of torque. With the help of its low weight of only 1190 kg (2623 lbs), the 0-100 kph (0-62 mph) is done in just 6.9 seconds and the car has a top-speed of 225 kph. The transmission is via a five-speed gearbox to the front wheels. Citroen said that there will not be an available automatic gearbox. The brakes are with front and rear discs and ABS is installed as standard.

Inside, there is room for five people, but not too much headroom for the rear-seat passengers. Front seats are bucket-type and will hold occupants tight when hard cornering. The audio system is a radio-cassette player, but as an option, customers could choose a CD-player.

Trunk space is not very big, but it is enough to carry luggage for a weekend trip.