Citroën has taken its lively 125bhp C2 1.6i 16V VTS supermini and enhanced it with a luxurious full leather interior, sporty exterior styling touches and an exclusive paint job to create the new, high performance C2 Code special edition - all for a cracking £10,545.

Sporting a unique athletic look, complete with a full-length roof stripe, a chrome exhaust pipe and smart 16" alloys, Citroën's C2 Code stands out from the crowd whether dressed in the striking new iron grey pearlescent paint work or a dynamic black look. What is more, the cost of these colours is included in the price.

On the inside the C2 Code really sets itself apart from other small hot hatches - the sports-style, bolstered seats and door panels are coated with a rich new leather trim, while the front occupants benefit from the added luxury of heated seats. A sparkling aluminum gear knob hints at the performance credentials of this hot hatch, whilst added practicality is provided by the independently sliding and folding split rear seat design.

The quick and refined 1.6i 16V engine reinforces the sporty vibe.

A 0 to 62mph time of a little over eight seconds and a top speed of 126mph combine with a frugal 41mpg on the combined cycle and a recommended retail price of just £10,545 to give the Citroën C2 Code one of the best pound v performance ratios on the road.

Despite its lower list price, and the addition of those smart interior and exterior touches, the C2 Code offers the same standard equipment as the VTS, which last year accounted for around 15% of all C2 sales. The kit list includes air conditioning, electric one-touch front windows, ESP, four airbags, an anti-theft alarm and fog lights.