Citroen Xantia Turbo Estate

Performance estate cars. As dull as ditchwater, or understated heroes? Discuss.

Around the turn of the last decade, there was a glut of estates launched with a GT’ suffix, or similar, although the concept has never really quite caught on, the odd Audi excepted.

Citroen has created something of a niche market with this hybrid, an estate carrying the excellent 2.0 turbo housed in the Xantia Activa (and the Peugeot 406).

In common with most estate cars, it doesn’t look too remarkable (though it has a touch more aesthetic flair), but its unfussy exterior conceals a silken punch. With a massive spread of torque (173 lb ft at just 2500 rpm) and a complete absence of inertia, the 150 bhp engine is as willing as it is smooth.

Only available with Citroen’s plush VSX trim option, which includes air conditioning, electric everything and self-levelling Hydractive suspension), it costs £18,280. Sharp. Stylish. Silly not to consider it. S A