A RESTYLED front end, a better-equipped interior with new facia, reshaped seats, enhanced safety and security features and more equipment give the latest Citro_n Xantia a boost in 1998. But best of all is news of a useful price realignment - with a reduction of more than ú2,000 in the Xantia Activa's case. The changes have freshened up the Xantia's appeal in a sector of the market where it has begun to struggle in the face of stiff competition from the newer models such as the Volkswagen Passat and Peugeot 406.

The new nose has given the Xantia more personality, while at the same time bringing it into line with the recently-introduced Xsara. The new bonnet, front wings, bumper and grille also hide the wider front track from the Activa which has injected new life into the car's dynamics. The changes are the latest in a string of improvements that have given the Xantia a reputation for value. But Citroen's mainstay in the crucial fleet sector has dated quickly with stiff competition, and with no new Xantia in sight for the foreseeable future it has its work cut out to compete. Tested here is the volume-selling SX 1.8i five-door, with an on the road price of ú15,710.