The Citroen Xsara is a compact family car manufactured since 1997. Like its predecessor, the Citroen ZX, the Xsara shares its platform with the Peugeot 306 model and was produced as a five-door hatchback or a five-door station wagon. In 2000, the Xsara was upgraded - the car became more rigid (thus improving safety and handling), receiving a new front design with larger headlights and some interior changes (such as a new steering wheel). The Xsara can offer a comfortable, smooth ride, good handling, but has largely competed with class leaders Ford Focus and VW Golf thanks to lower prices. Buyers didn't really like the old-fashioned design of the Xsara, so in 2004 the elegant C4 model was replaced. It is necessary to mention the unique success of Xsara in the WRC (World Rally Car). This model (which has little in common with the standard other than a similar exterior) has become one of the most successful cars in WRC history. Citroen, with the phenomenal Frenchman Sebastien Loeb at the forefront, won three driving championship titles from 2004 to 2006 and three manufacturer champion titles in 2003, 2004, and 2005. The success of the WRC was taken over by Xsara’s successor, the C4 model.