THE Xsara Coupe has been around in Australia since early 2001, when the Xsara five-door range received its mid-life facelift. The Coupe - somewhat misnamed because it comes as a hatchback actually - is available as the 1.6-litre VTR and the 2.0-litre VTS we have tested here. As the engine sizes suggest, the VTS is the more performance-oriented of the two as well as having more standard equipment. It is also the more expensive at $32,990, which makes it a direct competitor for fellow French flyers the Peugeot 206 GTi and the outstanding Renault Clio Sport. Although good fun to drive, the VTS does struggle in such exalted company.