Rover 25 (1999 - 2005) 1.4 iL (103ps) 5d (2002/02) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Im 22 and used to drive a sensible car.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Some friends liked it and others didn't (mainly due to Rovers image) but it didn't bother me. My Dad and Stepfather liked driving the car, they were quite surprised with what it could do. My Mum loved the car so much, she bought off me when I got my Volvo.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes i definitely would, in the 2 years I drove it. It was pretty much faultless and only needed basic repairs. I.e back box, bearing gaiter etc I would buy one again because I know they are pretty decent cars, and the handling is brilliant on them.

What are you likely to buy next?

I already bought a replacement (which i shall review) A Volvo S60 with the very powerful 250bhp T5 engine!

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£900

When did you buy the car?

August 2013

Did you get a good deal and why?

Im not really sure as I've seen much cheaper R25's for sale. but i was given 6 months free tax (Before the new tax laws).

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

The only low mileage car out there in good condition and no major problems.

What was the dealer like?

He was a nice guy, but he was probably more interested in flogging the car quick and getting commission on it.

What's it like to drive?

The engine was very nippy in higher gears, it could easily get up to 60mph from 30mph in 5th gear, but it lacked torque which would have benefited in the first three gears. It handled beautifully, I couldn't fault it. Obviously the MG version would handle better, but the rover had sporty handling, but with good comfort levels too! The Hydraulic PAS felt quite heavy while driving, which was good because it made the steering real responsive and sharp.

What's it like to park?

Power steering made the car easy to park. It used to get in all the small spaces very well.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Heaters wouldn't work on speed 1 (common fault) never bothered to get it sorted as they were fine on speed 2,3 and 4. Back box rusted away as they do after a while and thats about it really.

What's most practical about your car?

Its got a nice sized boot for the size.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The sunroof was lovely to have, and the standard radio/cassette was a doddle to use. Unfortunately it was a mid-highish spec model without all the optional extras ticked.