Rover 25 (1999 - 2005) 1.4 Impression 3d (2001/Y) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
I'm a foolish Australian who bought an overpriced problem car made by a manufacturer that's out of business?
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
"Get rid of it now" is the most common theme.
Would you buy this car again and why?
No. Sadly I have no feeling of confidence in this car.
What are you likely to buy next?
Vauxhall Corsa, VW Golf or Skoda Fabia.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£1,100
When did you buy the car?
January 2011
Did you get a good deal and why?
Not a good deal. Insured/market value is just over half what I paid for it and it now needs a lot of work.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Low mileage for age, smart looks, sheer desperation (very hasty purchase).
What was the dealer like?
Friendly and there was no pressure, not sure about honesty and I wasn't impressed that they sold it to me with a new MOT and service but wouldn't provide paperwork for the service. Didn't tell me I'd be the car's 11th owner in 10 years.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Adequate - not very zippy, decidedly sluggish with a load. Handles OK. Suspension not great, feel every bump and dip. Very much out of its comfort zone on the motorway.
What's it like to park?
Not bad, but a bit prone to stalling.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Slips out of gear when engine braking in 1st gear. Coolant levels v low despite allegedly having had head gasket replaced at 40000m. Makes funny smells after driving for an hour, or sooner in heavy traffic. Surprisingly expensive to tax & insure for a low-spec small car. Needs clutch, brakes, hand brake, CV boot and exhaust repaired or replaced - probably more a reflection of its age and uncertain historythan the car itself, but I'm not willing to pay! Generally feels like it's about to fall to pieces.
What's most practical about your car?
Easy to park, OK boot space, not a target for thieves!
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Nothing stands out. Some of it still works but on the whole the interior and accessories are pretty cheap (despite the posh faux walnut details).
