Rover 25 (1999 - 2005) 1.6 iXL 5d (2003/52) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I like that it's a grown-up car which suits me just fine. I like my cars to be luxurious rather than outright sporty, too.

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

It's a sophisticated looking car and I've had compliments about the classiness of it. That probably comes down to the pretty bodywork, chrome highlights and metallic paint. Others love the leather interior even if some are unsure about the wood trim.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I would; in fact I have my eye on the face-lifted model which looks even sharper. I love how much car you get for your money and it's so much better looking than the Volkswagen Polos and Ford Fiestas of this world.

What are you likely to buy next?

Probably the updated 2004/2005 model year Rover 25. I quite fancy a diesel version, too, as that is also a gutsy performer and returns nearly 54 mpg, too.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£1,500

When did you buy the car?

August 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

The generous part-exchange offer for my old Vauxhall Corsa helped.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I wanted a good-looking compact car with lots of equipment and reasonable running costs. This fitted the bill perfectly.

What was the dealer like?

Friendly, laid-back and clearly passionate about cars.

What's it like to drive?

Surprisingly good. I wasn't expecting much from a Rover, but then I'd forgotten that Rovers were good enough cars to turn into sporty MGs! Mine handles really well, grips well and steers accurately. The engine's impressive. A bit noisy until it's warm, perhaps, but it's very zesty and returns 41.3 mpg, too. Pretty good for a car that can hit 60 mph in 9.3s.

What's it like to park?

Easy. Only small blind spots to the rear, but the mirrors are a good size. The car's an ideal size for town and country roads, too.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Two parts of the exhaust were damaged when I bought it but both were replaced for under £100. Battery also had to be replaced recently, but I don't blame the car for that!

What's most practical about your car?

It's spacious for a supermini and has a massive boot that's big enough for a weeks shopping. There are useful cubbyholes in the dash, too.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Air conditioning and electric sunroof. The former is useful all year round, the latter lets in lots of light (but has a blind if you need the shade).