Rover 400 Hatchback 420 GSi 5d (1996/N) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Economy
Value
If you buy a GSI you get a lot for your money:Cruise control, 6 CD/speaker audio, leather, alloys, ABS, all electrics, fog lamps, some versions come with A/C. Rover parts are not as cheap as you would expect of a UK built car!
Costs
Not bad on a run. Quoted at 50 MPG on the open road, you could probably get 40 MPG if you're sensible & engine is in good nick (use good plugs, oil etc.). Generally 60 MPH at 3000 RPM will give you good return on your petrol. Insurance is not bad.
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On the road
Driving
Steering fairly positive, a little light at high speeds - but not too bad. Suspension is relatively stiff, allowing for good cornering. Not too bad on country roads.
Performance
Solid, plenty of power through 2nd & 3rd. Car did 120 MPH (on private track!) possible top end of 130. In short: enough power to get you by.
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Living with it
Reliability
A dependable car which starts first time, nearly every time (with 70K on the clock). So far it hasn't let me down after 14 months of ownership.
Image
Not quite as pipe&slippers as some would assume. A relatively low profile car, but it does have a certain amount of presence on the road. Not a poser's car, but not a shrinking violet either.
Comfort
Stiff suspension, therefore stiff ride but generally not uncomfortable. Leather seats are firm but good. No lumbar support which is stingy and a pain on long journeys. Engine/road noise can be high. Raucous once you are on the motorway and at >2000 RPM.
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Security and Service
Security
Internal movement detector, immobiliser etc.. A secure car by any standard. So far no problems.
Service
Nothing special but not bad either.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
A bit of rattle at times but otherwise no complaints.
Other
Stereo display has gone funny: sometimes parts of numbers disappear. Heater settings 1 & 2 (of 1-4) don't work.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes