Rover 45 Saloon (2000 - 2004) 2.0 V6 Club 4d Step Auto Owner Review

What a pleasant surprise the Rover 45 V6 Club turned out to be. Straight out of the box, it presents a smart and understated look, though for those who find its styling a touch too mature, a few sporty upgrades borrowed from the MG ZS range can inject a bit of attitude. Admittedly, I didn't even know the 45 V6 existed until one popped up online for just £350. At that price, curiosity got the better of me—and I’m glad it did.

On the road, the drive is impressively composed. It strikes a fine balance between comfort and sporty handling, with responsive steering and excellent road holding. The V6 soundtrack is undeniably a highlight, delivering a satisfying growl. That said, the engine does feel somewhat underpowered, a shortcoming made more noticeable by the automatic gearbox, which isn't the quickest at finding the right gear.

There are compromises, of course. The fuel economy is predictably poor, and the Rover badge comes with its own baggage of reliability stigma. However, my experience so far has been problem-free, which is impressive given the bargain-basement price I paid. Still, buyers should be aware of the maintenance challenges, particularly the V6's complex timing belt setup—there are three belts to contend with, making DIY jobs tricky and professional servicing potentially costly.

Despite its quirks, the Rover 45 V6 Club has a charm that's hard to ignore. There's something refreshingly niche about a family saloon with a V6 engine under the bonnet. The manual override function on the automatic gearbox adds a layer of driver engagement when you want it, while still providing comfort and convenience for longer, more relaxed journeys.

For me, the real appeal lies in its rarity, its surprising agility, and that soulful engine note. It’s not a car for everyone, but for those who appreciate something different—and are willing to accept its eccentricities—it’s a hidden gem that deserves a second look.