Rover 25 Review
If you're looking for a bargain, a used Rover 25 from The Car Shop Megastore could be just the ticket. Based on the old Rover 200, the revisions are a definite improvement. The 25 handles well – the ride, which can seem firm around town, smoothing out at speed.
Rover 25s are available with either 1.1, 1.4, 1.6 or 1.8 engines, all of which pull well for their size and offer reasonable economy. If you want something a bit more sporty the 148bhp 1.8 VVC is a fair hot hatch. The 2 litre turbodiesel feels rough and agricultural by comparison, although it can deliver around 50mpg.
Don't expect any surprises when you get inside – the cabin is bland but functional, with all the controls laid out logically and easy to use, except the fiddly stereo. The driving position isn’t the best in the world but there is reasonable space for passengers. If you expect to be carrying people in the back regularly it’s worth waiting for a five-door model, as access on the three-door is a challenge.
A Rover 25 doesn't exactly spoil you for standard equipment, so seek out the L or sportier S models for creature comforts such as air conditioning and anti-lock brakes. Safety kit is scarce on all models.