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| Road Test: Rover 25 (2000-2005) |
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| Superminis |
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| DRIVING RATING: |
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The 25's steering is direct and obedient, but you don't have as commanding a view of the road - or all round - as in more modern, higher-riding superminis. The switchgear and controls are fiddly and awkward, and it's difficult for taller drivers to get comfortable, even in the higher-spec versions with the multi-adjustable seats. The ergonomics just aren't quite right, not helped by offset pedals, a stiff manual gearbox and a lack of elbowroom. Add to that bad brake-fade on long journeys, and you get poor overall user-friendliness. The 25 can actually be quite amusing, thanks to its light weight, low roofline and firm suspension; it corners with enthusiasm and is predictable and confidence-inspiring. The steering is not as light as that of many newer rivals, and it's a good old-fashioned hydraulic power-assisted set-up, so it gives a decent amount of feedback and weights up nicely as you chuck it about. It's not over-endowed with finesse, though, and even with the more powerful engines, it's no hot hatch. The sportier MG ZR versions (see separate road test) are a little better if you're after cheap thrills.
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Introduction The Rover 25, formerly known as the 200, was updated in 2000 but compa... |
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