The Rover 25, formerly known as the 200, was updated in 2000 and very mildly revised in 2004, but compared to more modern rivals it is feeling increasingly dated and outclassed. Since the 2000 revamp, Ford has launched a new Fiesta, Nissan a new Micra, Volkswagen a new Polo, Citroen the C2 and C3, Honda the Jazz and of course, there's also the MINI - all more fashionable, all boasting better-quality cabins and more advanced technological features, and most just as competitively priced. But the 25 still commands affection, not just amongst misty-eyed patriots nostalgic for the glory days of the British motor industry. It remains a lively drive - not least because it's neither as heavy nor as tall as newer rivals - and its handling is relatively sharp. In short, it drives the way superminis used to before they grew up, which is hardly surprising given that it's essentially a ten-year old design.

The current 25 range consists of three-door and five-door 1.1 (74 bhp), 1.4 16v (83 bhp or 103 bhp) and 1.6 (107 bhp) petrol models, plus the 2.0 D (100 bhp or 111 bhp) diesels. There's also the jacked-up, imitation 4x4 model, the Streetwise (see separate road test).

Production ceased when MG Rover entered administration and, because of residual value fears and because there's now no factory warranty, although dealers will offer aftermarket warranties, it is particularly difficult for us to recommend a 25 unless it comes very heavily discounted.