Citroën Xsara Hatchback 1.4i Forte 5d (2000/X) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Great at £7995 (including £1000 cashback).
Costs
Only had to pay for servicing. Up to 44mpg on a good run.
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On the road
Driving
Sharp steering. Bodyroll not too bad. Not much rear view for parking.
Performance
1.4 8-valve needed replacing with 16 valve unit. 75bhp not breathtaking. Fine on motorways, though.
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Living with it
Reliability
Apart from faulty front brakes (needed new discs and pads in first year), no other problems.
Image
Reflection looks great when driving past shop windows. Not as dull as driving the same as everyone else. How many times have Ford Focus or VW Golf drivers tried to get in the wrong car in the supermarket car park?
Comfort
I'm 6' 2" and need my seat quite far back, but there's still room behind for someone to sit comfortably. Rake and reach steering is a plus.
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Security and Service
Security
No problems in 3 years. Xsara not seen as good target for break-ins, which suits me fine.
Service
Always very busy (not sure if that's a good or bad thing).
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Underpowered, but willing. Good for 105mph which is more than adequate.
Other
Crappy interior trim. Rattles too much for my liking. 6-speaker CD system solves that problem though.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
New
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes