Citroen Xsara Hatchback
  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Horrendous depreciation from new makes it a superb nearly-new or second-hand purchase.

    Costs

    5 out of 5 5.0

    I have just sold this car (to buy another Xsara) and a detailed calculation (20 months & 25 000 miles) = total running costs of 19 ppm incl. depreciation, fuel, servicing, tax and insurance!

  • On the road

    Driving

    5 out of 5 5.0

    I had a new Saab 9-3 TiD and a Renault Laguna DTi on demonstration and both felt sluggish and heavy compared to the Xsara!

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Very good all round.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    With the exception of warped front door window seals that cost about £50 to replace it has been perfect!

    Image

    2 out of 5 2.0

    So good as an all-rounder that it is a bit non descript as a hatchback, that's why I've just put a deposit on a nearly-new Xsara Coupe!

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    The lack of lumber support was the only minor niggle.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    4 out of 5 4.0

    No problems.

    Service

    1 out of 5 1.0

    The local main dealer was as much use as a chocolate fireguard, but a local independent garage with staff trained by Citroen was superb, and half the price!

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Other

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes