Citroen Xsara Hatchback
  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Drive it into the ground, it will take it!

    Costs

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Fairly economical in its class, does not burn oil or use water and only needs servicing at 10k intervals if you do a high mileage.

  • On the road

    Driving

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Not the fastest, rolls a bit but does fine, quiet for a diesel and the air-con keeps you cool!

    Performance

    3 out of 5 3.0

    About what you'd expect for an older style turbo diesel.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Fantastic but see below comments on rear brakes.

    Image

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Who are you trying to impress? It's a workhorse! It carries huge amounts of wine back from France with no hassle.

    Comfort

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Odd, one of the most comfortable driving seats for someone like me with a long wide back, (me not the seat)!

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Who would want to nick it?

    Service

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Never bothered them much and they never bothered us!

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Sticky accelerator cable after 120K.

    Other

    The rear brakes need more servicing than it says in the schedule. They can lock up and sling the car sideways under emergency braking if you do not keep them tip-top. i.e.replace more than just shoes and drums.

    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