Renault 19 Hatchback 1989-
  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    I paid well over the odds for mine, but at book value offers amazing value for money.

    Costs

    5 out of 5 5.0

    So economical, despite being driven flat out all the time. Never less than 47 MPG!!

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Surprisingly nippy and handles really well, but rolls due to soft suspension. Beats the hell out of an Astra or Escort!

    Performance

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Not quick, but surprisingly nippy for a non-turbo diesel, and sits on the motorway all day at 85 MPH.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What can I say… my full service history car has never given me any troubles despite 135,000 miles. Only problem was me losing the front to the stereo!

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Typical family hatchback, but looks a lot better than an Escort, Astra, Golf etc. With front fogs and other Biarritz toys, looks quite sporty.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Very good. Only niggle, perhaps the drivers seat could go back a bit further, but multi-adjustable seat and steering column make finding a good driving position surprisingly easy.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Not brilliant, but the fact that it is a Renault 19 diesel makes it thief proof! Remote central locking and factory immobiliser help ease the mind.

    Service

    5 out of 5 5.0

    The dealers were always polite, helpful, prompt and offered advice freely.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Minor oil leak, easily fixed using an additive.

    Other

    Totally reliable and free from faults. Surprised the hell out of me being as it is French!

    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