Rover 400 Hatchback 420 GSi 5d (1996/N) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Economy
Value
If you buy a GSI you get a lot for your money:Cruise control, 6 CD/speaker audio, leather, alloys, ABS, all electrics, fog lamps, some versions come with A/C. Rover parts are not as cheap as you would expect of a UK built car!
Costs
Not bad on a run. Quoted at 50 MPG on the open road, you could probably get 40 MPG if you're sensible & engine is in good nick (use good plugs, oil etc.). Generally 60 MPH at 3000 RPM will give you good return on your petrol. Insurance is not bad.
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On the road
Driving
Steering fairly positive, a little light at high speeds - but not too bad. Suspension is relatively stiff, allowing for good cornering. Not too bad on country roads.
Performance
Solid, plenty of power through 2nd & 3rd. Car did 120 MPH (on private track!) possible top end of 130. In short: enough power to get you by.
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Living with it
Reliability
A dependable car which starts first time nearly every time (with 70K on the clock). So far it hasn't let me down after a 14 months of ownership.
Image
Not quite as pipe&slippers as some would assume. A relatively low profile car but it does have a certain amount of presence on the road. Not a poser's car but not a shrinking violet either.
Comfort
Stiff suspension therefore stiff ride but not uncomfortable. Leather seats are firm but good. No lumbar support which is stingy and a pain on long journeys. Engine/road noise can be high. Raucous once you are on the motorway and at >2000 RPM.
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Security and Service
Security
Internal movement detector, immobiliser etc.. A secure car by any standard. So far no problems.
Service
Nothing special but not bad either.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
A bit of rattle at times but otherwise no complaints.
Other
Stereo display has gone funny: sometimes parts of numbers disappear. Heater settings 1 & 2 (of 1-4) don't work.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes