Public Servant Lifestyle

Lifestyle Motors' occasional vechile reviewer Steve Mallinson test drives the Rover 45 Hatchback 1.6i L 16v 5dr and comes away a little less than impressed.

"Despite its good looks, I found the 45 disappointing. Handling was at best average and ride quality, although an improvement over its predecessor, the 400, still fell short of what has become the norm for a car of its class. Seating is of a good standard but it wasn’t easy to find a comfortable driving position because the steering wheel only adjusts for height. Once underway, the 1.6 engine is willing enough, with road and engine noise kept to a pleasantly low level, except when under hard acceleration. Good ergonomic layout of controls and easy to read dashboard display made a pleasant change in an otherwise drab driving environment.

Equipment & Interior

"Safety equipment is good, with driver, passenger and side airbags coming as standard across the range and ABS on the test car. Overall, the interior seemed to be fairly insubstantial with apparently small regard having been given to longevity, leading one to surmise that its 2/3 years on appearance would do little to bolster residual values.

"Nice touches are the single CD player, air conditioning and alloy wheels. No points at all for failure to fit deadlocks leading to real concerns regarding security. 60-40 folding rear seats give a good load capacity but rear passengers will find themselves cramped even under normal conditions.

Value For Money

"Sad to say, the 45 scores badly here as well. Nowadays, the norm is for three year warranties and yet the 45 offers a measly 12 months, albeit unlimited mileage. This alone does not inspire confidence and when added to the doubts over the cars interior, it’s no surprise that residuals are poor. Vauxhall would do well to go back to the drawing board with this one.

Key Features

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