A practical and affordable hatchback, the Rover 25 is best known for providing a relaxed drive at a great price point.
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Overall rating 4/5
Running costs
Comfort
Reliability
Space Practicality
It offers a spacious interior with a compact, city-friendly footprint – ideal for everyday journeys and for those who want stress-free ownership. The Rover 25 was designed as a small family hatchback and built with a focus on comfort and affordability. Popular with drivers looking for straightforward motoring and a traditional British badge, it quietly gets the job done with good basic equipment, light controls, and easy handling. Compared to rivals like the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa, it offers similar comfort and space but a more traditional feel. It is inexpensive to buy, making it accessible to budget-minded drivers, though its safety specs are outdated compared to newer designs.
Comfortable, relaxing ride Surprisingly spacious interior Affordable running costs
Dated safety technology Potential rust and head gasket issues Harder to find replacement partsSafety on the Rover 25 focuses mainly on basics: driver and passenger airbags, side impact protection, and anti-lock brakes (on higher-spec models). However, keep in mind the 25 doesn't match the safety levels of more modern hatchbacks – something to remember if safety is your top concern.
The Rover 25 was mainly offered with 1.4, 1.6 and 1.8-litre petrol engines, plus a 2.0-litre diesel. The 1.4 petrol is the most common and typically well-suited to town use, while the diesels offer extra torque for longer journeys. All are naturally aspirated and favour low running costs over performance.
Technology is simple and practical. Most models include a radio/CD player or cassette, electric front windows and central locking. Higher specifications might add air conditioning and alloy wheels, but don’t expect modern connectivity or infotainment systems – this is a car built with traditional motoring needs in mind.
The fuel economy of the Rover 25 varies by engine and gearbox. On average, petrol versions return around 36–42mpg, whilst diesels can achieve up to 50mpg on longer runs. It’s cost-effective to run for its size and age, with low insurance group ratings as well.
Look out for common issues such as head gasket failure (especially on petrol models), signs of corrosion and worn suspension. Ensure the cooling system is healthy. As spares can be less available, a full history is especially useful. For extra peace of mind, consider using The AA Vehicle Inspection service.
With regular maintenance, Rover 25s can prove reliable, but owners often report common age-related issues – particularly with the engine cooling system and bodywork rust. Spare parts availability can also be a challenge. A cherished example, though, can be a dependable and low-cost companion for everyday journeys.
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