Rover 200 Series Reviews

• July 2008 Reviews
• October 2005 Reviews

Rover 200 review covering 1995 - 1999

Friday 28 October 2005

This was the car that should originally have replaced the Metro from the very start, before Rover had a re-think, deciding instead that it should move its range upmarket, starting with something sized halfway between a Fiesta and an Escort. Mechanically similar to the previous second-generation 200, and sharing some inner body panels, this replacement model was a smoothly styled hatchback, pitched more as a compact executive car than a superior supermini.The 200 was a great success for Rover, lifting its maker’s image and returning it to the top-10 best sellers lists, after the gradual decline of the Metro, or 100, as it was renamed.The main criticism of the 200 was always a somewhat cosy rear compartment. Rover felt that what was now their smallest model should be thought of more as a personal coupe (even the five-door versions?) than a compact family car, so if rear leg room matters less than a classy cabin and elegant styling, the 200 could well be for you.