SECOND-HAND, the Citroen Xsara makes a great bargain since new prices have been so low for so long.
And it's a good car to drive, with the superb ride of all Citroens, allied to high levels of grip and tenacious roadholding.
Engines range from a 1.4 with 75bhp through a 1.6 with 90 to a 1.8 with 112 and the range topping two-litre 16 valve VTS with 167!
There are also turbo and non-turbo 1.9 diesels, with 68, 90 or 110bhp, which all offer effortless economy of well over 40 miles per gallon.
The 110 model also has performance enough to beat the band, with massive overtaking ability.
All engines bar the two-litre are available in both five door hatch or estate bodies and there are also three door sporting models with either 1.6, 1.8 or two-litre units.
Xsaras are practical, with 60/40 split, fold-flat rear seats, good interior space and legroom and five doors on most.
FAST FACTS
Citroen Xsara 1.9 HDI 110 5dr
Price: £3,000 should get an '01 Y-reg LX, and an '02 02-reg SX should be £4,000.
Mechanical: 110bhp, 1,998cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox.
Max speed: 121mph
0-62mph: 10 secs
Combined mpg: 47
Insurance group: 9
CO2 emissions: Not known.
BiK rating: N/A
Interior
Xsaras are easy to drive with light controls, excellent brakes and standard power steering and they also handle very well, with little roll and excellent balance.
The boot is probably the biggest in class with the seats up, thanks to its low flat floor, lack of suspension intrusions and excellent width.
Marks out of 10: 8
Main Rival: Peugeot 306/307