CITROEN'S mid-size Xsara is now a great bargain and there are still quite a few out there with reasonable mileage and full history.
It is also a good car to drive, with a very comfortable ride plus excellent handling and roadholding.
Engines start with a 1.4 which has 75bhp and go up through a 1.6 with 110 to a 2.0-litre with either 137. The range topping 2.0-litre VTS has a stonking 167!
Non-turbo 1.9 diesels with 70bhp should be avoided because they are very slow and no more economical than the 90 or 110bhp 2.0-litre models which are both excellent.
The 110 has performance enough to beat the band, with massive overtaking ability and will still average 47mpg.
All engines are available in both five door hatch or estate bodies and there is also a three door coupe with most engine options.
Xsaras are practical, with 60/40 split, fold-flat rear seats, good interior space and very good legroom front and rear.
Interior
Xsaras are comfortable and refined, easy to drive and have excellent brakes and power steering.
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.
FAST FACTS
Citroen Xsara 1.9 HDI 110 5dr
Price: Pay about £2,000 for an '01 Y-reg LX 5dr, £2,900 for an '02 52-reg SX, or £3,700 for an '03 53-reg LX estate
Mechanical: 110bhp, 1,998cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via a 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 121mph
0-62mph: 10 secs
Combined mpg: 47
Insurance group: 9
Marks: 9/10
Main rival: Ford Focus