Overall Rating |  |
Xsara is a competent older family range that's a cheap used buy. It's spacious and practical enough but can't compete equally with Focus or 307 for refinement or overall integrity.
For
- Low used prices for its size and equipment
- Refined ride and responsive handling
- Cabin is roomy enough for five plus luggage
Against
- Not a popular small family choice
- Interior looks dull and rather cut-price
- Serious depreciation if bought new
Road Test
Second generation Xsara is only slightly more interesting visually than the dull original range. It's roomy; hatchbacks have good luggage space and estates are useful load-luggers. The cabin lacks the appeal of Focus or 307, with materials that feel as if they might not resist age and wear as well.
Depreciation is steep, even allowing for discounted new prices. So buy Xsara after a year or two, when it undercuts Focus and Astra by a big margin. Citroen loaded the cars with equipment to stimulate sales. Only L versions lack air con; all have central locking and electric windows.
The elderly 1.4i gets thrashy when pressed hard. Go for the 1.6 16v instead. The old 1.9D is sluggish but the economical 2.0 HDi pulls very eagerly, especially in 110 bhp form.
Xsara redeems itself with a refined ride and responsive handling, especially if you pick a 2.0i 16v coupe model.
Need To Know
JD Power stars: 2
NCAP: 3
Best Models: 2.0 HDI 90 LX
Worst Models: Hot 2.0 VTS coupé
Replacement: 2004
Alternatives
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Star Ratings
Handling  Comfort Quality & Reliability Performance Roominess Running Costs Value for Money Stereo/Sat Nav  |
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