Overall Rating |  |
As a driving machine ZS delivers, with good engines and sporty handling. Unfortunately it's an old design and the styling is not for everyone, although its value pricing help helps a little.
For
- Lively engines; 2.5 180 bhp model is very quick
- Sports suspension gives rewarding handling
- Good price-to-performance ratios
Against
- Based on Rover 400/45, an ageing design
- Less roomy than many rivals
- Firm ride and road noise reduce refinement
Road Test
You either love or loathe ZS's steroid-enhanced looks, but get past the big alloys and prominent spoilers and there's a genuinely sporty car. There are few electronic gadgets to tame its handling enthusiasts love that.
Performance is lively, especially from the 2.5-litre V6 engine. It's possible to behave badly and have fun in a ZS without things getting out of control.
Unfortunately, XS has neither the credibility nor the image needed to carry it off. Underneath there's the elderly Rover 400/45 chassis and body, and no amount of bolt-on extras and bright paint jobs can change the fact it started life as a frumpy four-door saloon.
The ZS's cabin is quite small, especially in the back. The dashboard has some sporty, bright detailing, but it still looks very dated. Overall the ZS does not feel very special. Resale values are poor, but that makes it cheap thrills when bought used.
Need To Know
JD Power stars: 3
Best Models: ZS 180 5-door
Worst Models: ZS 120 4-door
Replacement: 2005
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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