| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| 400 is basically a Honda Civic with Rover engines and trim. It's reliable, relaxing, economical, well equipped, but too compact to compete with Mondeo, 406 or Passat as family wheels. |
| Handling |
 |
| Comfort |
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| Quality & Reliability |
|
| Performance |
|
| Roominess |
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| Running Costs |
|
| Value for Money |
|
| Stereo/Sat Nav |
 |
| NCAP |
| not tested (Honda Civic = 3 stars) |
| Best Models |
| 416 SLi, 416iXL, 420 GSi |
| Worst Models |
| Low spec 414i, 416i & 420D |
| Replacement |
| by Rover 45 in early 2000 |
|
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| Road Test |
| If you need a car that's undemanding, well built, reliable, easy on the eye and spoils you with a generous level of creature comforts, a 400 hatchback or saloon may fit the bill. But if you have strapping teenagers to ferry about or regularly take trips with four adult occupants, look elsewhere. The 400 hatchback is a full six inches shorter than rivals such as Mondeo, Laguna and Vectra - and most of the space comes out of the passenger cabin. The saloon is average size for its class, but rear accommodation is no more generous. Apart from that, 400 is a sound though unexciting choice. The willing K-Series engines suit the chassis and suspension, imparting driving pleasure and smooth open-road cruising. Safety features are adequate, the 416i manages nearly 40mpg, and there are long service intervals. Saloons have a slightly classier image than five-door models; they also handle better. |
| Positive Points |
- Well finished inside and out
- High marks for reliability
- Refined ride, responsive handling
|
| Negative Points |
- Rivals have more room in the rear
- Staid image; an elderly design
- High insurance
- even the 1.4 is Group 9
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