Rover 45 2.0 TURBODIESEL RANGE
Even Petrol People Might Like Rovers Latest Turbo Diesel 45, Thinks Jonathan Crouch
Rover says it has been pleasantly surprised by the reaction to its 45 range, particularly from the corporate sector. These users seem to particularly like the 2.0-litre turbodiesel models, the cars tested here. Theyll probably like them even more now as well, thanks to the latest round of changes.
In the past, some of the 45 ranges most significant under-bonnet alterations have been reserved for this 2.0-litre turbo diesel unit meaning its good enough to enjoy a much wider appeal. This engine features a high pressure injection system that does little for the optional 101Ps and 113Ps power outputs but much for the crucial torque curve, giving extraordinary pulling power through the gears. Even in high gears at low speeds, acceleration is instant, a match in fact even for the 2.
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5-litre V6 used in the 75. A diesel, in other words, to convince even die-hard petrol buyers or at least that's the idea. The frugality then (both derivatives achieve over 50mpg on the combined cycle) should come as a bonus. This engine is, of course, on offer with both power outputs right across the latest four and five-door 45 line-up, at prices ranging between £12,995 and £16,195. The 45 is of course the rejuvenated version of the original 400 series but it might as well be a completely new model in terms of its change of image.
Rover hopes that todays more modern nose and a host of detail improvements will lift the car clear of more mundane family hatchbacks and small saloons: they could even be right. Although the latest 45 does look a good deal more post millennial than previous iterations, the basic shape can be traced back a good few years. Its nevertheless a handsome looking thing, the deeper front grille and twin lens headlamps looking distinctly
BMW in their styling influences. Integrated indicators and a new front bumper design give the 45 a more dynamic look.
The rear end is, if anything, even more radical with an angular rear bumper entailing a repositioned number plate and a big, bold boot/tailback treatment. A rear lip spoiler and classy chromed Rover lettering across the cars posterior are also featured. Other exterior changes include side sill extensions and body coloured side rubbing strips. The interior was always the part which dated the 45 most appreciably and it too has come in for a rethink.
Its nothing too radical and if you get in anticipating the cabin to be as funky as a
Honda Civic or
Vauxhall Astra you may need your expectations managed. The fascia has been updated with four circular air vents finished in chrome and contrasting wood fillets inserted into the dashboard. Theres burr walnut for Rover traditionalists and for something a little more avant-garde there are light and dark oak finishes.
"The economy comes as a bonus..."
A number of convenience features have also found their way into the 45. Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) is a very functional climate controlled air conditioning system that includes an outside temperature gauge and solar sensor compensation. Its possible to set the desired temperature in either Fahrenheit or Celsius and is fitted to GSi, Club SE and Connoisseur trims. Theres a remote activated boot release system thats operable via the key fob, revised interior switchgear and a cleverer windscreen wash/wipe system with a Dribble Wipe function that clears the windscreen four seconds after the initial wash/wipe, thus catching that annoying dribble from the top of the screen.
The remote locking now features a rolling code system that means that thieves will never be able to capture and subsequently use your transmitters frequency. Rover have also fitted a master locking switch in the 45s fascia that instantly locks all doors and doubles as a panic function. Hold the switch for over two seconds and the doors lock and the alarm siren and hazard lights are activated. Anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution are now fitted to every 45 and all modes bar the 1.
4-litre Classics feature the TrafficMaster traffic alert system to help you avoid congestion. Ultrasonic rear parking sensors also make the team sheet. There's a confidence about the product too, highlighted by a 3-year warranty and long 15,000-mile service intervals on most models. It drives with an air of authority too. Rover reckons the entire 45 range provides a sharper drive than the sportiest of the old 400s. This is quite a claim, particularly when you bear in mind that the engine line-up is virtually unchanged.
Still, uprated springs and dampers, revised chassis settings and a power steering rack with faster gearing all give grounds for optimism. Not that Rover buyers tend to have sporting priorities. For them, what goes on under the bonnet will be of limited interest. Instead, the emphasis will need to be on quality and image, features not always readily on offer in this area of the market.
This is why the dashboard plastics are a grade above what you would normally expect for a car of this class. It's why there's wood trim in the cabin of even the cheapest models. It's why the interior trim has been styled with such care. There's a range of pretty alloy wheels too, plus a selection of fresh colours, with availability depending on your choice between mainstream trim levels that vary in diesel form from Club through GSi and Club SE to Connoisseur. A classy package then, which deserves a second chance from buyers who may have deserted this 45's predecessor. Compared to its mainstream rivals, this car serves up altogether more appealing fare, especially in diesel form. It may not be at the cutting edge of technology but it's the kind of family car you'd be proud to have on your driveway. At the end of the day, if you're spending your own money, that's surely what counts.
FACTS AT A GLANCE
CAR: Rover 45 2.0 turbo diesel range
PRICES: £12,995 - £16,195- on the road
INSURANCE GROUP: 7-11
CO2 EMISSIONS: 150g/km
PERFORMANCE: [113Ps] 0-60mph 9.8s / Max Speed 118mph
FUEL CONSUMPTION: [113Ps] (urban) 36.2mpg/ (extra urban) 65.7mpg / (combined) 50.5mpg
STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Drivers airbag
WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: [4dr] length/width/height 4517/1910/1395mm
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