1997 Citroen Xsara LX review from Malta

Petrol pump.

One rear shock absorber because of the poor roads.

Great looks, great car.

The suspension's hard and not soft as many say.

Body roll is very limited.

But potholes and poor roads felt harsh into the cabin because the suspension is stiff, but the pay off is great handling.

The ride is impecably stable and the handling is superb. The power assisted steering has plenty of feel and is much better than a new: Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra, Renault Megane, Citroen C4, or Peugeot 307.

The handling is superb; this is my father's car, I have the new Renault Megane; while the ride is more smooth than the Xsara, the handling is no match. It's not about grip, it's about the steering, where the Xsara is still one of the best in terms of road holding because there is no electric power steering that dulls the drive.

Great reliability, no problems in 9 years, just only wear and tear.

Build quality is avarage in some areas and better in other areas. So after 9 years, there are some rattles in the cabin, but soon they will be solved.

There is plenty of space front and rear, and the head room is good in both.

Seats are soft and could be better, but they're comfortable.

Dashbord is stylish and rattle free, and the radio cassette is superb and reliable. No faults.