Budget buys

£10,400 Budget Buying

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Craig Cheetham

May 2002

Budget cars are tempting buys new thanks to generous equipment, good prices and low-interest finance deals, but do they still make sense used? We compare them with the earlier mainstream rivals.
Kia Sportage GSX 2000 X The Sportage is a reasonable off-roader and an excellent car for towing, while it boasts a strong reliability record as well. What's more, thanks to the Korean marque's generous three-year warranty package, a 2000 example will have the balance of the manufacturer's policy still left to run, offering customers additional peace of mind and financial security.
Equipment levels in the cabin are generous, and potential buyers can expect air-conditioning and electric windows on higher specification models. Impressive boot space and a versatile cabin add to the Kia's appeal, while the seats and interior trim seem hard wearing.
Against Kia doesn't have a brilliant image and the road manners of the Sportage are less than impressive. It holds its value better than most models in the range, but don't expect a stampede of buyers when it comes to selling it.
Long distances can be draining, as the cabin lacks soundproofing and the suspension offers little refinement. The gearbox has felt reluctant to shift on some of our test models, while ratios are not best suited to the demands of Britain's roads. Safety kit is average for the class, but early examples only offer ABS on back wheels.
Land Rover Freelander 1.8i five-door 1998 R Nothing can come close to Land Rover's image, and the Freelander has made it even more accessible, with funky, chunky styling and excellent off-road ability.
The interior is a little cramped, but stylish nevertheless. Equipment levels are good, and there's a practical boot. On road refinement is pretty much without rival in this highly competitive market, and the Freelander proves as easy to drive as a normal family hatchback. Safety equipment is first rate, while all but the base model generously equipped. It's no surprise demand is so high and is likely to remain so, meaning the Land Rover will retain its value well.
Against Freelanders have a less-than-impressive reliability record (although it's the early examples which are affected most) and dealer repairs don't come cheap ί¿½ so make sure you get a proper inspection before you buy.
Some are forced to work for a living, and can look a little tatty after off-roading or towing, so research the car's history well. Soft-top versions have a fiddly roof system, while the 1.8-litre petrol-engined models feel underpowered. With its soft-touch fabrics, the Land Rover's interior can soon begin to look untidy.
Verdict Land Rover Freelander. Despite fears over reliability, there really is no choice between the Kia and the Land Rover. And although the Freelander's warranty will have expired, we still feel your money would be safer in Solihull's finest.