Three of the Best – High-Rise Hatches
The soft-roader, or car that looks well ‘ard but is actually no more intimidating than your mate Dave who insists on wearing surplus army gear, is a popular thing now. It didn’t get much love in the past though, and when car companies tried to make their hatchbacks look a bit meaner, we laughed. But oh how the tides have turned. The ‘soft roader’ is here today, and it’s here to stay. But what graces the showrooms of today would be nothing without the brave experiments of the past. Three of which we have selected here. So, get your wellies on and choose your fighter…
1) Rover Streetwise (2003-2005)
Rover’s first and last attempt at an SUV was the Streetwise: a chunkier 25 aimed at a younger audience. But sadly it was too little too late for Rover, and not many people were Streetwise enough to buy one. But luckily you can now pick one up for as little as £500.
Pick of the range:
There are three engines to choose from: a 1.4 and 1.6 petrol, and a 2.0 diesel. But beggars can’t be choosers, so if you’re lucky enough to find a Streetwise on the classifieds all three engines will perform adequately to suit your needs.
What to look out for:
Being a Streetwise, it will no doubt have been zipping over speedhumps and kerbs for most of its life. So keep an eye out for body damage and rust. Otherwise, the 25 (upon which it’s based) has a proven reputation for reliability.
2) Volkswagen Polo Dune (2004-2008)
Is a regular Polo not your thing? Are you looking for a jacked up supermini but the Ford Fiesta Active X is just too expensive? Well look no further than the Volkswagen Polo Dune. Just don’t expect it to go bashing any dunes in the deserts though, as the Polo Dune is two-wheel drive only.
Pick of the range:
The 1.4 petrol offers the best balance of the bunch.
What to look out for:
Being a Polo, the Dune will certainly be a trusty steed for any incoming owner. However make sure proper maintenance has been carried out, as Polos are popular with new drivers who tend to be on a tight budget.
3) Fiat Panda 4×4 (2003-2009)
The Fiat Panda 4×4 is a wolf in sheep’s clothing when it comes to off-roading. Not only does it offer a genuine four-wheel drive system and impressive practicality, but also quirky Italian flair at discount prices.
Pick of the range:
At 18 seconds, the 1.3 diesel is 2 seconds faster to 60mph than the 1.2 petrol. So if speed is your thing, go for the diesel.
What to look out for:
Due to its surprising capability the 4×4 is prone to off road damage, so check for knocks and scrapes on the bodywork and underneath. Otherwise, the tried and tested Fiat engines will offer decent reliability.
