ROVER Cars: Complete Guide, Models & Reliability (2025)

Rover, a name synonymous with British automotive heritage, has produced a total of 1,623 vehicles. The brand is particularly known for its popular models, with the Rover 75 leading the pack at 483 units, followed closely by the Rover 25 with 417 units.

Last updated September 07, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

Introduction and Brand Overview

Rover, a name synonymous with British automotive heritage, has produced a total of 1,623 vehicles. The brand is particularly known for its popular models, with the Rover 75 leading the pack at 483 units, followed closely by the Rover 25 with 417 units. Other notable models include the Rover 45 and the iconic MINI, which collectively contribute to the brand's legacy.

In terms of fuel type distribution, Rover vehicles predominantly run on petrol, with 920 petrol vehicles and 331 classified as PETROL, alongside 342 diesel vehicles and 26 classified as DIESEL. A small number of vehicles also utilise LPG, highlighting the brand's diverse fuel options.

The age distribution of Rover vehicles reveals a significant presence of older models, with the majority registered between 1992 and 2005. Notably, 350 vehicles were registered in 2002, while the numbers taper off for more recent years, with only one vehicle registered in 2007. This data indicates a strong historical presence in the market.

Rover vehicles have undergone a total of 16,603 MOT tests, with an average pass rate of 74.1%. Common failures during these tests include issues with brakes (2,033 failures), lighting (1,990 failures), and tyres (1,025 failures), which are critical areas for potential buyers to consider.

All data presented is based on available statistics and may be subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is advisable to consult official sources or databases.

Popular ROVER Models

ROVER has a rich history in the UK automotive market, with a total of 1,623 vehicles registered. Among these, the ROVER 75 stands out as the most popular model, accounting for 483 registrations. This model is well-regarded for its comfort and style, making it a favourite among drivers.

Following closely is the ROVER 25, with 417 registrations. This compact car is known for its practicality and efficiency, appealing to a wide range of consumers. The ROVER 45, with 189 registrations, also remains a notable choice, offering a balance of performance and comfort.

Interestingly, there is a significant number of vehicles (368) that do not have a specified model name, which may include various older or less common ROVER models. Additionally, the iconic MINI, which is often associated with ROVER, has 33 registrations, showcasing its enduring popularity.

In terms of fuel type distribution, petrol vehicles dominate the ROVER lineup, with 920 petrol and 331 PETROL registrations combined. Diesel vehicles account for 342 registrations, while LPG vehicles are quite rare, with only 3 registered. This indicates a strong preference for petrol engines among ROVER owners.

When examining the age of ROVER vehicles, the majority are from the early 2000s, with 350 vehicles registered in 2002 and 326 in 2003. This suggests that many ROVER models are still on the road, reflecting their durability and appeal.

Despite their popularity, ROVER vehicles have an average MOT pass rate of 74.1%. Common failures during MOT tests include issues with brakes (2,033 failures) and lighting (1,990 failures), highlighting areas where owners may need to focus on maintenance.

Data accuracy is subject to change, and the statistics provided are based on the latest available information.

MOT Reliability and Common Issues

The Rover brand, with a total of 1,623 vehicles registered, has a mixed record when it comes to MOT reliability. The average pass rate for MOT tests across all Rover vehicles stands at 74.1%, indicating that a significant proportion of these vehicles may face issues during their inspections.

Among the top models, the Rover 75 leads with 483 registrations, followed closely by the Rover 25 with 417. Other notable models include the Rover 45 and the MINI, which have 189 and 33 registrations, respectively. The age distribution of these vehicles shows a concentration of older models, with the majority registered between 1998 and 2005.

Common failures during MOT tests for Rover vehicles are predominantly related to brakes, lighting, and tyres. Specifically, brakes account for 2,033 failures, while lighting issues contribute to 1,990 failures. Tyres are also a significant concern, with 1,025 failures recorded. Suspension problems, which can affect vehicle handling and safety, have been noted in 861 cases.

In addition to these common issues, the category labelled as 'Other' has 1,938 failures, which may encompass a range of problems not specifically detailed. This highlights the importance of regular maintenance and pre-MOT checks to address potential issues before the test.

It is essential for Rover owners to be aware of these common issues and the overall reliability of their vehicles. Regular servicing and attention to the vehicle's condition can help improve the chances of passing the MOT. However, data accuracy may vary, and it is advisable to consult with a professional for specific concerns.

Ownership Costs and Tax Information

When considering ownership costs for a Rover vehicle, it is essential to evaluate various factors, including fuel type, maintenance, and tax obligations. With a total of 1,623 Rover vehicles registered, the most popular models include the Rover 75 (483 units), Rover 25 (417 units), and Rover 45 (189 units). The distribution of fuel types among these vehicles shows a predominance of petrol engines, with 920 petrol vehicles compared to 342 diesel vehicles.

In terms of age, the majority of Rover vehicles on the road are from the early 2000s, with 350 registered in 2002 and 326 in 2003. This age distribution can impact insurance premiums and maintenance costs, as older vehicles may require more frequent repairs. The average MOT pass rate for Rover vehicles stands at 74.1%, indicating that a significant number of vehicles may require attention to meet safety standards.

Common failures during MOT tests for Rover vehicles include issues with brakes (2,033 failures), lighting (1,990 failures), and tyres (1,025 failures). These statistics highlight the importance of regular maintenance to avoid costly repairs and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Tax obligations for Rover owners will vary based on the vehicle's age, fuel type, and emissions. It is advisable for potential buyers to check the specific tax band for their chosen model, as this can significantly affect overall ownership costs.

In summary, owning a Rover vehicle involves various costs, including fuel, maintenance, and tax. Understanding these factors can help prospective owners make informed decisions. Please note that the data provided is based on current registrations and may be subject to change.

Buying Guide and What to Check

Buying Guide and What to Check

When considering a purchase of a Rover vehicle, it is essential to conduct thorough research and inspections. With a total of 1,623 Rover vehicles available, understanding the model distribution can help you make an informed choice. The top models include the Rover 75 (483 units), Rover 25 (417 units), and Rover 45 (189 units). Additionally, the iconic MINI is also part of the Rover lineage, with 33 units available.

Fuel type is another critical factor. The majority of Rover vehicles are petrol-powered, with 920 petrol and 331 PETROL vehicles recorded. Diesel options are less common, with 342 diesel and 26 DIESEL vehicles available. LPG options are minimal, with only three units. Knowing your fuel preference can significantly impact your running costs and environmental considerations.

Year distribution shows a wide range of models, with the oldest dating back to 1988. The most common years for Rover vehicles are 2002 (350 units), 2003 (326 units), and 2004 (240 units). This variety allows buyers to choose between newer models and classic options.

When inspecting a potential purchase, pay attention to the common failures reported in MOT tests. The average pass rate for Rovers is 74.1%, indicating that some vehicles may require attention. Common failure categories include brakes (2,033 failures), lighting (1,990 failures), and tyres (1,025 failures). Ensure that these areas are thoroughly checked before finalising your purchase.

Lastly, always verify the vehicle's history and condition. With a total of 16,603 MOT tests conducted, understanding the vehicle's past performance can provide valuable insights. Remember, data accuracy may vary, so it is advisable to consult multiple sources and conduct a personal inspection.

Related Information and Resources

Related Information and Resources

For those interested in the ROVER brand, a total of 1,623 vehicles are currently registered in the UK. The most popular models include the ROVER 75 with 483 units, followed closely by the ROVER 25 at 417 units. Other notable models include the ROVER 45 and the MINI, with 189 and 33 units respectively.

In terms of fuel type distribution, petrol vehicles dominate the market with 920 registered units, while diesel vehicles account for 342 units. Additionally, there are 331 petrol vehicles and 26 diesel vehicles listed in uppercase, along with 3 LPG vehicles.

The age distribution of ROVER vehicles shows a significant number of older models still on the road. The year 2002 has the highest count with 350 vehicles, followed by 2003 with 326 vehicles. The latest registrations indicate a diverse range of years, with models dating back to 1988.

When it comes to MOT performance, ROVER vehicles have an average pass rate of 74.1%. Common failures during MOT tests include brakes (2,033 failures), lighting (1,990 failures), and tyres (1,025 failures). These statistics highlight areas where owners may need to focus their maintenance efforts.

In total, there have been 16,603 MOT tests conducted on ROVER vehicles, providing a comprehensive overview of their performance and reliability. The majority of these vehicles are located in Great Britain, reflecting the brand's presence in the UK automotive market.

Please note that the data presented here is subject to change and should be verified for accuracy before making any decisions based on it.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of thousands of ROVER vehicles in our database, including MOT test results, registration data, and reliability statistics.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.

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