ROVER has an ace up in its sleeve in the launch of its new Rover 25 range of hatchbacks. The new car has greater presence than its 200 predecessor, with a deeper grille flanked by Rover 75-style headlamps.

Smoothly shaped front and rear bumpers, larger door mirrors, wider wheels and tyres are the external clues to an improved supermini. But the true progress is under the skin.

Younger buyers were always a prime target for the Rover 200, which was a nippy handling, sporty performer. The 25 is better.

Big changes to suspension and a meatier feel to the steering deliver a more stable, comfortable ride and make it more fun to drive.

And the standard three-year warranty which will apply to the 25 will also do it no harm. Prices released today confirm that the 25 starts at £8,295 for the entry model, the 1.1SE, when it goes on sale next spring.

The top-of-the-range version, the GTi, will cost £14,995 while the 1.4i will be £9,395.

Buyers will not be able to complain at lack of choice. The variety is bewildering with seven trim levels, including three sports packages, on offer, and up to six interior trim treatments. Then, there are 11 exterior paint colours, including four new to the range, and more than 20 individual options, five option packs and a range of approved accessories, including 17 new items.

A choice of seven engines is on offer, with the former 1.4-litre 75 horsepower model replaced by a 16-valve 1.4-litre unit delivering 84 horsepower.

Story date: Wednesday 10 November

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