Rover believe that if you're going to spend even a short amount of time inside a car, the experience should be an enjoyable one. So the interior of the Rover 100 is a pleasure to look at as well as to travel in.

Bright, attractive fabrics are combined with all the thoughtful detail you'd expect, from the fascia mat to the full depth door trims. Even the most affordable models have a pleasant, tasteful interior. The Rover 100 Ascot and Ascot SE look considerably more expensive than they are; on the Ascot SE, you'll find traditional burr walnut veneer, and a sumptuous 'Oyster' colour carpet.

You can even specify leather trim as an extra cost option on the Rover 114GSi. What other small car could offer you such an elegant cabin?

If you were seated blindfold inside a Rover 100, the chances are that you'd still notice the difference between Rover's small car and others. The seats are just as comfortable as they are in the larger Rovers. They're well-shaped, with the proper amount of support, and heightadjustable front head restraints are fitted on all models. This is one small car that always feels big on comfort, even after a day long journey.

The Rover 100 is big in every other department too, apart from its compact, easy-to-park body. There's plenty of room for a week's family shopping or a set of golf clubs in the boot (the parcel shelf is removable). And a 60/40 split folding rear scat is fitted from SLi models upwards, giving extra versatility for the times when you want to carry three passengers and luggage; or two passengers and quite a bit more besides.

Perhaps the most pleasing aspect of all is the Rover 100's refinement. The K-Series engines are paragons of smoothness, in addition to being lively yet economical performers, Cruising quietly along the motorway, or nipping through city streets, you'll travel in restful calm and comfort. it's the kind of feeling you'd normally only expect in a considerably larger and more expensive car. But that's all part of the Rover 100's unusual value for money.

No smart alec remarks here. I think it DOES look good inside.