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This is the Maestro for the keen motorist who enjoys driving a powerful, responsive car but who, for family or business reasons, needs the spaciousness, comfort and versatility of a well-equipped hatchback.
Well-equipped the 1.6HLS certainly is, with all the luxury features mentioned on earlier pages, plus a five speed gearchange and - fittingly - a rev counter.
Like every other Maestro model, the 1.6HLS is fitted with smooth, precise rack and pinion steering and independant coil spring suspension.
To complement the car's wide track and relatively long wheelbase, MacPherson struts and an anti-roll bar are fitted at the front, torsion beam interconnected trailing arms at the rear. Maestro designers chose this classic combination - light in weight and simple to maintain - in their quest for a smooth and comfortable ride allied to excellent road-holding over all surfaces.
The Maestro 1.6HLS, with its highly developed and electronically managed 'R' Series engine, certainly has the power to take full advantage of the car's precise handling qualities. Maximum speed exceeds 100 mph and, to make the most of engine performance, a satin smooth 5-speed gearbox is fitted.
Safety at speed is assured by the Maestro's efficient brakes. A feature of every model in the range, this servo-assisted system comprises discs at the front, self-adjusting drum brakes at the rear. A diagonally split dual circuit layout ensures ample emergency braking performance in the unlikely event of a system failure. And continuous electronic monitoring, linked to the facia warning lights, gives the driver clear notice of brake failure or of the need to replace brake pads.
Lively performer that it is, the 1.6HLS retains the refreshing fuel economy and low running costs that are such hallmarks of the Maestro range. 53 mpg at a constant 56 mph promises satisfyingly low fuel bills. As for servicing costs, every Maestro has maintainance-free steering pivots and ball joints, electronic breakerless ignition and a sealed-for-life battery, helping to reduce servicing needs to once in every 12,000 miles.
Extensive undersealing and the use of wax injection techniques after the car has been painted have made it possible for Austin Rover to issue a 6-year Supershield corrosion warranty with every new Maestro. Apart from representing excellent long-term insurance (and, ultimately, a high re-sale price), this is enduring proof of the quality which is built into these miracle family cars.
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The Maestro
