• Summary

    3 out of 5 3.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Well it's a different choice, it's practical cheap to run reliable but still fairly nippy. It does have a touch of sportyness and good looks.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    They like it when you show them the equipment, clever rear seats and glass roof.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    I would not buy another one there is a feel of vulnerability in a small car like this with light doors and small crumple zones.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    I would like a diesel Volvo S60 next but who knows.

  • Buying experience

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Didn't buy from a dealer

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £1,500

    When did you buy the car?

    January 2008

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Writen off Mercedes c180.

    What was the dealer like?

  • Driving it

    3 out of 5 3.0

    What's it like to drive?

    The engine is good but like most japanese engines lack a bit of torque and prefer to rev once it gets up the revs it really feels good. The gearbox is fine. Nippy round town and not out of its depth on faster roads noisy though at speed. the brakes are up to the job Abs is not the best but again up to the job. The main issue is the combination of small wheels, tall body,low weight and poor suspension. The small wheels have very little drive grip when wet or turning while accelerating junctions Etc. The problem with light cars is making the suspension work they tend to fit cheap shocks etc and the car tends to rise and fall over bumps instead of the shocks soaking up bumps and keeping the car level. The yrv manages to have a soft set up with body roll on corners but a really uncomfy ride.

    What's it like to park?

    Very easy to park lots of glass electric mirrors light power steering and a flat rear.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Exhaust snapped in half just before the silencer (new system fitted). Brake disks rust badly (replaced).

    What's most practical about your car?

    The rear seats come out and fold down to make a flat load area that allows decent moving ability for a small car.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Mine has the glass roof that does not open but has a sliding cover so you can get plenty of sun. Also A/C electric mirrors, windows(all), ABS and remote C/L