• Summary

    3 out of 5 3.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Practical, unflashy, reliable.

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

    Family think its practical. Wife hates the emerald green colour and says you can't lose it in a car park even if you try.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    It is excellent at being what it is, an unsophisticated, unpretentious good value car that gets you around comfortably enough, but without exceptional performance. The newer models I am sure are more sophisticated in ride and fitment.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    I am going to buy a Volvo V70 for the extra space I need for my jobi.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £2,200

    When did you buy the car?

    September 2003

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    No discount was requested or offered. They offered free service for a year and a two year warranty..

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    My mother's wheelchair could fit in the boot.

    What was the dealer like?

    They were friendly and gave reassurance. The car was not expensive and no discount was requested or offered. They offered frees ervice for a year.

  • Driving it

    3 out of 5 3.0

    What's it like to drive?

    The Rio is easy to drive. It's not quick but is willing enough. Gear change is positive. The only niggle is that the indicators and wiper stalks are on the opposite side of other cars so we keep turning the wipers on when we want to turn!

    What's it like to park?

    Quite easy - no blind spots and you know where the corners are.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    The car has been reliable throughout its life. New tyres, a new battery and shock absorbers are the only costs apart from regular servicing. The radio has a volume control problem though.

    What's most practical about your car?

    It's a simple-to-use car with no bells and whistles. Good-sized boot and the seats fold down easily to increase the loadspace substantially.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Few gadgets on the car - that's one of its attractions.