• Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    I am an individual and won't drive a boxy MPV (maybe an S-max if I can afford it one day).

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

    Mum loves it, partner loves it, neighbour keeps dinging it with his door, so I guess he is either stupid or jealous.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes. It feels like a Volkswagen - solid and reliable. This is the first car that has never let me down, and I love it more now than I first did.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Unsure. Would love a Ford Kuga or S-Max.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchise

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £8,500

    When did you buy the car?

    August 2008

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Yes, as the car was an ex-demonstrator, and it had a few extras. I got a good part exchange on my Seat Leon too.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    More space needed for baby stuff.

    What was the dealer like?

    Very helpful, in fact they have improved considerably over the six or so years I have been going to them.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Wonderful: composed, great cornering, tight and well weighted steering, great gearbox. The 1.6 engine is a little underpowered, but I use premium unleaded which has improved power and economy.

    What's it like to park?

    Dreadful - too many blind spots, especially the thick c-pillar. Standard parking sensors would have helped, but you do get used to it. I have employed a flag man to walk behind my car.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    An airbag warning light; the dealer finally sorted it after three goes, but were very helpful. Rear demister went, and they replaced the whole screen under warranty. The courtesy light cluster went, also replaced under warranty.

    What's most practical about your car?

    The massive boot - it swallows everything I need it to, plus the removable floor and folding seats enabled me to put a six foot dining table in it!

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    The air recycle button. When behind a fumey bus, one press sorts it out. My partners Renault has air recycle, but you have to twist a dial - much less convenient.