• Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    That I'm inscrutable ....

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

    Who cares? I like it, my husband liked it so much he bought a WRX and it's a fabulous car.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    No. Don't get me wrong, this car is the best I've ever had (and I've had a few!). But, the car tax is now horrendous and at 250 miles/tank of SUPER unleaded petrol costs are beyond what I can afford these days.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    I'm thinking of a mini cooper s (auto) - 0-60 is similar but the other costs are significantly less. I'll just have to skid more ...

  • Buying experience

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchise

    Did you buy this car new?

    Yes

    What price did you pay?

    £18,000

    When did you buy the car?

    March 2004

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    I got a great deal! Working in the car trade helped a lot, I bought an ex-dem instead of new (which always saves money) and only focussed on comparing price (not colour or added extras).

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    I needed a larger car due to increased mileage and travel on motorways.

    What was the dealer like?

    Great - really nice family run dealership over near Northampton.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Great. Powerful, fast, great acceleration - and even better with the 'power' button on.

    What's it like to park?

    Umm .... don't look at my bumpers :-)

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Nope! The only thing has been that she hasn't started twice in the last year (!) - but according to the mechanic, this is because she was started up, moved a few feet and then turned off again. So she sulked (OK there's a more technical explanation but hey!).

    What's most practical about your car?

    4x4 capability without doubt - we live in the back end of nowhere in the Chilterns and 4x4 is a must-have.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Heated wing mirrors. And yes, the 'toasty bottom warmers' are great when it's -5.