• Summary

    3 out of 5 3.0

    What does this car say about you?

    It has a hip, young, cool image, is cheap to run but don't expect any extras.

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

    They like it. Let's face it, the cost of fuel is a constant worry but at least my parents know I'm not wasting my dollars at a petrol pump every 5 mins.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Mmm, possibly but unlikely. I might consider buying a second hand one next year but I fancy spending that little bit extra on a car with a bit more power. The brakes aren't great and I don't feel safe in it.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Really badgering my wife for a Mini, Focus or Golf (2001 onwards)

  • 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?

    Yes

    What price did you pay?

    £7,000

    When did you buy the car?

    May 2006

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Mmm, not really. Offered me £1,000 for my Citroen Saxo (S reg). No extras. Wouldn't even throw in any floor mats.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    It was advertised as a cheap, little car, excellent mpg.

    What was the dealer like?

    Not bad. Toyota offer a good after sales service but the sales rep didn't fill me full of confidence when buying the car.

  • Driving it

    3 out of 5 3.0

    What's it like to drive?

    It's great around town. At high speed, it's fine but very noisy. It's accelerates well from standing. The variable valve timings and quiet engine mean you sometimes you forget you're sitting in traffic with the engine running!

    What's it like to park?

    Great. My wife finds it a doddle and visability is good.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    The seals around the door arches went during a bout of very wet weather, causing the seats and carpet to get wet. Toyota replaced these. The brakes squeaked and had them changed at non-dealer garage. That was 6 months ago, and they still squeak. They also judder when the car is coming to a stop.

    What's most practical about your car?

    The mpg is very good and the tax is cheap (at £35 per annum, you can't grumble). It's great at parking in small spaces and although noisy on the motorway, it definitely holds its own.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    The boot! Although it's very small, it's just enough to carry my bucket & equipment neat and tidy (i'm a window cleaner!)