• Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    That I have matured enough to be more concerned about economy than image. I imagine I would put "Funky" here, had I been 10 years younger.

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

    Friends and family like the interior space, we are all 6 footers. Even in the back it's fine. I haven't asked for the neighbours' opinions.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes. It's frugal and reliable, as well as comfortable and compact. Made me laugh when I read another of these reviews; someone said that for the money they could have got a second hand Jaguar. Completely different car bought for completely different reasons. If you want to throw money away for the sake of looking like wannabe nevue riche buy a second hand Jag. If you want a sensible city car able to handle 3 hour journeys in relative comfort buy this.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    A hovercar.

  • 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?

    £8,250

    When did you buy the car?

    March 2008

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Yes. Played off 2 local franchises till I got £549 of the purchase price.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Fuel economy, low tax band, cheap to buy new

    What was the dealer like?

    Friendly, tried to get the papers signed quickly, looked pissed when his manager agreed the final price. Made the whole experience of buying a new car rather amuzing.

  • Driving it

    3 out of 5 3.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Fine. Contrary to other reviewers opinions brakes are good, and cruising at 85 is perfectly comfortable. It's no Gti; corning at speed is NOT an option, but I bought it for economy, not stability through corners.

    What's it like to park?

    A doddle. Great visibility all round and a tight turning circle. Tiny bonnet and boot allow squeezes into the tinceyest of spots.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    No. The only quibble is that I only seem to get around 52mpg, But this may increase as I have only done around 1500 miles thus far.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Having 5 doors. I would never buy the 3 door variant of this car. The boot is so small that stowing stuff on the back seats is essential.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Air con is nice at a £500 option. I am a little annoyed having bought the top spec model that only the driver's door operates the interior light, and there is no passenger side electric window switch on the driver's door.