Faults:

Minor malfunctions: Both rear door locks broke @ about 13K km, Sunroof was not opening at the time I got the vehicle, plastic elements are wearing out relatively easy.

Major malfunctions: though you're not expected to have any serious trouble with the engine if you service the vehicle regularly, and use it in the way it's meant to be (running it smooth and peaceful). Pushing the car to its limits can prove to be devastating to the gasoline powered engine - I had my block punctured after I drove for half hour at about 190 km/h (about 115 mph). But hey it was my fault, no one said this car was a racer.

General Comments:

Pros: good economy, very smooth ride (and I mean it), relatively cheap service, front sway bar, passive rear wheel steering, extremely durable corrosion free bodywork that could only be compared to recent BMW makes' or Golf II's. It's a french make.

Cons: BAD ROLL (lack of rear sway bar, soft suspension... hey please don't try to race it OK?) - car tends to lean in corners, which combined with the heavy front makes the car not just unreliable, but somewhat unpredictable when racing through tight corners.

It's a brake eater - my grandfather used to have a russian LADA, even she wasn't wearing out its brakes as easily as this baby does hers... while brake cylinders are generally meant to last a bit longer than usual, pads are literally melting away when performing emergency stops, and especially when overheating them (e.g. driving down a steep incline). Front tires wear off too, so be sure to have your front axle aligned regularly (or as needed)

Although it has no power steering, driving this baby is a real pleasure. Steering isn't heavy, it's just good enough to make your hour long ride pleasant.

This car will not prove good for you if you want to go for a sporty feel and take your ride to extremes.

But if you're a prudent and modest driver, almost always obeying traffic rules, then the odds are that you'll be enjoying this baby for many years (and mileage) to come.

Faults:

Head gasket replaced due to oil leak - $50 for parts and labour.

Servo check/fix - $35.

New exhaust pipe (last section) changed. Thank God that Catalyst is fine!

General Comments:

Outstanding ride - assured roadholding, soft suspension, quick and precise steering. Passengers sometimes do not notice cornering at all!

Interior is well laid out, seats are comfortable, there is enough room for 4 to 5 people, suitable to tall drivers. I've put 9 marks to comfort only just because I've driven my friend's XM :-)

The engine is willing (although 1.4 only), accelerates well in town, as well as on the motorway. The average fuel economy is <6L/100km on a long trip. I've also driven my colleagues ZX 1.8 Furio, go for it if you find one!

Very good rust protection - after 10 years shines like new.

These cars are very underrated here in favour of Ford, Opel and VW. If you once got such, you'll never ever look out for a German car!