Faults:

Rubbing strip detaching from body.

Gearbox needs replacing at 20000 miles. Dealer has agreed to replace. Now on order.

General Comments:

Generally very pleased. Saloon car performance and ride with frugal mpg - over 40 on most longer trips. The kids love it, but I wonder how the interior will stand up to them. It is already starting to show signs of wear. I don't find the heater to be very effective, especially at first. However, these are minor niggles.

I would advise anyone thinking of buying a second hand Alhambra TDI to go for the 110 or 115 bhp versions. I have driven a couple of 90 bhp models and they are pretty pedestrian by comparison with the 115 version.

Faults:

Anti roll bar ball joint has worn, first noticed at 6000 miles. Still waiting for spares (on factory back order!)

Unable to get consistent information on engine oil type. Dealer and manufacturer differ.

Squeaks and rattles from dash that come and go.

General Comments:

The sports suspension make this a hard ride on all, but the smoothest roads.

Oil consumption of up to 1 litre per 600 miles appears to be acceptable according to manufacturer. As oil can be either £7 or £20 per litre, depending on who you listen too, adds greatly to running cost.

"Blind spot" at offside drivers door post tends to make you have to lean forward a lot.

Faults:

Poor retraction of second row seatbelts - this causes them to get caught in doors.

Sticking switch on drivers door for rear offside passenger window.

Poor fit of all doors.

Rear wiper never cleared screen properly.

Driver's heated seat failed at 12,000 miles - repaired on guarantee.

General Comments:

Generally pleased with vehicle, but the Dealers were completely unprofessional.

1. battery flat when I went to pick it up.

2. Tow bar support (paid for) had not been fitted.

3. They lost my insurance certificate.

4. The service book took me 3 months and 6 visits to get it.