Faults:

Third and fourth gear synchomesh on gearbox suddenly became poor at 60,000 miles and involved an expensive gearbox rebuild.

Minor rear suspension components have needed replacement, possibly in part due the rough roads I have to use.

Never really been convinced that the steering and tracking were perfect despite repeated attempts at having this set up.

General Comments:

Much more comfortable than other cars of its class. Very roomy and a capacious boot on those versions which take the space-saver spare wheel.

When driven gently, fuel economy is excellent. When driven exuberantly, economy is still better than expected. For real performance, allow revs to go over 6000rpm. The limiter is around 7400rpm.

Handling is stunning, performance is ferocious at high engine revs, and yet it is a sensible useful hatchback with head-turning looks.

Used ones now quite affordable, but be wary of running and insurance costs of Japanese imports which have different body panels such as the square rear number plate.

Faults:

I have only has the car for about 2 months so I cannot give an accurate report on this, so far though there have been no problems whatsoever!

The car has only had three owners and full Toyota history, the only thing that has gone wrong with the car in its service life is the exhaust which has been replaced by a full scorpion stainless item...

General Comments:

I have always been a Honda fan, but in the end I was willing to try anything Japanese. I came across this car in a private sale and it sounded like a bargain, full history, three owners, totally standard, and low mileage. I went to look at the car and it was in immaculate condition. I arranged the payments and took delivery of the car within a couple of days.

The car looks gorgeous! Full of curves and sweeping lines with an aggressive front end, I also love those headlights! The one let down was that the car sat far too high which led to the first modification on the list!

Performance wise I was slightly dissapointed, it is quick but nothing like the CRX that I had before. Notable improvements are the midrange torque which the CRX lacked and it does have a higher top speed.

The car handles very well, plenty of grip and has a very nice feel through the steering wheel. This is all helped by the very supportive seats, which brings me to...

The interior. It is very good. There are no squeaks or rattles, all the controls are in the correct place and within easy reach. Build is typical Japanese plastic, but it looks like it will wear quite well and there is an overall high quality feel.

Overall a top quality motor which is equally at home cruising the streets or racing at the lights. I highly recommend this car!