Faults:

Where to start?

Refuses to start cold.

Electric windows have a mind of their own.

Even the slightest hint of a wet road would previously result in the engine cutting out. A little tinkering sorted this in the main, but the issue returned intermittently.

Thermostat failed causing it to overheat. Took car to a very reputable mechanic and he discovered that the head gasket's on its last legs, and the driver's side CV joint's about to go.

General Comments:

The car's slow, handles poorly, and leans on its doorhandles in corners.

The body roll prevents the car from being comfortable.

Woeful engine lacks power, torque or reliability.

There is nothing about the car that I like.

Faults:

When I bought the car, the dodgy dealer had disconnected the ABS warning light as there was a sensor off and the braking ECU was faulty. I cured this with 2nd hand parts. The dealer wanted 578 plus VAT for an ECU!!!

Rear subframe bushes also shot, but a £15 part and £150 labour to fit, so not bad there. Had to change the plug leads as well, not cheap at £100 from the dealer, but the car runs spot on now.

General Comments:

Very quick car, even with the auto gearbox, but does use a LOT OF FUEL when you push hard.

Great Q car, most people don't know what's lurking under the bonnet, especially since I've de badged mine. No seriously, this car is very fast - a Porsche Cayenne was right on my tail till I got fed up and floored the accelerator. Left him for dust. This car will still keep on accelerating past 130 mph (on the autobahn of course). Probably good for 150 tops.

Downsides I suppose are the looks are very plain, has no aircon, bit of a bummer in summer and the ride can be fidgety and firm over potholes, and any poor surfaces.

On the plus side, the boot is big enough to swallow a family of refugees!

Faults:

Starter, fuel pump, windows open when you unlock the doors, interior lights have a mind of their own, plug leads are poor, and it's a slow starter in wet weather.

General Comments:

I know there are so many good reviews of this car, but if buying one, be very careful. Rev the nuts off it if testing. If it's an unsteady climb to 6,000rpm, walk away.

I bought a very poor one, which is a shame because it has the makings of a very nice car. It's comfortable, solid to drive and not badly equipped.

It's not fast, and it does roll about a bit in the bends, but it is much nicer to drive than the Golf of the same era, because it's more rigid and handles much better.

Faults:

Replaced the battery at 104000

Had to replace rear back exhaust box at 110000

General Comments:

This car is solid and durable.

One of the best smaller cars I have owned.

Very reliable up to now.

The performance is very good and economy is excellent for a 1.8 engine.