Mitsubishi Carisma Hatchback (1996 - 1999) 1.6 GLX 5d (AC) (1999/S) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It's a smart looking car from all angles and looks particularly good from the rear when the lights are on.... it's an intelligent purchase!

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

Had good response... It's a good looking car. Some say it's a little low on entry and exit.

Would you buy this car again and why?

For sheer reliability and ease of ownership, it's a definite "Yes".

What are you likely to buy next?

Something, hopefully just as reliable, but perhaps a bit more fun to drive.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£1,500

When did you buy the car?

June 2005

Did you get a good deal and why?

Got a good deal. Got £200 off the screen price for no part-exchange. Got oil-change/M.O.T. and two new front tyres before picking the car up.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

My Mk1 Ford Mondeo had been written off - Needed a decent, clean, spacious, reliable replacement at a reasonable price. The car was around the back and caught my eye. Opened the bonnet and the engine sounded great and the car had obviously been well looked after. Came with some service history which was reassuring.

What was the dealer like?

Dealt with two different people. Both fine.

What's it like to drive?

Quite straight forward to drive. Not as nice as some cars I've owned... can move if you really want it to and seems to cruise well on the motorway. Gear change not as precise as I thought it would be but not a problem. Steering not the best but does its job and not too heavy. Overall a little dull to drive, but look at the reliability of the thing!!

What's it like to park?

Easy to park - The power steering is perfect! Narrower than my previous Mondeo which is good. Rear visibility out of the car is average.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing at all has gone wrong. Ultra reliable. Miles more economical around town than my previous Mondeo, although that was a 1.8... similar economy on a long trip. Started every time through the long, freezing winter of 2008... even when on 6AM shift!

What's most practical about your car?

Plenty of interior and boot space. Good hatchback and folding rear seat facility.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Electric windows can still be operated for a limited time after removing the ignition key, which is very handy when you've left one of them open! Also they have anti-trap facility!