• Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    The blacked-out rear windows and spoiler are a bit of a statement. But...it looks great on the road and remains stylish without being ostentatious.

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

    They love it!

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Definitely, it's without a doubt the most fun car I've ever owned (in driving experience terms). Just take into account your driving style - I do about 70% city driving and for me the mpg doesn't add up when compared to more-efficient models. I average out at 36mpg although the best month I had I acheived 40mpg.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Audi A3 Sportback.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Didn't buy from a dealer

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £9,000

    When did you buy the car?

    August 2011

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    I got a good part-exchange on a Vauxhall Meriva.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Wanted to experience a hot hatch.

    What was the dealer like?

    Great, very helpful!

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Easy driving whilst being lots of fun on motorways and country roads - the turbo diesel engine really packs a punch. Around town it's a smooth enough ride but this car is really built for long journeys at 50MPH and above.

    What's it like to park?

    OK - quite a large turning circle compared to similar sized models in the class, but no great trouble.

  • Living with it

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Nothing at all - runs like a tank.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Cruise control is a must for motorway journeys.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    The positioning of the gearstick (on the control panel) is a little unusual, but very comfortable once you get used to it. A real talking point when people see it for the first time.