Toyota Corolla Hatchback (2002 - 2006) 1.8 VVTL-i T Sport 3d (02) (2003/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Im not going to pay the stupid insurance costs of a Civic Type R but still want to smile when I put my foot down.

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

My friends had wondered what I had done buying this car as the reputation is that ofan old person. But after they have actually been for a drive they then realise why I had.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, but I would get the facelift version as it comes with extra body kit and is already lowered by 15mm and has torsion bars as standard so the ride is slightly better.

What are you likely to buy next?

Focus ST 2.5 if the wife lets me

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£4,500

When did you buy the car?

April 2009

Did you get a good deal and why?

Not a bad, deal considering I had the following work done before I picked it up... New hydrolic clutch, new clutch plate. New Discs and pads all round, full service (even though it was not due one for 7k) and just after I collected I had the piston rings, valve stem seals and a new cat. So all in saved me a lot of money and there should be very little to go wrong with it now.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Had to down grade from my previous ST220 beast and this was agreeable with the wife for insurance and running costs etc Also its got just enough go in it to keep me from being bored.

What was the dealer like?

Very good untill the car was colleted and then it was like getting blood out of a stone for the other repairs it needed. but got there in the end.

What's it like to drive?

As standard the ride height is far to high and it some what feels more like a rav 4 rather then a hot hatch. However toyota actually sell lowing springs for a resonable price which apprently totally changes the drive. The power has some power at low revs, but it turns into a different car after 6.2rpm and the look of complete shock as you fly past golf GTI etc is brilliant. It comes with a 3" pipe at the back which it faily loud, so if you are looking for a car that makes no noise then dont buy one of these. However I personally like it as its not too in your face but gives you the feel you are driving a sporty car. The 0-60 on the books (8.4) is completely wrong, I think toyota did this to keep the insurance band down as it is more around 7ish. This is a wolf in sheeps clothing and should

What's it like to park?

Little car, so no issues. Does have a beeper that constantky goes off when you are in reverse. But you get used to that after a while

Have you had any problems with the car?

Apart from having the bit replaced before I collected it. I had a real issue with the car burning a maaive amount of oil. This was very unusual for this model and make as they are renowned for being problem free and bomb proof. However piston rings, valve stem seals replaced and Im still testing the water.

What's most practical about your car?

The boot is big for a small car, it will fit in a pram and shopping with no problems (and there is still room for the kids toys)

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Climate control, the amount of hidden storage compartments.