Vauxhall Ampera Hatchback (2012 - 2015) Electron 5d Auto (2012/62) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I hope it saysi care about the planet we are going to leave to our great grand children but wont compromise style and drive a nissan leaf.

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

They all thinks its great. They cant believe the torque and acceleration or the quietness and comfort.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes every day of the week. Its fulfilled everyone of my expectations something that no other car ever has.

What are you likely to buy next?

My next car will be another PHEV, maybe the Mitsubishi Outlander, maybe the VW Golf GTE. I've got a charger on my house now and I've saved a fortune in running costs so I don't think ill ever go back to a oil burner.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£27,000

When did you buy the car?

January 2015

Did you get a good deal and why?

Not sure if it was a good deal but they found me the exact model and colour I wanted and I have got half price services and mots for life.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I was attracted to the Full electric drive with the range of a petrol engine.

What was the dealer like?

The dealer is an Ampera specialist, there aren't very many of them around. They are helpful courteous and have always had a loan car for me when my car is in. They always clean the car inside and out. Very satisfied.

What's it like to drive?

Effortless. The torque and power delivery is so smooth it just whisks you down the road. With no gears the progress is quick and simple. Most other cars are stationary at the lights as you disappear in silence :).

What's it like to park?

My model has a rear view camera so parking is simple. My daughter could do it.

Have you had any problems with the car?

I have had a sticking charge flap, which needed encouraging to open, moisture in the reflector lens' and hatchback struts replaced. All this work was carried out under warranty and other than these niggling problems no issues at all.

What's most practical about your car?

My commute is 21 miles a day. I can do this on half of the battery in winter, less in summer, and a full battery charge costs me £1 on my current electric tariff of 10p per kwh. I travel to work three times a week 160 miles a month and this costs me £6 a month. After 1 year and 10k miles i've averaged 108mpg.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Remote warming. On those icy mornings I wake up and reach for the key, I keep next to the bed, two button pushes has the car defrosting the screens, warming the seats and the cabin. I haven't defrosted a car since 2014.