• Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Probably looks conservative/fairly unremarkable, apart from the bright 'rebel' blue colour which gets attention, the twin chrome exhausts, 18-inch alloys and the Polestar labels (for those who spot them), so a bit different.

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

    Gets admiring looks.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes. High-quality performance with reasonable economy, comfort and security, in an attractive and slightly unusual body.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    No idea yet.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchised

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £17,000

    When did you buy the car?

    September 2013

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Not particularly. High price but for a special model (Polestar conversion) and full dealer service history.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Wanted a T5.

    What was the dealer like?

    Fine, though I was later passed to another member of staff who dealt with the eventual handover, about a week later, which was a bit disturbing.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Good: responsive power but smoothly delivered and confidence-inspiring safety and security.

    What's it like to park?

    Pretty easy - compact with reasonably good visibility and rear parking sensors.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    No,though the suspension proved very hard on poor surfaces, and the ride 'jiggly' on other than good motorway surfaces. Since alleviated by reducing tyre pressures.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Good mpg for the performance/power. Easy to drive for a powerful car/turbo progressive, not aggressive. Comfortable seats.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Radio quality is excellent. Mobile phone link via in-car speakers is handy.