Faults:

At about 3500km everything "died" when I tried to start the engine. I was really getting no response from the engine when I switched on the ignition. I had it checked out, but nothing came up (or at least, that's what they told me). Since then, everything works fine.

A few squeaky sounds coming from the driver's seat. Nothing annoying really.

General Comments:

If someone told me a few years ago, that a 1.4lt car could perform the way the Ibiza does, I would certainly not believe him.

Despite a slight reluctance of the gas pedal, since the engine reaches about 3500rpm, the Ibiza is really powerful and practically begs to be pushed to its limits.

As far as handling is concerned, this car behaves like a train on rails even with the TCS off. Absolutely stunning!

Braking with the Ibiza is also a lot of fun. After all, it is the only 1.4lt car out there with rear disk brakes, ABS and countless other brake assisting electronic goodies.

All in all, the 2002 Ibiza is great and can certainly handle more horsepower. An absolutely fantastic super-mini and the best in its League.

Faults:

The engine stalled at 16,000 km while cruising at 120 km/h for no apparent reason. The engine management system recorded no fault. Never happened again since.

Driver side window lift replaced due to excessive noise at 51,000 km.

Water built up at the right side cabin floor at 87,000 km. Dealer blamed the heavy rain, but was unable to find the point of entry. Still a problem unsolved.

General deterioration in the Noise, Vibration and Harshness department as mileage builts up.

General Comments:

Extremely frugal when driven with a light foot.

Engine noisy, but willing.

Easily controlled around corners when grip is way lost. Leans a lot.

Rather short service intervals.

Roomy inside.

Faults:

The left door makes noises when I turn up the volume of the stereo, really annoying!

General Comments:

Very good brakes (in comparison with the VW Polo 2002 model)

Bad quality interior plastics.

Very good handling, sporty feeling.

Very noisy from 3500rpm and above.