Faults:

Actually only the soot filter has gone wrong, and unfortunately the dealer fitted a smaller capacity unit 3 times in a row.

General Comments:

A FIAT in a designers dress, good value for money (I am Dutch). Reliability issues are nonexistent, and neither is the awesome Alfa Romeo feared corrosion.

It is actually a better driver's car then its predecessor, a 130 HP Passat TDI from 2001 (also chipped).

The steering, roadholding and brakes give a better feel, and the seats are going from hell to heaven compared to the Volkswagen's.

Although the Passat is roomier in the back, the boot is bigger; I see this as a small sports saloon.

Engine got a much needed new chip to improve performance and get better fuel economy.

Spares and service are both cheaper than the VW dealers used to charge me