Faults:

Poor central locking, remote key never worked.

Door locks freeze instantly below zero, as well as door handles and at last the hole doors.

New coil at 105000km.

Interior lights doesn't come on any more when any door is opened, and other minor problems.

General Comments:

Quick and accurate drive, but not very comfortable.

Feels a bit cheap, despite many Volkswagen components. Not every bit of plastic is German.

Noisy at speeds over 80 km/h.

Relatively spacious luggage compartment for such a compact estate. But not for grown men in the back.

Faults:

All door-locks went to hell in two months

General Comments:

The car is quick, with sharp steering and very good road manners, but it is very noisy at 3000 rpm and 100 km/h. The interior is a bit cheap, but practical and rather good looking. Seats are firm, but not especially comfortable. The suspension is o.k.

0,70L/10KM at highway driving doesn't make it especially economical. There is plenty of room for the legs at front, but under average for the cars size in the back. Plenty of space for luggage however when rear seats are folded. A little bit sportier car than it's twin Polo STV, but with a bit more questionable build quality and finish.

SXE is reasonably equipped for a car at this age with double airbags in front, ABS, central locking, and electrical windows at front, and mirrors.