Summary:
A fast and interesting alternative to a Mini
Faults:
Annoying trim rattle.
Seat belts cannot be adjusted for height, and the inertia-reel locks too easily, pinning you to your seat!
Hard bumpy ride with 18 inch low profile tyres.
Tyres puncture and wheels kerb far too easily.
Temperamental Windows-Mobile based Bluetooth/MP3 system.
General Comments:
A wonderfully schizophrenic car; quiet and docile in "Normal", fast and furious in "Dynamic".
The styling is controversial, but gets admiring glances from everyone.
Fit and finish is generally good, and the leather trim is great, but the glovebox can rattle sometimes, and despite several attempts by the dealer to rectify, it still is a problem; the only solution I have found is to drive with the glovebox empty!
Rear seats are adequate for short journeys, but small windows mean it's rather claustrophobic for rear passenger, but no big deal. Boot space is way better than a Mini.
Faster than a Mini Cooper S.
Overall, a fast and exciting practical car that's more interesting than a Mini, and with a reasonable boot.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 1st May, 2011