Faults:

Ignition coils frequently fail after 80,000 kilometers.

Condenser leaks and pressure sensor failures, which reduce performance and stop the system from blowing cold air in the summer.

Power window switches fail over time.

The heater fan is a bit noisy.

Rapid wear of the front brake discs and pads. I had to replace them after driving 20,000 kilometers following the car's purchase.

Clutch cables make noise and also suffer from wear.

General Comments:

The car is quite well-rounded and balanced. It looks like a small MPV and is ideal for intercity travel, with enough space for four people.

The interior does not look cheap for a car of this size; in fact, it is above average, thanks to the quality and fit of certain dashboard components and the feel of the controls, particularly the small steering wheel, which is very pleasant to the touch. The front seats do not stand out for their ergonomics, though they are highly durable and resist wear well.

Large individuals had no trouble settling into the seats, which offered excellent lateral support, better than their appearance suggested. However, the backrest and side bolsters were too soft, allowing the seat's internal structure to be felt during high lateral acceleration. The driving position featured a nearly vertical steering wheel that lacked reach adjustment and was positioned very close to the pedals.

Rearward visibility is good, thanks in part to large side mirrors, but also compromised by the height of the rear window, the headrests, and the thickness of the C-pillar. Forward visibility is likewise poor due to a thick A-pillar, a common feature in MPV body styles; however, the small window located between the windshield frame and the side window provides a bit of extra visibility.

The suspension tends to be stiff and harsh, transmitting every road imperfection to the occupants, especially urban speed bumps. On the plus side, it is highly effective during spirited driving, allowing for a sporty feel. The power steering feels "rubbery" at low speeds but improves as speed increases. The brakes are typical for the segment, ventilated discs up front and drums at the rear, offering a strong response under heavy use and good resistance to fade.

The engine is small but has a pleasant sound and benefits from good soundproofing. Like all small, naturally aspirated engines, it lacked low-end torque, though its operation was smooth and free of jerking. It began to wake up above 2,500 rpm, delivering its best performance between 3,500 and 5,000 rpm. If you floored the throttle, it responded without faltering as it pushed past 6,000 rpm, though beyond that point, the sound became less pleasant and the engine didn't run quite as smoothly.

As for the aesthetics (well, to each their own) but at least it was distinctive and unusual, catching the eye of passers bys. I liked it, or at least I preferred it to a Clio or one of those small Toyotas or Nissans from that era.

A good car overall.

Faults:

Nothing aside from a front left brake pad which had worn down - replacing it was a very cheap job and the brakes are back to normal again!

General Comments:

Coming from a 4 cylinder 1.1, I must say I am pretty impressed. The interior space is excellent for its class and it offers plenty of room for 4 adult passengers (5 could be possible?)!

It goes without saying that a 74hp car will hardly move like a mini-Evo, however the 1.1 3cyl is actually rather pleasant to drive! Much more character compared to other alternatives, sounds decent at high-ish revs and loves to explore the upper range of the rev gauge. Motorway trips are fine in this car, albeit slightly noisy, however keeping up with fast moving traffic in urban areas can be a challenge without glueing your right foot to the floor. Pre service I was getting just under 40mpg (which I find pretty good), however post service (the mechanic has used 5w-40 oil -- thicker, probably better suited to the colder months we are now facing) which has lead to a massive drop in average consumption (21-22mpg). For a 1.1, fuel economy wise, I am pretty unimpressed. If I had one complaint about the car, it would be the economy. Having said that, economy does appear to be improving the more I drive it with the new oil. Let's hope I can push it back into the 40s. Overall, decent fun and very practical!