Faults:

Car Faults to date 03/03/02:

Wrong number plate fitted on collection of car.

NEW car not valeted on collection.

Marks on body work paint, removed after a full hand wash.

Grease, dust marks all over dashboard.

Black marks on rear passenger door.

Black fingerprints marks over roof fabric.

Driver Seat belt damaged needed replacement - Reported 3 times still not fixed to date.

Glove compartment faulty - would not close.

Driver side wing mirror surround scratched.

Drivers side plastic door protector strip dented.

Faulty radio fittings - metal lip on radio not fitted correctly.

Water leak in boot.

Broken and marked roof strip needed replacement - damaged when car in garage for leak to be fixed.

Disgusting damp musty smell in car, constantly getting worse.

Water over inside of car windows, not just condensation like advised by dealer, the windows are saturated with water.

Water leak in car under both driver and passenger's seats, carpet wet.

Car always feels damp when driving.

Faults:

The car had a squeaky clutch which has now been rectified by the dealer.

The drivers seat belt has a fray in it and I am still waiting to have it replaced by the dealer.

One of the rear number plate lights keeps falling out and again the dealer still awaits the part (3 months).

BY FAR THE BIGGEST PROBLEM is the fact that water seems to leek into the rear foot-wells from somewhere, causing the vehicle to mist up and smell. I would like to hear from anyone with a similar problem that has been rectified as my dealer does not fill me with confidence.

General Comments:

This is potentially a great car, but let down by minor problems and bad after sales service - in my experience.

Comfortable.

Looks great, though a bit plasticy inside.

Performs well, yet frugal.

Faults:

4400 miles: Boot (Trunk) latch seized. Needed a bit of oil. Courteous service by dealer.

6000 miles: Airbag warning light illuminated. Part replaced under warranty. Dealer was waiting 8 weeks for part, until I intervened and contacted SEAT UK directly. The part arrived the following day!

8400: Finish of door handle starting to bubble and peel away. Common fault apparently. Will be replaced under warranty soon.

General Comments:

I love this car! Excellent performance from the engine, coupled with a lovely gear change. Quick steering, and good manoeuvrability.

Excellent driving position, and easy to get comfortable.

The interior is generally a high quality finish, except for one door handle (see faults).

Economy is good (48 M.P.G. overall average).

Levels of standard equipment high: climate control, electric folding/heated/adjustable mirrors, electric windows all round, excellent sound system with eight speakers.