Faults:

Sensors, sensors and more sensors. I can't recall all the sensors I've had to replace in this car. Fortunately many of these were factory waranties, but one Oxygen sensor cost me a LOT of money.

Power Windows fail. at about 35,000 kms I had one power window fail. at 37,000 kms I had another one fail. Unfortunately I had to pay for the second one as I was in the wrong country when it failed. $900.00 USD to fix! I feel a little ripped off by the dealer in Mesa Arizona.

An loud annoying grinding buzz when starting up the car since about 100,000 kms. I dare not go to the dealer to figure it out as it may cost me another several thousand dollars.

Lots of plastic parts seem to break on this car including interior covers for various things and the levers for tilting forward the front seats.

After a few thousand kilometers the quiet ride begins to deteriorate as more and more rattles expose themselves.

Overall cost of maintenance on this car has exceeded that of any other car I have ever owned, including cheap Geo Metros to 4x4s that thrash around in the bush.

General Comments:

The handling of the car is extremely good. This makes the BMW ZR3 feel like a underpowered 1970's boat-mobile.

This car is FAST! To give an idea this car has outrun police in Arizona AND Las Vegas. When highway driving in the states I frequently set my cruise control to 120 - 135 MPH. I was once approached by 405 hp Corvette owner who was faster, but not comfortably so, amazed that I was able to keep up with him.

The acceleration on this car is surprising and manages to get rubber over 60mph when the car is in top form.

Faults:

Power window gears on both sides broke and required replacement of the whole window assembly.

Driver side leather door trim came "unglued" and the whole interior door panel had to be replaced.

The emissions system has generated 3 check engine lights and has cost $1000 to repair over three separate trips to the dealership.

The center console and passenger seat rub together and make a constant noise.

General Comments:

The dealership has done a very poor job of troubleshooting the emissions problems and needlessly replace two oxygen sensors before finally locating the problem.

VW has only offered to cover $400 of the $1000 cost of repairs as a sign of "good faith" despite the fact that our precision engineered vehicle is falling apart.

Faults:

Had valve related noise. Fixed quickly and painlessly by dealer under warranty.

General Comments:

Quality, fit and finish are great. Way above average in it's class. Almost reaching AUDI, BMW feel, but for a lot less.

Not as sporty as image suggests though.

But I know they fixed it in 2002 version.

Great for everyday driving for one or two.

Faults:

Passenger door lock replaced.

Driver seat heating switch replaced.

Rear window fluid spray nozzle replaced.

Driver seat frame replaced.

Driver window regulator replaced.

Some minor creaks and rattles.

General Comments:

The engine power is excellent.

Very stable at maximum speed.

Sound level is excellent; very quiet.

Interior cabin appointed with good quality materials, with a well designed and very attractive layout (almost everyone loves the blue dash!)

The mileage of 9L/100KM is very good, considering the power.

This car is extremely tunable and customizable for the enthusiast!

HUGE carrying capacity for a car this size.

Handling is good, once your switch to better tires, but body roll somewhat excessive; the factory supplied tires inappropriate to this car and suspension a bit too soft.

Shifter is somewhat notchy, with long throws unless you are aggressive.

Rear seat room is somewhat cramped.