1.4i SE 5dr Hatchback

Reliable and versatile

I bought this to cope with my 85 mile daily commute without breaking the bank buying a car and not spending all my hard earned on fuel. It has in general been very reliable, but some age and mileage related problems have surfaced, but thankfully have been fairly simple and cheap to resolve. While still under dealer warranty the hatchback door lock actuator was replaced FOC. One year later it made it though its MOT but with a few advisories, such as poor handbrake, perishing rubber bushings and on set of corrosion. A replacement brake calliper, new front suspension arms, a clean up and waxoil has sorted the advisories. I've done 27k with her and also had to replace the exhaust, battery and a set of front tyres. Driving wise it copes well with my commute mainly on A roads between 50 and 60 mph. It is low geared 3000rpm at 60mph so I would not recommend one for long motorway trips. Average mpg is 53 which is pretty good. Handling wise its quite fun but no sports car, the firm suspension holds her tight around roundabouts (the only fun part of commute). I like the comfort and flexibility of the interior, the magic seats give various storage options, and being a dog owner the ability to have a large flat boot keeps the pooches happy. I have been notified by Honda of recalls for the window switches and the airbags and once the airbags are available will put it in for both issues at the same time. Overall I have been very pleased with the car, but I do intend to replace it soon as it now has 120k on the clock. No hint of the gearbox issue so far thankfully.

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