This is a 2003 shell. Face lift done in 2006. New 1.4L engine loaded into this shell in 2008. Great engine, but old shell. Don't buy, wait for new model.
Strengths
Extreme Silky smooth engine. Even Honda & Toyota, known to be smooth, cannot compare. Engine is very responsive and POWERFUL. Cabin is very quiet. Build is very solid. Engine only 1.4L. Great resale value, strong branding. Only brand where manufacturer sells directly to end consumers.
Weaknesses
Third row seats too upright.
Back door looks too too outdated.
Hand brake and interior looks is conventional and boring.
The engine pulls away and accelerates very strongly from very low rpm and the DSG gearbox is very responsive. The handling is quite precise and the turning radius is quite small.
Ride is very bouncy. Just like the advertisement, passengers may really need to wear helmets!
While the interior is feels relatively spacious with rather ample leg room, the second and third row seats are hard and uncomfortable. Perhaps the lack of cushioning is to make the seats lighter so as to enable them to be removable.
The wheels are anaemic looking and still bears resemblence taxi despite the recent facelift.