What’s new?
Not much externally – just a grille – but inside are reshaped mouldings, new instruments and a dashtop cubby that you can now actually open. Most important, though, is the improved noise suppression. The body is stiffer, there’s a six-speed ‘box and the chassis’s been polished too.
What’s it like?
Full of verve – you need the (standard) cruise control to stop it drifting toward 100mph. And much quieter, even if there’s slightly too much tyre roar still. Really impressive are its flat, fuss-free cornering, clean-slicing steering and the tautness of its body and suspension. The ride’s firm, but well-damped - a fair trade for such deft handling.
Should I buy one?
Yes – its space, quality and value make sense, but verve is its most prominent characteristic, and you’ll enjoy that on every drive.
Richard Bremner
