M-Sport 118d 5dr Hatchback

A robust and reliable car the 118d is competent in all departments

In three years and 50k miles I have had no mechanical or electrical issues with the car.
The 118d powertrain is smooth and relaxed, it will pull continuously to the redline but there is no familiar diesel torque surge. As a rear wheel drive car you do need to adjust your driving style as overspeed entry into to corners will produce understeer.

I have had no issues with clutch judder, battery, auto start-stop or with the diesel particulate filter. I had one minor issue with the drivers seat fabric splitting after 18 months, but this is a known issue with the artificial flashpoint/sensatech cloth.

In cold conditions winter tyres transform the car and even on run-flat's the road noise is reduced. Budget on having a set of winter tyres, you can use them from October to March.

My normal commute is 11 miles mixed driving each way, fuel consumption has always been between 48-52 mpg, 60mpg is only realistically achieved on longer journeys if you leave the cruise control on 60mph. M-Sport cars do not have active radiator flaps so realistically a SE spec car would have achieved a better consumption.

The car is setup with variable interval servicing, so maintenance costs are based on how you drive, there is a huge range in prices between main dealers and good independents.
Do your homework and find one that fits your pocket.

My minor negative comments are;
1. Black interior heats-up even on mildly sunny days.
2. Pedals are offset left-right, and also the organ-pedal style throttle sits a bit closer.
3. Business CD player is a terrible head unit.
4. Gear linkage can be a little stiff, this could be due to the clutch delay valve.
5. Preset 'camber pin' on front suspension mounts can lead to outer shoulder tyre wear.

A robust and reliable car the 118d is competent in all departments, I would recommend this as an alternative to a Civic, Focus, Golf or A3.

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