1.6 Stylance 5dr Hatchback

Good family workhorse that does the job well

After owning a great little fiesta zetec s, our family needed something bigger and in 2007, bought a silver altea with below average miles on a 54 plate. We then sold it in July 2013 due to high miles and age. In the 5 years we owned it, it proved to be (mostly) dependable and well built family transport. Good handling, well judged steering and confidence inspiring brakes made this a mini mpv that neednt be a hardship to punt along, although the engine could feel strained at times leading to indifferent economy. Visibility (common altea complaint) made parking tricky at times, while a jammed tailgate, corroding front brake discs and broken cd player that made a violent drilling noise when starting the car and switching the radio on cast a slight cloud over the period of ownership as well as a question mark over volkswagen's supposedly 'tough as nails' image. Having said that the altea's mechanicals were fundamentally reliable, while a slick gearchange, practical interior cubbyholes and very good safety kit make this a much more viable choice than the usual c max/ scenic trio. Come to think of it, it was such a good car to us that I do miss it somewhat, despite our new fiesta being a great little car. P.S the ride quality isnt that bad, despite what h.j says...

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