Although our second car, the Matiz is popular with everyone in the household, and the whole package is remarkable value for money.

We like:

• Spacious five-door design. My two teenage sons and myself are each over six feet tall and, together with my wife, we all fit in really comfortably (none of the popular superminis could do that - Saxo, 106, Ka etc were all very cramped)
• Group 2 insurance. My sons are aged 19 and 17 and, after some shopping around, the car is insured fully comprehensively for all four of us for £270 (with only £150 excess even for the boys!)
• High specification. Power steering, twin airbags, high-quality stereo, electric front windows, central locking, alloy wheels, immobiliser, split/folding rear seats and rear wash/wipe. All really appreciated.
• Fun to drive. Contrary to what many motoring journalists write, we think the 800cc engine has plenty of performance for the size and weight of the car. Cruising at 70 mph on the motorway with four-up is fine and comfortable. Around town it is a breeze, with really light steering, and the narrow body makes it a piece of cake to slip through all the narrow gaps.
• Economy. Competitive pricing, low fuel consumption, free servicing for three years, reduced road tax (VED) plus the Group 2 insurance make it outstanding value. Indications are that it may even retain a reasonable residual price.
• Exterior appearance. The design is really cute and funky - it looks more expensive than it is.

We dislike:

• Very little. There is no warning if you leave the lights on after switching off the engine, sometimes you can feel drains and pot-holes a bit harshly around town, and that's about it.

We have owned the Matiz for 13 months without any problems whatsoever - a great little car.