 I bought an "i" model for an outside sales job 3 months ago and have over 10k on it already.  This car has had no problems at all. Interior, stereo, handling and exterior are all better than I had in my '01 Civic.  It really carves up the road if you push it. At many speeds it will not downshift without use of the manumatic and that gets a little frustrating, it has very little torque. Produces a lot of brake dust but only on the rear wheels.  I am very disappointed in the gas mileage. 90% of my driving is highway and I get between 28-29 miles per gallon.  My Civic alway got over 36. If you want the feel of a Bimmer on the cheap, this is the car for you!