Rod, my sister drives one that's ~4 years old. It's a blast to drive, nice stiff clutch, short throw on the shift, excellent steering, power to spare for such a small engine, etc.
However, maintenance bills are killing her. A brake job was $1500, she's had the tranny done once (someone else mentioned that too), light bulbs are replaced on a semi-annual basis and there's always some little Whizgiggin or a Doo-Dad broken somewhere and needs fixing.
If I had to make a decisioin from hers, I'd say stay away from 'em, and I'd agree with Bill, go European for Luxury/Sport. She's also had a Beemer 3**i (don't remember the engine) and a Jetta, both of which were much better vehicles (IMHO).