The anwer to your query is a very simple one indeed.......YES!!!
I bought mine in February 2004 after part ex-ing my beloved Volvo S40 2.0 Sport. After the purchase, I said to myself, why did I ever buy the S40 Sport in the 1st place when this thing is just simply the best thing around!!!
It is just magic! I have been away to the Lake Distict (in the mountains) a couple of weeks back with the Missus, her Mam & Dad 4 sets of luggage and a dog. No roof box as it all when in the back and the dog too!! It simply went like the wind and didnt struggle 1 bit!
What a magic motor! I bet there aint many cars out there that could do the same. Also, It went and handled better fully loaded, talk about sticking to the road!! I had it up to 95 MPH (153 k/ph) fully loaded at only 3,350 rpm!! and it wanted more! Honestly it would have done more if I put my foot down!
You can't beat the sweet sound of that growling enging - 2.4 5 cylinders with 20 valves! Sounds almost as goos as a V8!
Garage costs - in 1 year I have had a service and replaced a few bulbs and a couple of tyres (I gave the fronts a hard time) and thats it.
The only down point is that it aint the smoothest ride in the world but hey, its got everything else and when on a smooth road (or track whicj i would love to do) it will beat anything and the suspension is as smooth as silk!!
Hope this helps you decide to buy one!!
Cheers