My over half has had hers 3yrs now (sportka) and must say weve found it very reliable,only a replacement alternator. My way of looking at is i would rather pay a little extra a week on fuel and have something reliable than have a car that does 50mpg but goes wrong every couple of months.
I think there great cars so easy to drive handling is very good, First thing i thought when i sat in one was 'mk3 fiesta!'