There are a few too many things that are wrong with this car. For example, the "non-power" rear windows, the absence of an auto up/down feature for the front windows and the lack of a cruise control just to name a couple. The grab handles to close the doors are difficult to reach and they require reaching far out to be grabbed in order to close the doors. The radio sound quality is fine, however reception is terrible. The A/C works well enough, although it takes time to really cool down the cabin. There is much wind noise that penetrates into the cabin at highway speeds.
This is a hardcore car yet it comes without a warning about allowing the car to idle for a few moments after a hard run to prevent the oil from cooking. If I can take an example from my personal experience, my old 1989 Mazda MX-6 Turbo did have a label on the other side of the driver side sunvisor. This would be a useful addition considering the potential for damage to the engine.
Technical
The engine, shared with the PT Cruiser turbo, is a 2.4L 4-cylinder turbo charged engine that develops 230 hp @ 5 300 rpm and 250 @ 2 200 lb/ft of torque. The horsepower figure is up from 215 hp in 2003 and is apparently on its way to nearing 300 hp according to sources. The only available transmission is a heavy duty 5 speed manual that includes a limited slip differential. The original equipment tires are BF Goodrich G-Force T/A sized at 205/50R17. They provide great dry surface traction but a little caution is required in wet conditions especially when they are a little worn.
On the road
Once the minimal lag is overcome and boost builds up, the power becomes explosive above 3500 rpm. This car is a brute. I cannot think of another word to better describe this car's behavior. It throws you back, pulls you forward, and tosses you from side to side.
It is very easy to drive everyday as it has tons of low-end torque and hp before boost kicks in (reminds me of the 2004 Lancer Ralliart with the 2.4L 4 cyl. engine). The short-shifted gear lever is precise and direct. Steering response is fair, though the large turning circle is something to keep in mind when parking. Brake pedal feel is very good, with little travel and instantaneous response after they have warmed up a little.
The suspension comprised of Tokico shocks and a lower ride height is fairly harsh. On a even surface, the ride is actually quite smooth but as soon as the road surface starts to deteriorate, so does the comfort level: the stiff shocks mixed with little wheel travel really shake everything up. There is a surprisingly important amount of body roll in curves and the car tends to under steer.