I only heard about its Lotus styling, but here's the quote from
verdictoncars.com. I like the last para: 
Gen2 looks quite smart from the outside and it was developed with
help from Lotus - but don't be fooled. If you can put up with the
appalling engine noise then the other serious drawback is lack of
power, especially at low speed. Avoid the automatic gearbox option
and buy a periscope for extra rear visibility. The driving position
is terrible and soft seats don't help. Inside, the fit and finish
lack any refinement. Passengers are confronted by dull, lifeless
plastic and flimsy fittings all round. If you must have a brand new
car then the Gen2 is relatively cheap - until you come to resell
it. Equipment levels on some cars are good, with air conditioning
and a Blaupunkt CD-player. Overall though, a smaller Ford Fiesta,
or a bicycle are better buys.