I don't know what it is., honestly.
I've had a few mates (not chavs) that had Saxos, 106s and 306s. They all said the same thing that they wouldn't buy French again. Always had a problem.
In saying that my father in law has a laguna and taxis it (160,000 miles +), the timing belt has went once which could happen on any car, other than that no real mechanical issues. His main gripe is the cost of umpteen window motors, tyre sensors, brake sensors etc. Mechanically fine, electrically poor.
One mate had a Saxo and ran it into the ground. He now has a C4 and swears by it... I think I'd just end up swearing at it though. As I say I don't know what it is...