Welcome back Peter. I've had my 123d for close to a year now and I have to say it's a great all rounder. Since getting it I've averaged 47MPG which isn't too bad although I had hoped for a little better.
It's a quick car and handles very nicely while remaining very comfortable. Last week I had a trip down through Kerry along narrow twisty coast roads and it was fantastic.
The steering feels very precise and the diesel lump has plenty to throw you from corner to corner.

The one constant feeling though is that there's something missing. It doesn't have the smile factor caused by the noise of a high revving petrol engine which dulls the experience.
The gearbox also feels very laboured and clunky at low speeds.

You're welcome to give it a try if you're ever in the vacinity