Just got my 1.8 Elegance back from it's second service and after a burn along the A34, it feels like a totally different car.

Has there been an update released for the management system recently? Nothing was mentioned on collection, but there is a distinct difference in acceleration and smoothness.

Brake fluid changed too and it's amazing how you get use to the brakes and notice how firmer it now feels.

90% Placebo effect i reckon. If someone had took it for a service and not told you, i don't think you would have noticed any difference

Possibly. Feels good either way though, especially as it's still on free servicing.