New Alfa MiTo

The new Alfa MiTo is stylish, sporty and economical. It has big goggle headlamps flaired wheel arches and curves on curves, it looks a lot cuter than the mini and could give be the minis strongest rival.

There are a number of engines to choose including a 1.3 litre diesel that will achieve 62.8mpg. With every model there is a DNA switch, this is a three position toggle that allows you to alter throttle response and steering. Put it on D for Dynamic and the accelerator is much sharper than N for Normal. A is for All-weather and makes responses more gentle.

Inside there's a convincing aura of Alfa. You sit lower than you do in a Fiat, in a seat designed to hold you firmly and has a feeling that you are in a full blooded sports car. The cabin is mainly black, but you can have tan leather seats (very Italian) and the padded, carbonfibre-look dashboard covering can be in dark red if the rest of the colour scheme suits. The main dials are hooded with Acqua and Benzina written on them – water and petrol in Italian.

It is three-door only, but there is proper space in the back for two adults. There is also a decent sized boot unlike the mini.

The price range start at £10,975 and the MiTo will be in showrooms from next month.