Fun but practical.

Byline: PATRICK JAMES

ALFAs have often been described as a triumph of style over substance. Not so the latest models and in the case of the new Mito, one of a new generation of hi-tech, keenly-priced models that are at the vanguard of Alfa's buoyant sales.

True, it is too early to judge reliability, but Alfa have made great strides in this area.

The Mito, especially the 155bhp test model, is a pocket rocket and joins the premium supermini bracket of cars taking on the likes of the Mini and BMW 1 Series and more than holds its own in terms of looks, desirability and resale values.

The interior is traditional chic Alfa styling. It has a quality feel with soft touch neatly patterned fascia and door materials. It looks and feels expensive. Controls also feel solid and well built.

Interior space is good generally, but slightly cramped in the rear. But for driver and passenger head and legroom is good and visibility is not bad either for this type of car.

The Mito offers a choice of petrol and two diesel engines and the turbocharged 155bhp 1.4-litre power unit in the test model proved very quick and surprisingly economical.

That engine is one of a number of power variants on the 1.4, which ranges from super economical to sporty.

The test model powers to 60mph from a standing start in just eight seconds. Economy is definitely good with a 43mpg claimed, but too much right foot on the accelerator sees this drop especially when the turbo kicks in.

It is a proper fun car on the road, but still offers reasonable practicality. The Mito has three trim levels, Turismo, Lusso and Veloce, with even the entry level carrying high specification.

The test model Veloce features just about every creature comfort, but you would expect that at a price of pounds 14,495, but having said that it still is a lot cheaper than equivalent opposition.

Prices start at pounds 10,745, for the 1.4 Turismo.

Facts and figures ALFA ROMEO MITO 1.4 TB VELOCE (155BHP) PRICE: pounds 14,995 MECHANICAL: 155bhp, 1,368cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 6speed manual gearbox.

MAX SPEED: 134mph 0-62MPH: 8 seconds , COMBINED MPG: 43.5 INSURANCE GROUP: 10 CO2 EMISSIONS: 153g/km BIK RATING: 16% WARRANTY: 3yrs/unlimited mileage

CAPTION(S):

POCKET ROCKET - Alfa Romeo Mito 1.4 TB Veloce (155bhp)