Alfa Romeo Mito 1.4 TB Veloce (155bhp)

Jul 12 2009 Patrick James

ALFA'S 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 distinctive curvy and sporty styling is eyecatching as is the stylish front end and neat rear. Oddly shaped headlight and the traditional Alfa grille give the car the look of a face and the circular rear lamps are equally distinctive.

The interior is traditional chic Alfa styling. It has a quality feel with soft touch neatly patterened 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.

Body hugging firm seats keep occupants comfortable and there is an airy feel to the cabin.

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. It is an excellent drive with great handling and a decent ride, but the gearchange is slightly notchy which slightly detracts from the driving experience.

The Mito also offers a choice of ride, depending on circumstances, with their DNA technology. The letters stand for Dynanic, Normal and All Weather.

The three position lever near the gearstick allows the driver to switch between normal setting, which ensures the engine is tuned for, well, normal driving. Dynamic gives a sportier feel to the steering, suspension and handling, while all weather really speaks for itself - adjusting for best handling in low-grip weather conditions, loose surfaces, wet or snowy situations which increases traction control sensitivity.

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.

Two adults fit reasonably comfortably in the rear and boot space is fairly good, but can be increased by folding the rear seats.

Alfa, quite rightly, trumpet the high levels of safety on the Mito saying it is one of the safety cars on the road. It boasts five stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests and features seven airbags, including a driver's kneebag, anti lock brakes and stability control. Under heavy braking, the MiTo automatically operates its hazard lights to alert other road users.

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 £14,495, but having said that it still is a lot cheaper than equivalent opposition.

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

FAST FACTS

Alfa Romeo Mito 1.4 TB Veloce (155bhp)

Price: £14,995

Mechanical: 155bhp, 1,368cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 6-speed 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