The Mito couldn’t have arrived at a better time for Alfa Romeo, as buyers seem to be gravitating towards smaller cars in greater numbers.

Some of its greasy bits are shared with Fiat’s Grande Punto, but the Mito has more exotic looks with a front end inspired by Alfa’s exclusive 8C supercar.

The Mito has a range of feisty petrol and diesel engines, but there is a 'tame' engine kicking off the range. The Mito Junior comes with a 78bhp 1.4-litre engine that perhaps doesn't fit in so well with the car's racy looks.

Step up from this entry-level version and there is a 95bhp 1.4-litre petrol or a 90bhp 1.3-litre diesel. Both manage to reach 62mph from rest in 11.8 seconds.

The most popular engine is the 120bhp 1.4-litre petrol engine (badged TB – turbo benzina) and this offers lively mid-range performance thanks to good low down pulling power. It will sprint from 0-62mph in less than nine seconds and offers a great balance of performance and economy.

The 1.6-litre JTDM diesel can accelerate form 0-62mph in less than 10 seconds and thanks to strong in-gear pace, feels safe when overtaking, plus it's very quiet when cruising and returns 59mpg. The top model is the 1.4 TB 155, a 155bhp version of the 1.4-litre petrol engine, which covers the dash from 0-62mph in eight seconds flat and has a top speed of 134mph. However, although it's undoubtedly quick, the engine doesn't sound that sporty.

The Mito feels agile on the road, but it is aided by an electronic system that changes the car's behaviour. Called DNA (which stands for dynamic, normal and all-weather), drivers can select different levels of responsiveness. The DNA switch is ahead of the gear lever and when the car starts, normal mode is pre-selected.

Holding the switch forward for a second selects dynamic, which delays the intervention of the traction and stability control systems, reduces the level of power assistance in the steering and results in a firmer suspension set-up. It's a little more engaging for the driver but less comfortable than normal mode.

Pulling the switch back selects all-weather, which results in earlier intervention from the stability control system, for better control of the vehicle in difficult conditions.

Overall the Mito is a fun car to take on twisty roads, but is also comfortable enough to use as an everyday car. An entry-level model in the range, the Mito Junior does without the DNA system and behaves in the same way as the 'normal' setting.

The Mito will only ever be offered as a three-door model, but while the boot is a decent size, the styling compromises practicality. There is a very high sill, which would make it awkward to lift heavy items over, but many people would be happy to endure this problem because of the styling. A split/folding rear seat is an option on the Mito.

Four versions are available; an entry-level Junior specification that does without the adaptive chassis system found on the rest of the range otherwise is similar to Turismo.

Turismo includes air conditioning, a CD stereo, trip computer, LED rear lights, electronic stability control with a hill hold function, alarm, seven airbags plus electric windows.

Lusso models have alloy wheels, a carbon fibre effect dashboard panel, leather covered steering wheel and chrome detailing. Veloce models add a front armrest/storage compartment, Blue & Me hands free system with Bluetooth, red painted brake calipers and a rear spoiler.

Buyers who opt for the Mito over the MINI can be confident of owning a car that's far less common, more attractively priced and better equipped.

Couple that with strong resale values and affordable lease and running costs and it's clear that this is the first Alfa in a very long time that appeals to both the heart and the head.

By Simon Harris