Alfa Romeo MiTo 1.4 TB MultiAir 105 bhp Distinctive 3dr Car Review - January 2012

Transmission is manual in this front-wheel driven car. It has a 1368cc 4-cylinder 16V, petrol-engine that produces 105bhp at 6400 rpm and 96 lb-ft at 4000 rpm, reaching a top speed of 116mph and going from 0-62mph in 10.7 seconds. This is quite impressive for a car in its class. It won’t hurt to throw in the fact that the Alfa MiTo MultiAir won the International Engine of the Year Award, Best Engine in 2010.

The car is stable and comfortable on the road, thanks to standard VDC stability control. It offers steady grip and responds well in corners. This tranquility will only be disturbed if you rush through sharp or high bumps. Still, in terrains with low grip, torque delivery can be controlled by modifying speed when shifting gears (it has 6-speed gears) and being conscious of the position of the gear lever.

When it comes to appearance, the Alfa MiTo easily scores 10/10. Made in a classic hatchback style, it has all the trimmings that define a classy Italian finish. 5 seats make it appropriate as a small-family car. Even though it is small in build, it is surprisingly spacious for a 3-door. Boot space is average, its 270-litre boot provides just enough space for a small bag or two.

Standard features in the Alfa MiTo include air conditioning; driver, 7 passenger and side airbags, power steering, central locking, electric windows and mirrors, cruise control, seat-belt pre-tensioners, CD player, alloy wheels and rear parking.

Additional features available at a cost are climate control (£370), metallic paint at £425, electric roof at £600, leather seats at £900 and satellite navigation, also at £900.

The Alfa Mito did well in the NCAP crash tests, scoring an impressive 5-star rating.

If you prefer keeping your gold club and related gear in your car, the MiTo may not be the car for you as the boot becomes cramped in the face of large luggage.

Most models of a similar class have a more spacious boot and boot opening. Also, unlike most of its competitors, it does not come with a standard split/fold rear seat. Replacing the single seat at the rear with a 60/40 fold will set you back by £450.

The Alfa MiTo 1.4 l Multiair is quite economical, managing 49.6 mpg on the combined cycle. At 134g/km, the MiTo has an average level of carbon emissions.

The Alfa MiTo falls under insurance group 5, which should tell you that you won’t break a sweat paying your insurance premiums. Factors attributing to this are its solid build, security features and the certified high safety rating it received. It is classified under VED E, which again is low, attracting only £115 annually.

You will incur few running costs with the MiTo 105 bhp. Unlimited mileage forms part of the warranty and with a service interval of 18,000 miles, it is a good deal.

The Alfa MiTo 1.4l 105 TB Multiair is one of those cars that is a good buy both when new and used. It goes for £15,155 when new and is good value for money. You can still fetch over 50% of this initial cost should you decide to sell it in the future.