Mitsubishi Colt 1.3 CZ2 3dr Car Review - February 2012

The Colt’s 1.3 litre 4-cylinder petrol engine is moderately powerful, delivering 94 bhp and 92lb-ft of torque. A top speed of 112mph and a 0-62mph time of 11.0 seconds are both fairly average for a car of this type.

The ride quality is reasonable over all but the most compromised surfaces. There is a fair bit of engine and wind noise at speed and, although the steering is light and agile, there is a lot of body roll through the bends thanks to the Colt's tall shape.

The car is a bit dull to behold but it is tidily styled. The interior is well put together but the quality of the plastics leave a little to be desired and some of the interior materials feel very low-rent indeed.

The Colt comes with alloy wheels, air conditioning, electric door mirrors, electric front windows, cruise control, stereo and MP3 connectivity as standard. The car also comes with steering wheel-mounted stereo controls and front fog lights, with metallic paint costing an extra £399.

Whilst many of its rivals provide six airbags and stability control across their respective ranges, the CZ2 comes with just driver and passenger front airbags. This is not good enough in this day and age. Deadlocks, remote central locking and an immobiliser are standard however, protecting the car from theft.

There is plenty of cabin space for passengers but the miserly 160-litre boot is a real disappointment.

The car comes with a three-year warranty which some may consider reassuring considering the model's questionable reliability. According to the 2011 JD customer satisfaction survey, owners rated its mechanical reliability and exterior and interior quality as below average.

The dash is well-organised with large buttons that are easy to use. The steering column only adjusts for height and not reach and visibility is poor.

The Colt is priced at £10,699 which is very reasonable considering the equipment on offer.

In terms of affordability, it may be best to keep it simple and opt for the basic trim and a 1.1 litre petrol engine rather than paying for additional features. The car is a decent prospect for first time buyers and families looking for an affordable small family car and long term ownership, as resale values are strong.

However, the Colt’s questionable reliability record must be taken into account and whilst it has an excellent fuel economy of 50.4 mpg and low carbon emissions of 130g/km (placing it into road tax band D), this may not be enough to encourage drivers to part with their cash.