IN the dim and distant past an Alfa Romeo was one of those brands that was regarded as unattainable and a car that you would probably never get to drive.

But things started to change in the 1970s with the little Alfasud and have progressed over the years to make Alfa Romeo a much more significant player in the UK market.

Alfa has its sights set on the business market with a Business Edition version of its very good looking Giulietta model aimed specifically at the user-chooser sector.

Powered by a range of economical, low-CO2engines with the option of six-speed manual or ALFA TCT twin-clutch semi-automatic transmissions.

Extremely high level of standard specification includes a 6.5-inch UconnectTMsatellite navigation system, DAB, electric lumbar support, alloy wheels, parking sensors, metallic paint and dual-zone climate control.

One of the secrets of this car's compelling pull is extremely competitive 'on the road' and P11D pricing for tax purposes.

The model is based on the well-equipped, mid-range Distinctive trim level but with a host of additional features which are fast becoming essential equipment for user-choosers.

It is easy to see why business drivers would choose this model.

I drove a JTDM-2 1.6 diesel version which featured 16-inch Turbine style alloy wheels; dual-zone climate control; cruise control; rear parking sensors; DAB digital radio and Bluetooth connectivity (with music streaming and an SMS text-message reader with pre-programmed responses) which are already standard on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta Distinctive.

The car also featured a UconnectTMinfotainment system upgrade, with voice-programmable satellite navigation with 3D mapping, as well as the Visibility Pack (dusk and rain sensors; self-dimming rear-view interior mirror and power folding door mirrors), front seat electric lumbar support and front parking sensors.

The 1.6 turbocharged diesel is one of four tax-friendly engines in the range.

It returned stats including a CO2 emissions readout of 104g/km plus a combined combined Economy of 70.6mpg. Since I tested the car Alfa has announced upgrades to the engine which make it even more competitive.

At £19,080 it represents excellent value for a premium business model and it is also a vibrant and refreshing drive as Alfa always have been.

With 105bhp on tap and 320Nm of torque you can zip through the six gears to achieve a top speed of 115mph with a 0-62mph sprint of 11.3 seconds.

One of the notable features of the Giulietta is Alfa Romeo DNA driving mode application.