SADLY, the brilliant combination of Hyundai's excellent 1.6 diesel and dual clutch automatic gearbox is only available in top end cars in the i30 range.

But if you're in the market for a fun, comfortable five door hatch capable of a real 47 miles per gallon, don't buy without trying it.

It's as good to drive as the Ford Focus and almost as good as the VW Golf. That's how far the Korean company has come in recent years.

And it's cheaper than both those rivals into the bargain, with a five year unlimited mileage warranty. What's not to like.

The engine is smooth and quiet - hardly noticeable as a diesel when on the move - and it's willing and punchy when needed, pulling very well from low revs.

The DCT automatic gearbox, which is a manual with twin automatic clutches, matches it beautifully in full automatic and has a manual setting for the few who would like to DIY.

Honestly, why buy a dog and bark yourself? It works in full auto and there's no difference in the great economy either way.

Kickdown is easy, although the accelerator has to go down a fair way, and it gives very good acceleration in fourth and fifth, pulling hard from 1,800 revs.

There is even enough urge in the highest seventh gear for most manoeuvres on the motorway and, overall, performance is excellent.

Add to that a smooth ride over potholed roads, that gets even smoother as speed rises, and handling and road holding good enough for huge safety and plenty of fun.

The steering seems a little over light at lower speeds, but firms up perfectly above 35, and it has delightfully sticky road holding with a great feel and excellent balance.

Inside is a well laid out cabin with good rear legroom, a big boot, soft feel plastics and an excellent driving position.

Navigation is standard in the Premium I drove together with Bluetooth, aircon, stop start, parking sensors front and rear and a rear camera.

It has alloys, folding 60/40 split rear seats that leave a flat load floor, cruise, remote stereo controls and even a good sized glove box for once.