EVOLUTION'S the name of the game at Fiat these days as the Italian company's most popular model becomes progressively more cutting edge.

First the plain old Punto grew bigger and became the Grande; now it's cleaner, more upmarket, better looking and called the Evo.

And for those wanting an extra helping of wallop, there's even a sharp and sporty Abarth version up for grabs.

Fiat actually holds the distinction of being the car maker with the greenest credentials in Europe and in the case of the Punto Evo we are talking a car that heralds a raft of fresh innovations and safety features.

Inside, the cabin looks and feels classy, while the piano black panel surrounding the sound system adds an upmarket touch. The seats are also comfortable and the two-tone plastics soft rather than brittle.

Every model in the 22-strong line-up is fitted with Fiat's Blue&Me interface that controls all the car's major functions. However it's well worth the extra £275 to add the slick new Blue&Me Tom Tom.

This means fingertip access to a touchscreen navigation set-up, mobile phone, trip computer and MP3 player with steering wheel commands.

It is compact, links to the car via a discreet integrated connector on the dash and being portable it can be used in any other vehicle.

It also includes something called eco:Drive, whereby owners receive info on how to reduce the environmental impact of their driving style.

Key to the tested model's terrific economy is the MultiJet diesel engine, this particular one the higher power of the two 1.3-litre units available, at 95bhp as opposed to 75bhp.

MultiAir works by optimising air intake over the car's entire rev range, the upshot being a reduction in fuel consumption, lowering of emissions and boosting of power - all by an average 10 per cent.

The official average fuel figure is a useful 67.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 110g/km means that car tax is only £35 a year.

It's all helped along by Start&Stop technology - something most manufacturers have adopted, though some do it better than others - which automatically cuts out the engine when the car is at a standstill.

Some appreciate it, others loathe it, but the beauty of Fiat's system is that you can switch it off - and I did.

Otherwise this Evo is an engaging and enjoyable car to drive provided you aren't seeking too much in the way of performance. Interior space is adequate for a car of this size, the boot reasonable and standard kit comprehensive.

Safety spec includes a driver's knee airbag, ABS and hill holder, while electric mirrors and front windows, adjustable steering wheel and 'follow me home' lighting are included on every car.