MY first drive in the little Chrysler Ypsilon was huge fun but the Limited range topper is very expensive.

I drove it in 1.3 diesel form and I would think the standard 1.2 would be a better buy.

The Ypsilon is a Lancia in other markets, but like the Delta launched at the same time, the merge of the Fiat group with Chrysler has brought about a name change for Britain.

It's based on the Fiat 500, but with a longer body to accommodate five doors instead of three, and a little more interior space.

The diesel engine offers carbon dioxide emissions of 99 grams per kilometre, which means it's exempt from the London congestions charge and has zero road tax.

It has strong performance and is reasonably quiet at lower revs, besides giving a possible 70mpg.

The ride is comfortable, the handling and road-holding safe and fun and the whole car feels very good on the road.

The driving position is not perfect for tall drivers like me because there's no column reach adjustment, but there is enough space for a couple of child seats in the back.

: Fiat 500