WHEN Alfa Romeo revamps a model to combine lower prices with extra kit then economies everywhere must be in trouble.

The Italians have streamlined the MiTo supermini range from 17 versions to nine with both the Turismo and Lusso trim levels being replaced with the Sprint version I drove.

Entry-level models are now known as Progression while Distinctive and the top-of-the-range Quadrifoglio Verde take the place of Veloce and Cloverleaf respectively.

All models now get remote central locking, CD/radio with MP3 player, start&stop technology, plus body-coloured front and rear bumpers.

Step up to the Sprint and Alfa adds electronic brake assistance and hill holder control, 16-inch alloys, the DNA vehicle dynamic control system, Bluetooth connectivity, electric heated door mirrors, steering wheel with controls for the radio, leather gear knob and front fog lights.

Reach the summit and 18-inch alloys plus a raft of cosmetic enhancements will be yours to enjoy.

The DNA system offers Dynamic, Normal and All weather driving set-ups depending on how sporty you are feeling and what the road conditions are.

It is simplicity itself to change between the different settings via a switch situated next to the gearstick.

The All weather drive is useful in ice and snow but doesn't give much off-road capability and indeed Alfa makes no such claims for the car.

The MiTo features a plethora of safety systems with all versions fitted with electronic stability control, seven airbags and active anti-whiplash head restraints.

This is exceptional for a supermini so it's no shock to discover the MiTo boasts the maximum five-star safety rating in crash tests conducted by Euro NCAP.

As well as a ton of equipment the revised MiTo also boasts three new engines including the London congestion-charge busting 1.3-litre diesel which produces a sprightly 85bhp and just 95g/km of carbon dioxide.

As well as having nothing to pay when heading for Oxford Street there's also no road tax while the oil burner's outstanding fuel consumption is just what the doctor ordered in these financially challenging times.

I found it a willing beast although you do have to be in the right gear otherwise the power is a little slow to come through - so perhaps it's as well there's an indicator on the dash to tell the driver when best to change up or down.

The exterior of the MiTo is pure Alfa with sweeping curves and an unusually styled face and neat rear end helping it to stand out from the crowd.

The interior is a little more subdued and traditional providing a comfortable place to spend a journey without doing anything to blow your socks off.

The materials used are generally of good quality. There's a glovebox but little in the way of covered cubby holes to keep things out of sight. There's one cup holder up front so either the driver and front passenger are going to share a drink or take it in turns.

The cloth-covered seats are body-hugging and it's easy for the driver to get a good position behind the steering wheel.

The controls for the air conditioning and CD/radio are logically laid out and there's little in the way of clutter to  confuse things.

The front seats in the three-door MiTo slide and tip forward giving good access to the rear although once there leg room is a little tight.

The boot can be opened off the key fob to reveal a surprising amount of luggage space which swallows more than you would think as it is quite deep.

The MiTo looks pricey for a supermini but the Alfa Romeo name ensures strong resale values while low running costs will help to ease the burden of the initial outlay.