NOW admittedly I did spend most of the time with Hyundai's ix20 either on local trips around town or bashing down the motorway.

But even so, I was surprised at the poor average fuel consumption. I got of just 44 miles per gallon when the official figure is 65.

I drove the 1.4 litre diesel with a reasonable power output, but even so, it was hardly man enough for the extra weight of the ix, which is rather like a mini-MPV.

On one blustery day driving against the wind down the motorway, it would not go faster than 60 miles an hour in sixth gear, and I had to drop down to fifth.

That said, in almost every other way, the not-so-little Korean hatch was a great companion. It has a very comfortable ride over virtually all surfaces, and was also agile enough to out-corner other similar and supposedly much better cars.

It is refined and quiet, with a smooth engine and at lower speeds, a perky nature.

There is plenty if room for four or occasionally five, the driving position is very good and the boot is also a decent size.

5 years/ unlimited miles

9/10

Renault Clio Estate