FROM its high stance and rakish lines there is no mistaking the Citroen DS4 which looks great from every angle.

I recently drove the Tarmac rippling 197bhp 200 DSport range topper and was knocked out by its super smooth and tuneful 1.6 turbo engine.

This, because of its smaller size, manages much lower emissions than similarly powerful but larger alternatives, meaning lower personal tax for business users.  

The performance is marvellous, with bucketloads of acceleration from almost any speed and the road holding and handling are also top-notch.

It's a relaxed high speed cruiser for the motorway, with plenty of urge in sixth gear for manoeuvres, without having to change down.

And it is also a great companion on country roads, thanks to its great grip and tremendous acceleration for overtaking.

The only slightly negative point is a rather unsettled ride but if like me, you could live with that, you have a marvellous driving machine.

Inside, this top model takes much from the interior of the C4, with leather, climate control, MP3 connection, Bluetooth, cruise, six airbags and alloys all standard.

The boot is not all that big, and the narrow rear door apertures make entry and exit difficult for adults.