MG might now be owned by the Chinese but it doesn't look like it's lost its feel for sporting cars.

The new five door MG3 is a supermini with space for four adults to ride in comfort, and performance enough to keep most petrolheads interested - but without breaking the bank.

Low prices and decent levels of kit make it very good value in today's marketplace and the company says it's very easy to drive and park.

It looks great on the road, with a low stance, day running lights and a purposeful air.

Power comes from the same engine in all models - a 1.5-litre that boasts 105bhp driving the front wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox.

Those that have driven it say it has to be revved to give its best, but more of that when I get my hands on one.

Prices start at just £8,399 and finish at £9,999 so it has to be worth a test drive.

The big interior dwarfs others on the market and the boot is also bigger than most. Kit can include sports bumpers, sill extensions, rear spoiler and chrome exhaust.

There's also a huge range of personalisation options including 13 graphics packages, four mirror caps, six different alloys and six interior combinations, which can include Bluetooth, DAB radio, USB music input, automatic lights and wipers, rear parking sensors and part-leather trim.