JUST about the nearest competitor for the ever conquering MINI is the Audi A1 and I've just been putting the Sportback 2.0-litre diesel through its paces.
It's nowhere near as funky or quirky as the MINI but the interior oozes class and sophistication.
The diesel is a brilliant engine in what is a small and fairly light car, giving a smooth power delivery and great acceleration in all six gears.
It's a little gruff occasionally, but most passengers would hardly know it was a diesel.
The roadholding is excellent, with immense grip on fat, low profile tyres.
But the downside is a fidgety ride at times, and one that gets worse with sports suspension. So if you like your comfort, avoid this expensive option.
The steering is marvellously direct and responsive, the clutch light and the brakes are superb.
It is also very refined and quiet at speed. and two adults can squeeze into the small rear seats for a short journey.
Inside, there are the usual soft-touch materials and leather - in S-line trim at least - and like the MINI, there is a huge range of customisation and personalisation available.
That wide range of options even includes different rooflines, along with a wide range of extra equipment, to add to the very good basic spec.