SLEEK, stylish, fun and funky. All these attributes can be said about the Chrysler Ypsilon which was launched in 2011 as the marque pulled out all the stops to re-establish themselves in the UK.

Now sitting snugly within the Fiat Group umbrella, the Ypsilon - for the UK actually a rebranded Lancia -  is bursting at the seams with innovation and technology, and kitted out with a luxurious finish normally found on premium brand models. 

Many Ypsilons were also specced up with the likes of xenon headlights, smart fuel systems, Blue&Me TomTom Live and automatic Magic Parking, so used-car buyers can expect to find many a hidden gem lurking in showrooms.

Chrysler knew there was a hard task ahead, for the supermini sector is a highly competitive one, but the design team did a decent job, giving the car a somewhat butch, unconventional exterior look that's just that little bit different.

At just 3.84 metres it is one of the smallest superminis around, but the car's clever packaging means it has masses of space and headroom, while the 245-litre boot competes well within its class.

Initially, the Ypsilon came with a choice of two petrol engines, either the group's 68bhp 1.2-litre Fire or the free-revving turbocharged 84bhp 0.9-litre TwinAir two-cylinder unit.

A 94bhp 1.3-litre MultiJet common-rail turbocharged diesel-powered variant, with its highly-economical 74mpg economy, completed the range.

But it's the tiny TwinAir model which has become the most popular with UK buyers. Available in either SE or range-topping Limited trim, there are also automatic versions available.

As superminis go, the nippy Ypsilon has a ride set-up verging towards the firm side. While this works really well on smooth highways and gives the driver plenty of confidence on more challenging roads, it also helps smooth out the poor surfaces found on our dreadfully-maintained streets.

Inside, the centrally-mounted instrument panel sitting above the binnacle housing the sound system and air conditioning controls is an unusual feature which takes a little getting used to, but coupled to the high driver's position, it does help give unrestricted views of the road ahead.

Safety features, including six airbags, anti-lock brakes and traction control, are all standard and the front seats also have an anti-whiplash system built in to cut the risk of injury in a rear-end shunt.

Other features include leather-trimmed steering wheel, 15-inch alloy wheels, heated electric mirrors, electric windows and six-speaker CD sound system, while on Limited spec models, full leather upholstery, fog lamps and automatic rain sensor wipers are among other features, while on some models a two-tone paint finish sets the car off nicely.

However, it's the Ypslion's overall driving abilities and great economy that has helped endear the car to many.

Combined fuel-consumption for the TwinAir is 67.3mpg, while CO2 emissions at 99g/km make this little gem free from road tax.

With its lively 109mph top speed and crisp acceleration, the Ypsilon is a more-than-worthy used-car option for those seeking out something different.

Because of their relative newness and exclusivity, chances are that owners will have taken good care of their cars, so for a decent early 2011/11-plate TwinAir version, expect to pay from around £4,565 to £6,795 in SE trim and from £5,020 to £6,790 for one in Limited spec.

A newer 2012/12-plate example will add another £900 or so to the above prices.