I HAVE said before that the latest cars getting heavier and heavier.

The more weight there is to lug around, the more fuel they use.

Then along comes the Citroen Cactus with a small petrol engine and light weight giving excellent economy, low emissions and decent performance.

Very few people would save by buying the diesel, since it takes about 100,000 miles to make up the difference in costs.

The 1.2-litre three cylinder PureTech petrol engine is willing, quiet and smooth and I never felt the car needed more power.

The ride is excellent, the roadholding very good, and the handling right up with other crossovers.

The utilitarian looks and plastic panels may not suit everyone but as a crossover alternative this one is hard to beat.

Its higher ride height gives a great view all round, and although it only comes with front wheel drive, most of the other 4x4 lookalikes are the same.

The spartan-looking cabin is big enough for five in comfort with a good size boot. The instruments are simple and digital, and all other controls for sat nav, air con and stereo are controlled from a flat touch screen.