THE Indian-made Suzuki Alto five door hatchback is very cheap to buy and run, it feels right and it's easy to personalise.

Car buyers often overlook this smallest Suzuki but it's delightfully easy to drive and live with in town, with a tight turning circle and light power steering.

The 1.0-litre engine in the most recent model built from 2009 is willing if a little noisy but it has to be pushed up the rev range to get any performance.

On the motorway the car can manage but is a bit out of its depth with minimal acceleration in fifth.

Its strengths are easy driving and economy, with a minimum of 40 miles per gallon even around town and 50-plus on a run.

It also has a comfortable ride for a small car, and although there is some lean in the corners, it still has good grip and roadholding.

There is plenty of room for front passengers and the driving position is good. Visibility is good all round and reliability is excellent.

Rear legroom is tight and the boot is small, but the split-folding rear seat increases luggage capacity easily. Base models don't get air con but do have remote locking, electric windows and four airbags.

Pay just £2,500 for an '09 09-reg SZ2, or £5,500 for a '13 13-reg SZ4.