THE last Hyundai i10 sold in large numbers in the UK and with its blend of comfort, good road manners and decent equipment, it's no wonder.

But with the launch of the latest model in 2020, the company produced a city car that's right up there with the best in class.

It still has the same excellent economy and low emissions from an all-petrol engine line-up, but there is now a much higher level of equipment than most buyers would expect of an entry level car, and a higher quality feel.

Of course, all Hyundai's cars have an excellent reputation for reliability, and this is backed up by a market-leading five year, unlimited miles warranty that's transferable to new owners.

Inside, there is higher quality design and finish making it a more mature and interesting car to drive or ride in.

There are three power outputs to choose from, the first being a 1.0-litre with 67bhp that covers the 0 to 60 miles an hour sprint in 14.1 seconds and is capable of 60 miles per gallon.

Next there is a 1.2 and this has 84bhp. It gets to 60 in 12.2 seconds and can do a very best of 56mpg.

Finally, there is also a turbo version of the 1.0-litre, and if you are likely to be covering longer distances on a regular basis, this is the one to choose.

It reaches 60 in a shade over 10 seconds and can still do 52mpg, but its only available in top N-Line spec. Likewise, the entry SE is only available with the 67bhp 1.0-litre.

There's loads of room for four inside, which is very unusual for a city car, and the ride is supple and comfortable over most surfaces, putting it close to the top of the class.

But that doesn't mean there is a penalty to pay in the handling and roadholding.

On the contrary, it feels safe and well balanced in the corners, even when pressed very hard indeed, and very good grip from skinny tyres means it can be plenty of fun when you want it to be.

The steering is light and precise, making parking very easy, but it doesn't give much in the way of feedback to the driver through the corners.

There is an automated manual version available but it doesn't work very well, leaving too long between changes and when trying to kickdown to a lower gear.

However, it does maintain the manual car's level of economy.

Entry SE models get an alarm and air conditioning, heated electric mirrors, front and rear electric windows which all go right down, cruise control, height adjustable driver's seat and traction control

Premium spec adds alloy wheels, climate control and heated seats, while N-Line adds special steering wheel and gearknob, and has a slicker gearchange and modified suspension.

Pay about £9,700 for a '20 20-reg 1.0-litre SE 67bhp, or £13,450 for a '21 21-reg 1.2 Premium.