WE'RE all getting a bit bigger. Teens are taller, oldies are (shall we say, plumper) so it's hardly surprising that car makers are churning out larger cars.

The current Polo is the size or original Golf and the Fiesta - once a tiddler - has been pensioned off and the generously proportioned Puma is left to carry the baton.

But there's no mistaking the joy of driving a small, manoeuvrable saloon, especially if it's got a fair turn of speed and athletic handling.

That's where the Suzuki Swift Sport comes in. Still in the supermini class carrying very little unnecessary timber, this a class act with punchy performance, cheeky looks and reasonable passenger space.

It's an open secret that there's a replacement model about to be launched, so maybe some bargains are to be snatched on the current version...

The Sport 1.4 Boosterjet packs a 1.4 mild hybrid engine which punches out a healthy 127bhp, enough to send it scampering to 62mph in nine seconds. But better than outright acceleration is the even spread of torque that allows you to capitalise on the well chosen gear ratios and make the most of the super slick six speed gearbox.

The smooth revving four-pot engine is supported by a 10kW electric motor whose presence is only felt in terms of reduced emissions and a smooth enlarged power band. Despite electrification, a tight rein has been kept on the Sport's weight which is a mere 1,025kg.

Its trim form reaps benefits for the handling which is rewardingly communicative and agile. A further obvious effect is excellent fuel economy. Despite hard cross-country driving we averaged 47mpg and on a more gentle run we saw an average of 53mpg.

Drive the Sport hard and capitalise on that free-revving engine and noise levels inevitably rise - a bit tiring on long runs.

Obviously, the Swift body is small but those in the front are well catered for with ample head and legroom. Front seats are well shaped and superbly comfortable. Shoulder room is however at a premium, especially if you're of a bigger build. Those in the rear may feel they have to compromise their legroom somewhat.

The hatchback boot is quite shallow though regularly shaped and can accommodate 265 litres of luggage - a bit less than rivals.

Cabin styling is easy on the eye, if a tad sombre with plenty of dark surfaces brightened by flashes of red. The touch screen is centrally positioned and not the most user friendly device. Particularly awkward is the volume control for the radio/audio system - a vertical swipe. Maybe cause for attention on the new model...!

Special mention must be made of the ride which is among the best available in a small saloon - compliant and absorbent without a hint of wallowing and roll is kept to a minimum.