46: Suzuki Swift – cute, fun and cracking value

The 2005 Suzuki Swift, borrowing its name from a succession of bland and forgettable eighties and nineties hatchbacks, was a revelation. Pugnacious of appearance, and engaging of chassis, it became a go-to car for those looking for Mini-like dynamics, without the premium costs.

This latest Swift picks up that baton and really does run with it. The styling is recognisably derived from that 2005 original, but the new Swift is a little larger (which is massively to the benefit of cabin space, which now borders on being XL) and much more sophisticated.

It can be had with an excellent mild hybrid system which augments the performance of the excellent little 1.0-litre BoosterJet engine, yet which also helps to save fuel.

The Swift’s handling remains as engaging as ever (although the steering feel as fallen back a little and the ride remains a touch too firm) and given its likely reliability prospects, it makes for a tempting alternative to the supermini norm.