Alfa myth continues with the new MiTo

The Alfa Romeo model range has been expanding and improving of late. There are now seven models with a huge variety of specifications to choose from. The new MiTo, the 147, the GT, the 159, the 159 Sportwagon, the Brera and the lovely Spider. Alfa"s latest new car is the interesting new MiTo, which sits below the 147 as the entry to the line-up. The base model 1.4 16v Turismo costs just €18,995 and engine options range from 1.4 petrol, 1.3 JTDM diesel and 1.4 Turbo petrol to 1.6 JTDM diesel. Diesel engines offer great torque, allowing them to pull well from low speeds, offer great miles per gallon and now also plenty of performance. So how about this diesel Alfa Romeo Mito 1.3 JTDM? I must confess to a certain bias when writing about Alfa Romeo. For years I"ve loved its cars. Back in the days of the Alfasud, the rear wheel drive GTV 3.0 and the Alfa Spirit I was a devoted fan. For me Alfa symbolises a flair, spirit and dynamism that few manufacturers can emulate, even today. Despite their vices over the years (and we all know they had many) I am still a fan. The three-door MiTo is a pretty funky looking machine with swooping lines and a distinctive front end with large bug eye type headlights. It certainly generated plenty of attention during the test. The cabin is beautifully laid out and well finished. Recognising criticisms of the past, Alfa has paid great attention to build quality and the result is a car with loads of Italian flair but with build and quality that are reminiscent of a premium German brand. The chunky multi-function steering wheel, sports seats, comprehensive instrumentation and great specification immediately impress. The MiTo comes standard with ABS, VDC with hill holder, multiple airbags including knee airbags, a vehicle dynamic control switch which boots power and responsiveness as well as giving the steering a more positive feel and a host of the usual electrics including an innovative alcohol tester kit that allows the driver to see if he or she may be over the limit for driving. The driving position is good, aided by the supportive sports seats. Performance The test car was powered by the 1.3 litre JTDM diesel engine. What a revelation! This is a truly superb unit. Power output is a beefy 90bhp yet emissions are just 119g/km, putting it in the VRT band A with an annual road tax of just €104. This lively unit is mated to a nice six-speed gearbox with well chosen ratios making the best of the high torque and producing lively acceleration. Choosing the dynamic mode via the selector switch makes every thing truly come alive with more rapid acceleration and a sportier feel, yet the new MiTo is mean on the diesel burning just 6.1 litres per 100km. The suspension set-up is a perfect combination between sporting handling and comfortable ride. The MiTo is great fun to drive in an involving sort of way that you just don"t expect from a small car. Levels of refinement are high with wind, road and engine noise all well suppressed. Prices start at €18,995 for the 1.4 petrol Turismo rising to €25,045 for the 1.4 TB 155bhp Veloce. The Alfa Romeo MiTo is a superb car that rewards with an involving driving experience, excellent build quality and a dynamic individual style - but it is truly economical to own and run. In short the new Alfa MiTo is one of the best small cars on the market today.