Fiat Bravo

A fast-rejuvenating Fiat instigated a crash-programme to replace the Stilo, and this far prettier Bravo is arguably the most handsome car in the category.

Though many core parts are similar, it has had extensive improvements to body strength - it wins the full five NCAP crash protection stars - to its suspension, engine range and standard of finish. Which is obvious, immediately you climb inside, a combination of stylish textures, unusually attractive instruments and attractive trim making this interior very appealing. It's spacious too, with four-way adjustable wheel and height adjustable seat. The boot is well-shaped and sized, and there's reasonable space for oddments inside, including a tray that will take your mobile.

The most intriguing engine in the range is the T-Jet, a petrol engine that might only be a 1.4 litre but can be had with either 120bhp or 150bhp. And the 150 goes very well indeed, delivering performance almost worthy of a hot hatch, and for a very attractive price. It sounds sporty when revved and quietens at a cruise to give this car more character than most in the class. The engine is smaller than usual as part of a trend towards so-called downsizing, the aim being to offer strong performance with superior economy and emissions. The Bravo offers a fine blend of acceleration and fuel efficiency. Like all the engines, bar the basic 1.9 turbo diesel, this drives a six-speed gearbox for better economy and quieter cruising with a smooth clutch.

There's also the new 'Eco' version too, which comes in both Active and Dynamic trim. It's essentially the 105bhp 1.6-litre Multijet engine coupled with a special Eco-pack. In addition to revised ECU settings, the Eco pack incorporates optimised aerodynamics coupled with low rolling resistance tyres and taller gear ratios. The result is excellent fuel economy and CO2 figures. On the combined cycle it claims 62.8mpg and CO2 emissions are a congestion-charge-exempt 119g/km.

Wheelspin is limited in the wet by traction control and it hangs on very well and remains reassuringly composed over challenging bends. And it rides well too, even with the suspension's sporty firmness.

The enthusiasm of the 150bhp T-Jet engine makes this the most characterful version of the Bravo, especially as this car is good-looking both outside and in, although the 1.9 Multijet 150 diesel offers a fine blend of performance and economy - along with its value for money. If you like its look and are attracted by its value, this Fiat makes quite a pleasing buy - and huge improvement over the Stilo.

STYLING
This could well be the best-looking car in the class - well-proportioned, almost coupe-like lines, handsome detailing and a little Italian sexiness make this an appealing car.

HANDLING AND COMFORT
Good roadholding and predictable handling that's agile enough to make the quick versions fun. Offering multiple wheel and seat adjustability, it's civilised on a motorway cruise, and the ride is comfortable.

QUALITY and RELIABILITY
Bravo is durable in use and the quality of materials is much better than before. The Bravo has an aura of robustness not felt in a Fiat of this size for decades.

PERFORMANCE
All Bravo are brisk to quick, and even the cheapest version isn't slow. The T-Jet 150 petrol and Multijet 150 diesel are particularly strong performers, and the six-speed gearbox provided on all but the lower-powered diesel is nice bonus.

ROOMINESS
There's decent space for a car in this class. The boot is big and well-shaped, and there's plenty of cabin stowage, including cup-holders and a mobile tray.

VALUE FOR MONEY
The Bravo is keenly priced and offers plenty of performance for your money with the T-Jet models. All models come very well equipped. There are currently huge discounts on Bravos from Fiat making the Bravo unbeatable in this department.

STEREO / SAT NAV
The in-built stereo is attractive, easy to use and puts out a good sound. Sat Nav is available on some models.

ENVIRONMENT
The T-Jet versions of the Bravo have new, so-called downsized, turbocharged engines intended to offer superior economy, emissions and performance for their size. The performance is there, and economy is good too.