WE ALL like to enjoy the benefits of the odd compliment which are tossed our way, basking in the reflected glory of an ego-boosting remark which, not only makes you feel noticed, but, most importantly, wanted.
That feeling of neglect can even induce some to solicit praise about their looks - woe betide you, fellas, if you answer unconvincingly when your other half calls for recognition of her new hairdo, or asks, with a knowing twirl, "does this new two-piece suit me."
"Do I look good in this from the back?" is another old chestnut in the appearance stakes which I actually overheard recently at a dealership coming from a prospective lady buyer, anxiously checking out her street cred in the car of her choice!
One of the many cars which will answer this question in the affirmative is the Alfa Romeo 147 which arrived on the UK motoring scene at the beginning of 2001, replacing the ageing Alfa 145 and 146 models.
This stylish, sporting, small family hatchback oozes Italian design flair, with a neat and tidy rear end linking to a hugely attractive frornt end via neatly sculpted flanks and a sweetly swooping roofline.
Earlier this year, Alfa Romeo boosted its engine line-up in the 147 with the introduction of 1.9-litre turbo diesel power - an eight-valve 115bhp engine, designed to answer the ever-growing demand for more tax-efficient motoring.
Last month, Alfa upped the ante in the diesel power stakes, introducing the 16-valve JTD with more brake horsepower and outstanding levels of torque.
This Multijet turbodiesel does everything it says on the box, developing its persuasive 140bhp at 4,000rpm to whisk you and yours from 0-62mph in just over nine seconds, en route to a maximum speed, where legally allowable, of 129mph.
It also provides hugely impressive mid-range torque of 224lb ft at 2000rpm which makes for high engine flexibility at low speeds, giving the necessary overtaking power when needed without compromising the promise of 47.9mpg over the combined cycle and around the 60mpg mark on the extra-urban cycle.
All of this translates into eager response on the tarmac which, linked to the sophisticated underpinnings borrowed from the 156 and a smooth-slotting six-pack gearchange, provides a hugely enjoyable driving experience.
Handling is highly satisfying when linking together a series of bends - the 147 provides stacks of fun thanks to its excellent torsional stiffness and responsive power steering.
And, while this does result in a firmish but not unforgiving ride, overall refinement is good, with little noise intruding into the comfortable cabin, while ABS braking with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) provides a positive feel when needs must.
The 147 comes in two trim levels - Turismo and Lusso - both of which are generously endowed with standard kit which, in the Lusso includes electric windows all round, heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, "follow-me-home" headlights, multi function display and trip computer, automatic dual zone climate control, stereo radio/CD and cruise control.
There is also much to appreciate cabinside with the trim plastics and fabrics having that feel of quality, while another clever touch is the front and rear interior lighting, independently called in, dependent on which door you open.
Safety, too, has been well addressed with front, window and side airbags and while the 147 is not as roomy as some in the hatchback sector, particularly in the rear seats, the pop-up boot lid with no obvious door handle will prove a boon to car security.
The Alfa 147 has also borrowed the innovative "invisible" rear door handle look from the 156, while the chrome front door handles are definitely the focal point down the neatly-sculpted flanks.
Overall, the 147 1.9 JTD Lusso 16-valver is a hugely charismatic vehicle, well put together with a generous level of kit. A highly entertaining, sporty but frugal performer, which will always get you noticed, whether you happen to be fishing for compliments or not.
FAST FACTS
Alfa Romeo 147 1.9 JTD Lusso 16v
Price: £17,970
Mechanical: 140bhp, 1,910cc turbo diesel engine driving front wheels via 6-spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 129mph
0-62mph: 9.1secs
Combined mpg: 47.9
Insurance group: 12
CO2 emissions: 157g/km
BiK Rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 8yrs anti-rust; 3yrs paint