ALFA Romeo gave its upmarket hatchback, the 147, a major facelift earlier this year in an attempt to cash in on booming sales in its sector.
Launched in 2001, the 147 had been chosen by more than 400,000 buyers worldwide but newcomers on the scene, including the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series were set to eat into the 147's sales.
So the Italian manufacturer hit back by restyling the 147, upgrading the interior, revising the driving dynamics and offering new engines.
The best of the bunch appears to be the 147 JTD Lusso.
As far as styling goes, visual changes are good, with a new bonnet, front wings and front bumper giving a more dynamic front end.
The grille is bigger and placed lower than before and the restyled headlamps give the 147 a sportier look.
Interior changes are minor, but I like the new curved dashboard which now houses a single binnacle display containing the main instruments. The latest models also feature new instrument and control graphics, on a silver or black background for better clarity and legibility.
Driving position in the Alfa 147 is good with adjustments to seats easily attained.
Head and leg room in the back is nothing to shout about and it would be a bit of a squeeze to fit three adults in comfort.
Luggage space isn't the best in class, at 292 litres, but with the rear seats folded this increases to 1,042 litres.
Driving the 147 is a pleasant experience. The gutsy 120bhp turbo diesel unit is responsive with good torque for overtaking and gradients.
The five-speed gearbox is slick and positive but steering feel is on the light side. Otherwise the Alfa feels well planted on the tarmac and is sporty through bends.
Wind and road noise are reasonably well suppressed but could be improved.
As an overall package the Alfa diesel is an attractive proposition with good standard equipment, performance and economy.
The majority of miles during the test were at maximum motorway speeds, yet I still managed to get 45mpg out of the Italian machine, which is pretty impressive.
The Lusso specification 147 offers a goodly selection of equipment, including tinted windows, remote central locking, anti-lock brakes, follow-me-home headlights, alloys, electric windows, pollen filter, leather steering wheel with radio controls, trip computer, cruise control, front, side and window airbags, fog lights, electric headlamp adjustment and RDS radio with CD player and eight speakers.
FAST FACTS
Alfa Romeo 147 1.9 JTDm Lusso 5dr
Price: £16,910
Mechanical: 120bhp, 1,910cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 120mph
0-62mph: 9.6 secs
Combined mpg: 48.7
Insurance group: 12
CO2 emissions: 153g/km
BiK rating: 17%
Warranty: 3 yrs/ 60,000 miles; 3yrs paint; 8yrs anti-rust