ALFA Romeo has announced that the order book is open for its new MiTo model from the beginning of November even though potential punters will not get the chance to drive it for a couple of months.
The car does not go on sale in Britain until the middle of January but in order to boost interest before then, every UK dealer will display one in their showroom, although the cars are described as static displays and will not be registered.
Alfa is keen to bring the car to the attention of the public as soon as possible because the company believes it has finally achieved a credible replacement for the iconic Alfa Sud.
This was the model that set new standards in small car design and driving dynamics but has not been equalled by the Italians since.
The MiTo aims to change that and is claiming features and technology not currently available in the small car segment. These include rear LED lights and a special electronic control system called DNA, which translates into Dynamic, Normal and All-Weather.
This adjusts the response of the car depending on driving style and conditions.
Such is the expected desirability of the newcomer that CAP Black Book is predicting a retained value after three years of 47 per cent for the 1.3-litre diesel model, which is unheard of for a small Alfa.
Prices will start at £10,975 for the 95bhp 1.4-litre Turismo petrol model, with first deliveries due on January 24.