THE Audi A2 is the Wayne Rooney of the Superminis. Both are relatively young, aggressive and they're not exactly easy on the eye! But once they get going... Wow!
The German-built car and the English superstar are exceptionally powerful for their size and boast exhilarating acceleration which turns plenty of heads when in full flow.
They can also run all day because they have seemingly never-ending reserves in their fuel tanks.
The Audi supermini was launched just over four years ago and since then its sales have continued to rise year on year. I can see why after spending a week test driving this super little city car.
I'm told the A2 is the only volume production vehicle to feature a bodyshell built entirely from aluminium, reducing its weight by over 40 per cent compared to an equivalent steel-bodied car.
Combined with very low drag, this brings benefits in ride comfort, handling, performance and fuel economy - a remarkable 65mpg for my 1.4 TDI SE model. Its 90bhp engine also has low CO2 emissions of 116g/km.
The acceleration figure of 0 to 62 mph in just over 12 seconds - and top speed of 107 mph - is also respectable for a supermini.
The pedal power at your disposal is perfect for tackling the mean city streets with its busy junctions and 'see a gap and go for it' roundabouts.
As I mentioned, the A2 may not win too many awards for its looks - it's somewhat squat and ungainly in appearance.
Yet once inside, the cabin is surprisingly spacious. The seats are comfortable and the classy aluminium-finished dials and CD stereo look, and sound, good.
But there was one major gripe. Sit in the driver's seat and the large windscreen affords you a clear view of the road ahead.
Trouble is, a sporty-looking spoiler sits on the rear window which, combined with the back seat headrests, almost totally blocks your rear view.
Standard kit for the A2 includes remote central locking, electric front windows and alloy wheels. For the SE models add climate control, 15-inch alloy wheels, leather gearstick and steering wheel - and a luggage compartment cover for the fairly spacious boot.
Handling is excellent with responsive steering and great cornering, making this little car a real pleasure to drive.
There may be better looking superminis out there. But for my money the Audi A2 - like the young Manchester United star - leaves most of its rivals standing.
FAST FACTS
Audi A2 1.4 TDI SE
Price: £13,695
Mechanical: 90bhp, 1,422cc, 3cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 107mph
0-62mph: 12.3 secs
Combined mpg: 64.2
Insurance group: 5
CO2 emissions: 116g/km
BiK rating: 15%
Warranty: 3 years/ 60,000 miles; 3 years paint; 12 years anti-rust