WITH most city cars all you get is a tiny three door hatch with just about enough rear legroom for a shrink-wrapped wombat.
But if you want a small car with space for four and five doors, the Chevrolet Matiz is the one to go for.
The entry 800cc model has slightly cheaper insurance, but the best value and performance comes from the one-litre SE.
It still only costs around £6,800 and can just about keep up at motorway speeds - which some others cannot.
The engine is reasonably smooth and quiet, the clutch is light, the gearchange precise and the power steering gives plenty of help at slow speeds and good feel too.
Handling is safe and sticky, although there is some roll, and the ride is very good for a small car, taking most of the rough roads in town in its stride.
Wind and road noise are both quite noticeable, but are not too intrusive.
Interior
The driving position is reasonably comfortable for most people, thanks to a height adjustable driver's seat, and reliability is good.
But the cabin's narrow width means driver and front passenger have to be quite friendly, and tall people can be short of headroom in the back.
The boot is fair and the rear seat split folds, but add extra security, which is hopeless.
FAST FACTS
Chevrolet Matiz 1.0 SE 5dr
Price: £6,845
Mechanical: 65bhp, 995cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 97mph
0-62mph: 14.1 secs
Combined mpg: 50.4
Insurance group: 2
CO2 emissions: 139g/km
BiK rating: 15%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 5yrs paint, 6yrs anti-rust
Marks: 9/10
Main rival: Hyundai Amica, Daihatsu Charade.