IF there's a model that has proved a clear winner of the generation game it's the Ford Fiesta.
In fact you would probably struggle to find a family that hasn't had some connection with Britain's most popular small car over the past three decades.
More than 12 million Fiestas have been sold during that time and the oil-burning version beat 26 rivals to the accolade of What Diesel? Car of the Year 2009.
Latest generation models come packed with standard kit and are stylishly designed, have an upmarket feel and boast more space than any of their predecessors.
Most striking though is the quality of the Ford's interior. The finish is ultra modern as is the design of the instruments - inspired by a mobile phone keypad - and all models have an information display screen.
We really are talking big car refinement - and that goes for the car's overall build too - without the associated running costs.
The cabin layout is simple and straightforward, driving position excellent and everything is well tuned to everyday motoring.
The only criticism is that the high slanting rear windows and headrests on the front seats create a blind spot on either side.
Out on the road the Fiesta is a treat to drive - nippy and responsive around town, easy to park, smooth and rock solid at the legal limit on the motorway.
You have to be careful which version to go for though. The base level 1.25 Studio three-door model offers plenty of metal for the money at £11,295 while both the 1.4 and 1.6 TDCi diesels are strong engines.
The 1.4 petrol automatic in high spec Titanium trim didn't impress me as being value for money.
Its basic price tab of £15,545 is worrying enough, but a few extra bits like curtain airbags (£250), Electronic Stability Programme (£300), Bluetooth handsfree (£200), seven-spoke alloys (£100) and another 50 quid for driver's seat lumbar support and you're looking at a whopping £16,454 for a Ford Fiesta.
There will always be people who understandably prefer automatic transmission. The four-speed box on this car however is more frustrating than useful and I found myself using the manual shifts rather than let the system decide when to change up and down.
The automatic is also slower, uses more fuel and emits more CO2 than the equivalent manual version - yet costs the same as a flagship Titanium Individual model that has soft leather seats with inserts that match the dash and steering wheel.
FAST FACTS
Ford Fiesta 1.4 Titanium auto
Price: £15,545
Mechanical: 96ps, 1,388cc 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 4-speed automatic gearbox
Max speed: 103mph
0-62mph: 13.9 seconds
Combined mpg: 43.4
Insurance group: 4
CO2 emissions: 154g/km
BiK rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles