DRIVERS are downsizing and desiring diesels, so the arrival of the Mitsubishi Colt DI-D could not have been timed better.
Although this is the sixth generation of the Colt series, it is the first to be produced in the joint venture with DaimlerChrysler which also created the smart forfour.
After a slow start when the new Colt range was launched in September 2004, demand is picking up well and the introduction of the DI-D will accelerate sales, particularly with its low running costs.
Sold with three or five doors and a choice of manual or automatic transmission, the 1.5 DI-D comes in just one trim level which includes alloys, powered windows, central locking, air conditioning, power steering, anti-lock brakes and leather detailing inside.
You can specify an electric sunroof and, while an immobiliser is standard, an alarm is a dealer fit option.
The engine is a neat and lively unit with strong pulling power but it sounds noisy and even rough at higher revolutions so its best kept to under 4,000rpm.
There's a light clutch and the gearchange has an easy, direct action with ratios which give respectable acceleration in traffic and allow composed motorway progress and very economical overall consumption.
The brakes have good feel but need a fair amount of pressure for rapid deceleration while the steering is good for parking without being too light on twisting roads.
I like the layout of the minor controls and the very colourful and clear instruments. Oddments room is very good throughout the cabin and the small boot can be usefully increased as the rear seats actually slide forward on their own runners. It is a very practical and useful feature which must be copied by others in future.
The rear seat room varies as a result and those in front have a good range of adjustment as well, while all get a lot of headroom. The seats are on the small side but fairly comfortable unless you need a lot of leg support which is lacking.
Ride quality is very good for a small car, only the worst potholes making any impression. Handling is a little soft and light at the front, but the roadholding is good.
Visibility is very good and I liked the ability to see all the corners when parking.
On the road the Colt diesel keeps up with traffic without a problem and the slightly taller than usual driving position means you can see more of the road ahead and can anticipate overtaking opportunities or react quicker if traffic is about to slow down.
In this way, good progress can be maintained and the lack of power is less of a nuisance, although many may say it is good for a small car.
However, load it with five people and the engine and gearbox have to work hard and this hits performance and economy.
Overall, though, the Colt DI-D has a surprising amount of character.
FAST FACTS
Mitsubishi Colt 1.5 DI-D Equippe 5dr
Price: £10,999
Mechanical: 94bhp, 1,493cc, 3cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 112mph
0-62mph: 11 secs
Combined mpg: 58.9
Insurance group: 5
CO2 emissions: 126g/km
BiK rating: 15%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage; 6yrs paint; 6yrs anti-rust