Fiat’s ‘big’ Punto represents a clever design twist – fashioning the front of the vehicle to look a little like a Maserati makes  it seem bigger and more spacious, whilst retaining the compact overall dimensions of this nifty little number’s predecessor, the Punto. This model is distinguished by not looking like all those other little boxes on wheels chugging around Europe. Italian panache and flair shines through in the eye-catching design of this car, making it truly stand out in the crowd. By some curious alchemy, the car’s elegance never conflicts with its obvious robustness.

Unlike many small cars, it manages to drive smoothly at motorway speeds and handles with admirable responsiveness in ordinary driving conditions. Fiat always offers a plethora of different engine sizes and types. The best advice is to opt for the diesel models, and an optimal one might be the 1.9 litre, 130 bhp multijet, which combines impressive acceleration with respectable fuel economy. Unlike just about all other small hatchbacks, the Punto Grande amply demonstrates that a small car does not have to be a cramped car, and it sports generous leg room and boot space.

You will not really feel like James Bond gliding his Aston toward the best hotel in town, but you will feel more than a touch of verve and excitement on your way to either your next meeting or the shopping mall.