Driven: Hyundai Amica 1.1 GSI – on sale now

The entry level Amica, was re-introduced to the Hyundai line up in March this year, with a restyled exterior and a new 1.1-litre engine, £5,990 price tag and Hyundai’s amazing five year unlimited mileage warranty.

The Amica is a doddle to drive: sensitive controls, great visibility and a high driving position help with manoeuvring and parking in tight spots. The 62bhp motor is also perfectly happy at motorway speeds.

Environmental issues are key to Hyundai with the new 1.1-litre engine dramatically reducing CO2 emissions from 146g/km to a more city friendly 128g/km.

Outside, the appearance is a bit of an acquired taste. Its tiny wheels, tall roofline and huge headlights give it a cartoon-like appearance that won’t appeal to everyone.

Inside is similarly quirky; the high driving position feels like you’re sitting on it rather than in it and, although there is plenty of headroom, the narrow body means driver and front seat passenger sit very close.

Good levels of basic equipment include electric windows, ABS, airbag and CD player. Overall, a budget city car offering everything you’d expect from its class.

Price: £5,990
Engines: 1.1-litre petrol, 62bhp @ 5,500rpm, 72lb ft @ 3,000rpm
Performance: 0-60mph 15.2sec, top speed 91mph
Transmission: Five-speed manual
Efficiency: 52.3mpg combined; 128g/km CO2
CAP RV 3yr/30k: £2,125 (36%)
Rivals: Kia Picanto, Peugeot 107, Citroën C1, Toyota Aygo, Daewoo Matiz
Strengths: Budget price, 5yr warranty
Weaknesses: Quirky looks
Opportunity: Environmental stats
Threat: Competition is high
USP: Affordable five-door city car