Used buyer's guide: Alfa Romeo MiTo pictures

Inside, the MiTo is as neatly styled as outside, so it feels sporty. Build quality is good, but the cabin is cramped and, with no five-door option, rear seat access is awkward. Boot space is adequate, at 290 litres, yet not every model

Some owners have reported issues with paint chipping and scratching easily. The flat red finish on early models seems most prone to this.

First gear can be difficult to select, especially on low-mileage cars where the box has yet to loosen up. Double-declutching helps.

Many MiTo wheel nuts start corroding after just a few months; in some cases, owners have found them rusting after just a fortnight.

Expect 15,000 miles or so from the front tyres. Good-quality rubber and correct pressures will make a big difference to the car’s handling.