The Swift Attitude is an appealing special edition which adds more visual punch to the Suzuki, but not at the expense of ride, economy or the fun factor of the regular version. Although it can’t match the Swift Sport for performance, it’s well made, reasonably equipped and represents good value. The brash styling won’t be to everyone’s taste, but for younger drivers who can’t afford to run a hot hatch it strikes an excellent balance.

If you can’t stretch to the £13,499 Swift Sport, the new Swift Attitude is a worthy alternative. The special edition is aimed at young, cost-conscious buyers who want the looks of a hot hatch without the associated running costs.

Only UK buyers will be able to get their hands on the Attitude, with just 500 cars set to go on sale. All are finished in Superior White paint, and have tinted rear windows and a carbon-look roof and mirrors. Black 16-inch alloy wheels and a bigger roof spoiler finish off the sporty makeover.

The Attitude is offered in a choice of three and five-door bodystyles, and based on the SZ3 trim level, which means it comes fitted with seven airbags, ABS and air-conditioning.

Other equipment includes electric windows and door mirrors, a USB port and supportive sports seats. Fit and finish is excellent throughout, with good- quality surfaces and hard-wearing black cloth trim on the seats.

The driving position is fine, with a well positioned gearstick, pedals and well weighted steering, although the steering wheel only adjusts for height. Power comes from a 92bhp 1.2-litre petrol engine, which is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. This car is no rocket, but the throttle is responsive and you can use all of the performance on public roads.

Wide tyres ensure it grips the road well, inspiring confidence in corners. The ride’s not too firm around town, either.

Best of all, it’s good value for money. If you order the same options on an SZ3, you’ll pay £935 more than the Attitude’s £10,750 asking price. Plus, both versions return 56.5mpg and 116g/km of CO2 (we managed a decent 49mpg during our test).

The Attitude takes a well made, well built supermini that’s fun to drive with low running costs, and adds boy racer looks. It might be too showy for some, but if that’s your thing, it’s well worth a look.