Mito

Its styling has been influenced by that of the Alfa 8C Competizione, with similar headlights, taillights and frameless side windows. Buyers will be given the option to personalise these details, with the choice of different materials and colours for the light surrounds. Alfa appears to have taken a forward-looking approach rather than simply trying to recreate the much-loved Alfasud - its last small hatch of this type. Alfa is fitting a new driver preferences system in the Mito, with selected modes for engine response, brakes, steering, suspension and transmission. The 'DNA' set-up will allow drivers to select 'Dynamic', 'Normal' and extra-traction 'All-Weather' modes, and it's the first such system in a car of this size

The Mito has a unique suspension system - Alfa promises 'maximum driving satisfaction in complete safety' - and minimal body roll. Standard equipment will include stability control, and Alfa is aiming for a five-star score in the Euro NCAP crash tests. Engines for the range will initially include petrols and diesels spanning 90-155bhp - expect the turbo 1.4 petrol as in the 500 Abarth as well as a selection of diesels - though more powerful versions, including a top-end GTA, will follow. Launch of the Mito takes place in June, with sales starting in mainland Europe from July. Right-hand-drive versions are expected to arrive in the UK in early 2009.