Vauxhall Agila (08 on) - Review

There are two petrol engines - 1.0-litre and a 1.2-litre, while the sole diesel is the 1.3 CDTi. Of the three, the 85bhp 1.2-litre is the best all-rounder. It's nippy, doesn't get left behind on the motorway and delivers decent fuel economy. The 1.0-litre – with its 65bhp power output – is only suitable for drivers who spend all their time in town. It feels reasonably lively in an urban environment and sounds eager enough, but struggles above 60mph and quickly loses speed on longer uphill stretches of road. The 75bhp 1.3 CDTi really only makes sense for very high mileage drivers (15,000-plus miles per year) as it costs more to buy. But otherwise it is a smooth and efficient diesel that's relaxed on the road, but with readily available performance if needed. A four-speed automatic gearbox is offered on the 1.2-litre while all other models are manual only.

The Agila is built for life in the city, so it's no surprise that this is where it's at its best. It lives up to its agile-sounding name with a very tight turning circle and light steering, which makes driving around town easy and squeezing into parking spaces a breeze. It's fine out of town, but as should be expected there is some bodyroll in corners. It's also acceptable for short motorway trips – although it takes a little while to get up to speed, it has little trouble staying there. Only a firm ride spoils what is otherwise an easy and comfortable car to drive.