Just one engine is available in the Pixo – a 1.0-litre petrol with a modest 68bhp. It’s the same unit from the Suzuki Alto with the same performance and economy. 0-62mph takes 13.5 seconds while the top speed is 96mph. The engine is a three-cylinder and has a characteristic sound, it’s also nippy around town, helped by the positive shift of the five-speed manual gearbox.

Joining fast flowing traffic isn’t easy though, as the engine lacks pulling power and although it copes adequately once up to motorway speeds, the Pixo often feels strained. A four-speed automatic gearbox is available and it works quite well with the modest power, however acceleration is considerably slower and economy drops from 64mpg to 54mpg.

The small Pixo is designed for driving in towns and cities and that’s evident in its light steering, good all round visibility and easy manoeuvrability. Zipping in and out of traffic is a doddle thanks to decent acceleration from a standstill while parallel parking is made easy by a near vertical rear end. At higher speeds the lack of refinement and noise insulation is apparent and the Pixo often feels quite lightweight, however the ride quality is impressive and deals easily with rough or uneven road surfaces.

In corners it feels composed but lacks the fun factor that other small cars are able to offer.