Small cars wearing big price tags are an automotive anomaly that certain European automakers can somehow manage without looking vacuous or overly ambitious. These economy-size models with business class equipment and first class aspirations are a pricey motoring extravagance scaled down to city car dimensions, perfectly and prettily.
Making top-quality compact cars that command a sizeable premium has been turned into an art form and a viable business by BMW’s MINI. Anything but miniature in its engineering and marketing, the iconic runabout banks on its fun, funk and kart-inspired handling. Even in the entry-level One model tested here, the modern MINI magic is obvious, albeit diluted in keeping with the One’s downsized price tag.
The smallest here (which would make it almost microscopic) in price and size is the Fiat 500. Like the MINI, this cheeky Italian number is a functional hatchback (the Panda in this case) wrapped in haute couture that harks back to its classic namesake rich in history. The hip Fiat is a bit cheaper than the cheapest MINI, without compromising on designer flair and on-board amenities.
The best equipped of the trio is the MiTo. It’s the baby of the Alfa Romeo range, but it boasts styling that is larger than life (courtesy of the spectacular 8C supercar it apes) and a driving package that is pure Alfa in spirit, apart from the humble Grande Punto underpinnings. The MiTo’s party trick is “DNA”, a dedicated rocker switch that quickly alters the characteristics of the engine, steering, suspension and traction aids between Dynamic, Normal and All weather modes (hence the clever “DNA” moniker).
Which of these adorable little hatches has the biggest personality and offers the greatest bang for the buck? Read on to discover the answer.
MITO – A flash of Alfa panache plus clean ergonomics, except the narrow footwell. Sportiest driving position and most supportive driver’s seat.
ONE – Offers the clearest outward visibility, the most comfortable environment and the relative best stowage of loose items. Seats flat but well sized.
500 – Lovely cockpit’s upright seating and handy driving controls encourage a tarmac-attack posture. No glovebox, but the doorbins are commodious.
