This is the new Suzuki Alto, latest of the ever-growing number of small cars primed to attract buyers changing down to smaller cars.

So it’s a city-sized five-door car, pulled along by a 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine. Fuel economy and exhaust emissions must be good for such a car to succeed. And while the car has yet to undergo official testing, Sukuzi is confident of CO2 emissions of 103g/km and up to 62.7mpg overall. The car is expected to rival models including the new Ford Ka, Hyundai's i10 and the Kia Picanto.

While previous generations of Altos have sparked criticism for their hqard, jolting ride, Sukui promises that the newcomer will keep it smooth, thanks to new suspension that’s had extensive testing on European roads.

The car will launch in the UK next Spring, and its model line-up and equipment levels haven’t been fixed yet. But Suzuki says six airbags are likely on top-end models, while an auto transmission will be offered as well as a five-speed manual gearbox.