Vauxhall's first Viva model was produced between 1963 and 1979, but now there is an all-new Viva, a delightful stylish small hatchback priced from just £7,995.

With a 74hp three-cylinder petrol engine and a five speed manual gearbox, new Viva quickly impresses with its chic styling, an easy-driving feel, and a decent amount of standard equipment.

My test model was the entry level 5-door SE model, which comes with stability and traction controls, speed-sensitive power steering with City Mode, cruise control, daytime running lights, lane departure warning, front, side and curtain airbags, tyre pressure monitoring, power front windows and door mirrors, multi-function trip computer, and steering wheel-mount audio controls. That’s great spec for under £8,000. You don’t get air-con or alloy wheels, Bluetooth or a USB port, but you can upgrade to the SL model to get those.

The engine is an eager smoothrevving and quiet unit and the gearshift is slick and accurate, so the overall driving feel is very pleasant. The suspension set-up ensures a comfy ride and decent grip and composure on the corners.

The 0-60 mph time of 13.1 seconds is typical of class standards, so too the 106 mph top speed. But most buyers of this perky little hatchback will have their eye on the fuel economy figure and at 62.8 mpg combined, they will be impressed. The Viva interior is welldesigned, looks smart and has a perception of a level of quality above its class status. The dashboard is straightforward in layout and easy to familiarise. Seating is supportive and there is plenty of room for the front occupants. Rear seats offer adequate accomodation and the boot space (206 litres) is also typical of the small-hatch sector. On the plus side, the rear seats do drop down almost flat, unlike many in this price category.

In a crowded hatchback sector, the Viva stands out as a true valuefor- money buy. Expect to see a lot on our roads very soon!