GET READY FOR IGNISION

Few budget cars get us fired up like this tenacious little Suzuki

- SAM PHILLIPS

Compactness, efficiency and big value for money are all hallmarks of the Suzuki Ignis - and this quirky little hatchback goes several steps further than that, earning its SUV-esque styling by being a competent soft-roader with the option of four-wheel drive.

When launched in 2017, the segment-blending Ignis cost just £9999 in its cheapest, front-wheel-drive form - and now you can pay as little as £4500 for one.

Most examples at the cheaper end of the spectrum are powered by a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, which makes 89bhp and 88lb ft of torque for a 0-60mph time of 11.1sec.

These performance stats sound rather staid, but in the main the Ignis has more than enough poke and is untroubled when pushed hard. Sure, it takes its time to hit the redline, but the five-speed manual gearbox is precise and adds to what is a pleasant driving experience.