Suzuki SplashAugust 2008

This is the second model to come off the Suzuki/Vauhall Agila production line, and other than there being the absence of a 1.0-litre entry model in the Splash line-up, there's not a lot to tell the two apart.

There are four models available in the Splash range, a 1.2 GLS and 1.2 GLS+ manual and a 1.2 GLS+ automatic option. The third engine is a 1.3-litre DDiS diesel unit. The 1.2-litre petrol is surprisingly nippy and its 84bhp packs plenty of punch for motorway driving, reaching 62mph in just over 12 seconds. Its also good fun around town and, despite its height, it doesn't suffer too much body roll. A diesel unit in this type of car rarely makes much sense as, although it will return around 62.8mpg and has low running costs, it's unlikely this will ever offset the higher initial price.

The Splash is a cute-looking car, with big wide-eyed headlights and split front grille. It's also noticeably tall, drawing on MPV-like styling cues to get the best use of interior space. And, like its Vauxhall twin, the Splash makes a very competent mini-MPV. There's a deceptive amount of interior space hidden within its small proportions and certainly taller adults won't struggle to get comfortable in the front or rear. For a small car, the Splash feels quite refined and whilst it suffers a little road and wind noise when at motorway speeds, it is nothing that the stereo won't mask.

Like its cousin, the Splash suffers from a rather plasticky, cheap-feeling dash, which is coupled with the same computer-game indicator noise as the Agila, and this only serves to cheapen the Splash's appeal. Although our test car was devoid of any creaks and rattles, only time would tell whether the Splash would suffer the same as the slightly higher mileage Agila we drove previously.

Although the Splash is a slightly pricier option than the equivalent Agila by around £100 - and the Agila has the benefit of a cheaper entry model - neither is particularly cheap in the wider scheme of things. The Splash does come well equipped - with all models receiving air con, leather steering wheel with audio controls, remote central locking and heated electric mirrors as standard - but for a more complete package the Fiat Panda is both cheaper and more stylish.