There are just two engines available – a 70bhp 1.2-litre and a 92bhp 1.4. The lower-powered engine is good for town work, but becomes rather stressed on the motorway – especially if the car has a full load. The 1.4-litre does a better job as an all-rounder, as it’s more than adequate for nipping about and can hold its own at higher speeds. It could do with a bit more zip for overtaking, but is more than acceptable for everyday needs.

Expect to get 42mpg in normal driving from the 1.2-litre and around 40mpg from the 1.4-litre.

While not offering an exciting drive, the Kalos does offer a painless one. It’s no sports car – there’s little feedback from the steering or brakes, but neither are they unpredictable. Roadholding in the dry is good, and Kalos feels grippy and nimble, although not up to the standards set by the best small cars such as the Ford Ka or Suzuki Swift. In the wet it feels less confident.

Body roll is evident and can be off-putting into fast corners. Ride is pretty good, if a little bouncy, on all surfaces.