Alfa Romeo MiTo Cloverleaf hatchback (2010 – ) expert review

1. Exterior

Taking its inspiration from the Alfa Romeo 8C supercar, the hot MiTo keeps the same striking teardrop front headlights and circular tail lamps as the standard car. At the nose the petite triangular grille sets it apart from the Renaultsport Clio, with its large horizontal grilles. It’s a delicate shape, which wouldn’t respond well to big wings and side skirts. Traditional Alfa Cloverleaf badges on the front wings, 17-inch alloy wheels and twin exhaust tips nod to its enhanced performance.

Our rating: 4

2. Interior

There’s design flair here, from the attractive three-spoke steering wheel to the carbon fibre effect dashboard. There are racey white dials with rev gauge graphics increasing in size towards the redline, and a large display dominates the centre console, and features clear and attractive graphics when used as a media player and sat-nav. Leather seats add extra style which suits the MiTo’s character perfectly. Only the Audi A1 and Volkswagen Polo GTI beat it for cabin quality.

Our rating: 4

3. Practicality

Rear passengers will be cramped, but it still beats its MINI Hatchback rival hands down in this respect. There are no plans for a five-door version and rear visibility out of the small rear window is poor. The boot has a very small opening, but holds a respectable 270 litres of luggage, more than a MINI or SEAT Ibiza SC three-door. Interior storage is limited, with a small glovebox, door pockets and a cup holder in front of the gear lever.

Our rating: 3

4. Ride and handling

The DNA driving mode selector makes the steering light in normal mode, and heavier when dynamic is selected and firms up the suspension. In both modes the steering feels accurate but artificial, with less feedback than the MINI. In normal mode the suspension offers good comfort for a hot hatch, making longer trips more relaxing than expected. Handling is good, with lots of grip, and compares well with the Citroen DS3, while being nowhere near as feisty as the Clio Renaultsport.

Our rating: 3

5. Performance

The star of the Alfa Romeo MiTo Cloverleaf is its 1.4-litre turbocharged heart. With 170bhp it makes the MiTo effortlessly quick, and has a pleasing exhaust note to boot. From a standstill it will reach 62mph in 7.5 seconds and hit 136mph. And, while these figures are slower than the non-turbo Clio, its low-down urge makes it feel just as quick in many driving situations. Only the DNA system frustrates, its normal setting making the throttle feel far too unresponsive and lazy, while the dynamic mode has the opposite effect and sees the car take off like a scalded cat with the slightest throttle.

Our rating: 4

6. Running costs

Considering its performance, the MiTo Cloverleaf is remarkably fuel efficient, managing an average fuel consumption of 47.1mpg, while emitting only 139g/km of CO2. To get such good economy requires a delicate right foot, but even so it’s impressively economical for a hot hatch and is cheap to tax. Start and stop technology is fitted as standard. It’s both cleaner and more economical than the MINI Cooper S.

Our rating: 4

7. Reliability

The MiTo proved solid and reliable during our test, and Alfa Romeo is well on the way to improving its reputation for poor reliability. The model has not been subject to any manufacturer recalls.

Our rating: 3

8. Safety

The MiTo is one of the safest superminis and scored the top five-stars when crash tested by EuroNCAP. There are seven airbags and active head restraints, while Vehicle Dynamic Control, traction control and Cornering Brake Control help to prevent skids.

Our rating: 5

9. Equipment

The Alfa Romeo MiTo Cloverleaf is fitted with Blue&Me Bluetooth technology and allows mobile phone, MP3 player and USB memory stick connections. Air-con and heated door mirrors are also standard. Rear parking sensors, cruise control, electric folding door mirrors and steering wheel-mounted controls are cost options.

Our rating: 4

10. Why buy?

As well as having great looks, the MiTo Cloverleaf boasts a fine engine, which is powerful, smooth and economical.

Our rating: 4