Instant desirability is a commodity in short supply in the family hatchback sector. These cars major on common sense rather than sassiness, but the Fiat Bravo offers some real eye candy. Add that to an unsurpassable build quality and some great power-plants and you have a very strong proposition.

Styling will only get you so far if the car drives poorly. Several manufacturers have found this at their expense but the Bravo comes up trumps on that score. It’s not far off the class leaders when it comes to sharp handling through a series of twists and the selection of engines is, by and large, better than the more obvious engine offerings.

Keeping all this in mind, treat yourself this Christmas; UCIM Co Ltd are offering the Fiat Bravo starting from only e16,400 (LM7,040) on the 1.4L Active 5-door and a cash discount from up to e1,000 valid until 20 December 2009, or until stocks last.