WHEN it comes to image and stature there are few marques to match the iconic badge of Alfa Romeo.

One of the most evocative models in the company's rich heritage is the car that brought Alfa motoring to the masses - the Giulietta, which made its debut back in 1954.

To celebrate Alfa's 100 anniversary in 2010 the Italians brought Romeo and Giulietta back into each other's arms in the shape of a sleek, sexy five-door hatchback.

This is a chic machine in every sense - from the trademark V-shaped grille and LED running lights to the taut, muscular lines and upmarket interior.

The line-up is powered by a trio of second generation MultiJet diesel engines and three petrol turbo units.

Strongest of the diesels is the 2.0-litre JTDm 170bhp, which powered a test model also featuring the most recent trim level - the new Sportiva grade which adds the likes of oversized red Brembo brake callipers mounted inside 18-inch spoke design alloy wheels with a dark titanium finish.

You also get sports leather upholstery, which looks fantastic in red, plus a rear armrest with storage compartment and sport kick plates, totalling £3,000 worth of luxury upgrades for an extra £1,860.

While the petrol models are terrific units in their own right, the pick of the range for my money is the higher powered of the two 2.0-litre diesel engines - an absolute stormer with 170bhp and headline figures of 0-62mph in 8.0 seconds and average fuel economy topping 60 miles per gallon.

Fuel-saving Start&Stop, which can be turned off by the driver, also comes as standard in a car that boasts a 5 Star Euro NCAP safety rating too.

The result is a Giulietta that's seriously rewarding car to drive and which benefits from a DNA set-up offering three distinct personalities tailored to driving style and road conditions.

A three-position switch near the gear lever alters throttle response and steering set-up for sporty Dynamic driving, everyday Normal motoring and All-weather low grip conditions.

The familiar Alfa trim grades of Turismo, Lusso, Veloce and performance-bred Cloverleaf are available as well as the new Sportiva, and all feature a fresh interior that leaves behind the heavy use of plastics for a gloss dash with metal effect inserts.

The aluminium billiard ball gearknob and drilled alloy pedals look the part and there's plenty of room for rear passengers provided the driver's seat isn't slid completely back, though the centre rear position is uncomfortable. The boot, at 350 litres, is adequate.

My only criticism is that there could be better stowage space for items like sunglasses and CDs.