Car Statistics: Proton - Savvy Series 06 (1 star)

Styling (3 stars)

Front works very well indeed, but results progressively worsen as you move rearwards. Tail belongs to a different car.

Handling (1 star)

Poor due to woefully soft suspension, leading to lots of body motion and roll during even the mildest manoeuvres. Low-geared steering is a good thing, given how squidgy it is.

Comfort (2 stars)

Very low-speed ride shows absorbency, but wallowing motion as speeds rise spoils benefits. Loud engine noise further knocks refinement.

Quality (1 star)

Dreadful - from the poor quality paint finish to the lowest-bidder plastics and exposed screwheads of the interior.

Performance (1 star)

Noisy engine a reluctant performer. On-paper figures not bad (0-62 mph in 13.9 seconds) - but achieving them is an exercise in mechanical unsympathy.

Roominess (2 stars)

Roomy up front thanks to high-set seats, but the plunging roofline spoils rear comfort. Boot larger than city car rivals, but too small for a supermini.

Costs (3 stars)

Decent economy by modern standards, although the 9000 mile service intervals will grow irksome for anyone using a Savvy for more than gentle town use. Insurance high compared to Group 1 rivals.

Value (2 stars)

Costing nearly the same as the vastly superior Kia Picanto makes the Savvy look like poor value, despite its low, low pricetag.

Stereo (2 stars)

A smart looking CD stereo is standard, but sound quality is let down by some very poor speakers. Large buttons make it easy to operate, though.