I used to own a Fiat Cinquecento. There, I’ve said it. I loved its spirit and determination, but I was often left to rue the lack of horsepower when I had to tackle anything more challenging than a dropped kerb. The 899cc engine would quickly run out of steam, forcing me to change down a couple of gears to maintain forward momentum. Even so, I was still sad to wave it farewell after it fared badly against a Mitsubishi Galant in a competition for the same piece of tarmac.

The Seat Mii brought all those happy memories - and concerns - came flooding back. I needn't have worried, however, because car manufacturers have used the last 20-or-so years wisely and, unlike my Cinquecento, it goes up hills almost as well as it goes down them.

The line-up has been simplified for the 2018 model year with two grades, Design and FR-Line, one body style – five doors – and one engine that, in the Design-spec car that I tested, is available with a modest 60PS. The FR-Line model boosts power to 75.

The list of standard equipment is a comprehensive one, with air con, six-speaker audio system, SD card slot and USB socket, electric front windows and speed sensitive power steering. The infotainment system is replete with a colour screen, Bluetooth audio streaming and handsfree calling full smartphone integration with a universal phone cradle and the Drive Mii app with TomTom satellite navigation, trip computer, Eco Trainer to encourage efficient driving style and in-phone media and radio control. The specification also runs to electrically adjustable, heated door mirrors and leather steering wheel and gear knob trim.

The styling incorporates Seat's arrow head design seen on other models in the maker's range. The Mii was developed alongside VW's up! and Skoda's Citigo which means that efforts to differentiate the three versions are largely limited to front and rear lights, grille and, of course, character.

Seat have attempted to inject some youthful vitality into the Mii, something that sets it apart from the more mature up! and, to a large degree, have succeeded. We're only talking small differences here, but they all add up to a fun and entertaining steer.

It's agile with light but accurate steering. The tyres on the handsome 14-inch alloys hang on gamely through the corners and the Mii changes direction willingly. The ride is composed, the suspension easily smoothing out small imperfections while the impact from larger bumps is softened admirably.

Given the lack of cladding on the doors it was a pleasant surprise to discover that the Mii is relatively refined on the motorway. The only complaint is tyre roar, which becomes noticeable as speeds increase but, overall, the Mii is almost as adept over longer distances as it is on the streets of our towns and cities.

The engine produces a typically rorty note at high revs which, while clearly audible in the cabin is not too invasive and, to these old ears at least, quite entertaining while it's near silent at low speeds.

The gearbox proved to be a bit obstructive occasionally, particularly when searching for first, but those rare moments aside it was nice and smooth while the ratios were perfectly matched to the little three-cylinder engine.

If driving economically is your thing, then the manufacturer's quoted figure of 70.6mpg is entirely within reach as I discovered on a drive back from Hastings.

The interior, while basic, is impeccably put together. The switchgear is all laid out logically, keeping the learning curve to a minimum. The height-adjustable steering wheel has a comfortable, sporty feel to it and all the controls are neatly packaged within easy reach.

The sound system is surprisingly good, boosted in no small part by the car's compact dimensions. Nonetheless it was possible to 'pump up the bass' without distorting the output.

There’s no disguising the fact that the Mii is a small car but designers have done a good job of making the most of the space available. It’s entirely possible to accommodate four adults, though whether those in the back would claim to be entirely comfortable is another matter. The rear bench has been positioned 72 mm higher than the front seats to provide more light and a clearer view for passengers in the rear.

The front seats are comfortable and supportive and, in combination with the height-adjustable steering wheel, offer enough flexibility that even big old lumps like me can find a decent driving position.

There is ample storage for oddments: the door panels can hold one-litre bottles, there are two cup holders in the front and two in the rear, a coat hook on the B-pillar, and the glove box has specific recesses for items such as coins, notepads and pens.

Even with four passengers on board, there is a decent 251 litres of boot space – more than some hatchbacks from the segment above – and quickly flipping the rear seats forward frees up an impressive 951 litres, easily accessible through the wide-opening hatch and low loading lip. A split-level floor system can create a loadspace that sits flush with the boot, making loading and unloading smaller items that little bit easier.

The Mii makes a strong case for itself in the city car segment. It’s well built, great value and no small amount of fun. It’s closest rivals are, of course, its sister cars from VW and Skoda, the up! and Citigo and the differences between the three are so small that choice might simply come down to the distance to the nearest dealership.

One thing is certain, the Mii won’t disappoint.

Seat Mii Design 5dr 1.0 60PS 5-speed manual

Price: £10,560

As tested: £12,080

Engine: 1.0-litre 3-cylinder

Torque: 70lbft

Acceleration (0-62mph): 14.4 seconds

Maximum speed: 99mph

Urban: 51.4mpg

Extra urban: 74.3mpg

Combined: 64.2mpg

Emissions (CO2): 102g/km

For more information about Seat cars click here.