The signs are there : wheels on its corners and a super-light kerb weight

The Japanese have admired European culture since forever.

The mere fact you see heaps of left-hand drive European cars in right-hand drive Japan speaks volumes about their obsession.

In turn, Japan’s own domestic product is often inspired by Europe. The Suzuki Alto Lapin hybrid city car – Lapin French for Rabbit – is one such example.

Firstly, takes its name from Europe. Secondly, there’s the styling: a Mini-esque roofline stolen directly from the British design playbook; coupled with detail, considered material selection and craft.

Its tweed seat fabric feels like your partner’s favourite jacket and the rest of the interior is a palette of off-whites and vintage typefaces. Clever storage has been integrated into the dashboard, so you’ll find pull-out cup holders and nifty storage trays in seemingly-obvious places.

Underneath the vintage styling and clever interior design lies a dependable Japanese Suzuki Alto hybrid kei car; which means reliability, quality and fuel efficiency are its best traits.

The second row is actually quite spacious too, and will happily fit either four six-foot adults, or two adults and two children in child seats. The second row features ISOFIX child seat anchor points.

Behind all the action is a boot is big enough for your fortnightly grocery shop. Over time you’ll come to love its little luxuries like heated seats, keyless entry and full LED headlights.

Then, you’ll wonder why it’s taken you so long to get car that’s fun to drive, fun to look at, and fun to use!