Mito’s importance to Alfa Romeo’s success in the UK is demonstrated by the decision to debut the car at the British Motor Show.

Alfa Romeo sales this year are expected to be about 8,000, up 7-8% on last year.

But next year, thanks to the B-segment Mito, sales should be 15,000.

That means an awful lot is riding on the success of Alfa’s first compact car.

Nicholas Bernard, Alfa Romeo UK sales and market director, recognises the Mito’s market is very different to the rest of its cars. Accordingly, marketing will focus on younger people.

Taking styling cues from the limited edition Alfa 8C Competizione, particularly the front end, the car is available to order from October in the UK, with the first to be delivered in January.

There will be a choice of three petrol and two diesel engines, with four of the five offering six-speed gearboxes.

Top of the petrol range is a 155bhp 1.4-litre turbo. The entry-level petrol is a 1.4-litre with 95bhp. The diesels are a 1.6-litre 120bhp and a 1.3-litre 90bhp.

Prices range from £10,975 to £14,975.

Features include Alfa Romeo’s DNA system (Dynamic-Normal-All weather), which creates the best set-up for different driving conditions and cornering brake control.

Bernard says the Mito is something different. “To drive, it’s fresh, it’s light, it’s agile and it’s fun.”