The 1.6 petrol has just 107bhp so it doesn't feel particularly quick, and a lack of pulling power means it has to be revved hard. Fiat's proven 120bhp 1.9-litre diesel engine has an extra 99lb ft of muscle, so it is a much better option, but it's pricey to buy.

The Sedici handles with surprising poise and control, considering its high stance. Grip is plentiful even in two-wheel-drive mode, and the automatic four-wheel-drive function provides yet more traction once wheel-slip is detected. The road ride is firm yet comfortable at any speed, and the Sedici is remarkably capable off-road, coping easily with steep, muddy inclines.

Tyre noise is well contained at speed, and the car suffers from very little suspension clatter. Wind can be heard buffeting the windscreen pillars at speed, though. By far, the biggest intrusion is the noise from the petrol engine. A loud and continual drone is heard at 70mph, and acceleration of any sort requires a downshift, increasing engine noise even further.

Starting at £12,495, the Sedici will cost you less than most 4x4s, but most 4x4s aren't this small. The petrol version returns an average of 39.8mpg and sits in the 21% tax bracket for company car drivers. The diesel version is more fuel-efficient, with an average of 42.8mpg, but has a tax banding of 24%.

The Sedici's build quality is Fiat's best effort for a number of years. The cabin uses materials that seem rugged and durable, if not particularly flash. Even when tackling tricky terrain, no squeaks or rattles can be heard in the cabin. Moreover, the 4x4 technology comes with a good pedigree, having been provided by Suzuki.

The standard-issue four-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction to help drivers avoid trouble, and anti-lock brakes help further still. Should the worst happen, though, twin front and side airbags and ISOFIX child seat mountings are provided. On the security front, deadlocks are standard, as is a coded key and immobiliser.

The dash layout is simple and easy to use, with uncluttered and clearly labelled controls for the stereo and air-conditioning. The steering wheel only adjusts for height, and no seat height adjustment is provided on the base model. Despite this, however, it's easy to make yourself comfortable at the wheel.

There is a decent amount of space around the front seats, while two rear-seat passengers will enjoy ample head- and legroom, and a high seating position gives a good view out. Shoulder room is tight in the back, though, so adding a third passenger will be quite a squeeze. Storage holes are plentiful, but a 270-litre boot is disappointing, even though folding the rear seats away extends this to 670 litres.

Both engines will be offered in two trim levels. The entry-level Dynamic trim provides roof rails, foglights, air-conditioning, electric front windows, a single-slot CD player and four-wheel-drive as standard. Eleganza trim adds 16-inch alloy wheels, electric rear windows, driver-seat height adjustment and various aesthetic touches inside and out. In both trims, the diesel engine comes with a six-speed manual gearbox.