Unsurprisingly, the 1.2 TCE 100 turbocharged petrol engine is the best fun; it's particularly strong mid-range, as well as lively off the mark. Other options are the non-turbo 1.2 (74bhp) petrol and the 85bhp 1.5 dCi diesel, neither are quick, but both are perfectly adequate. There's also the 110bhp 1.6 petrol with an automatic gearbox.

The suspension is soft, and doesn't jar much over bumps, road-humps or potholes, which makes it well-suited as an urban runaround. The downside is that handling suffers: the Modus is prone to body roll, and with feel-free steering, is uninspiring to drive.

Wind- and road noise are generally well-contained, with the cabin well-insulated from the outside world, but the diesel engine is clattery and noisy, particularly at start-up, and the non-turbo 1.2 petrol can get harsh as well.

The Modus shares its underpinnings with the Clio, and looks expensive model-for-model compared with a supermini, though it is competitively-priced against the closely-related Nissan Note and similar quasi-MPV rivals. Running costs should be affordable, with low insurance, good fuel consumption and cheap servicing at long 18,000-mile intervals.

Renault has consistently finished near the bottom of the table in our annual reliability survey, and the Modus has not been trouble-free. Owners have reported a series of problems; some serious engine issues but mostly poor trim and build quality defects.

The Modus has scored the full five stars in the Euro NCAP crash tests. All models come with at least four airbags, but stability control is an extra-cost option. There are ISOFIX child-seat mounting points, front seatbelt pretensioners plus deadlocks and an immobiliser in all versions.

The driving position is high-set, giving a good view out marred only by bulky windscreen pillars. The doors open wide, making access to the cabin easy, and the steering wheel and seat are height-adjustable. The controls are well laid-out and not too complex.

The Modus offers little more interior space and practicality than a five-door Clio or other similarly-sized supermini, with only its high roof to differentiate it. Dynamique models have the option of the Triptic sliding rear seat, but boot space is still limited; the longer Grand Modus is much more versatile, as is the related (and more characterful) Nissan Note.

Entry-level Expression models have a rather basic-looking cabin, though they do come with air-conditioning, remote central locking, front electric windows and a CD player. Dynamique versions add alloy wheels, electric rear windows, electrically adjustable mirrors, curtain airbags, a leather steering wheel, alloy wheels and soft-touch cabin trim.