IF you are looking for a value-for-money hatchback in the Ford Fiesta/Renault Clio sector, then it's a fair bet that the Daihatsu Sirion isn't one of the models which springs to mind.

Pity really because this is a fine and much under appreciated car which has a lot to offer for its £7,995 entry level price. There's not only a one-litre version which is high on economy, but there are 1.3-litre models, plus special sporty rally versions, and even a four wheel drive model.

The car is more eye-catching than most in the sector with some chrome detailing which really sets it off. It's similar in size to a Renault Clio and the popular mainstream model is a 102 HP 1.3-litre model which offers a top speed of 112 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 9.6 seconds. Yet on the extra urban fuel cycle it can return as much as 61.4 mpg.

The Sirion has been around in the UK since 1998, but has only been available until recently as a one-litre version. It was revised in mid-2000 when the larger engined models were added, using a similar power plant to that featured in the Toyota Yaris. The new Sirion Rally 2 and Rally 4 are permanent models developed in the UK by Daihatsu's own technical department and an outside company called Auto Image.

Priced at £9,995 and £10,995 respectively, the Rally 2 and 4 feature engine, chassis and braking modifications. The engine is boosted to 108 HP, top speed is 115 mph, and the 0-60 mph time drops to just 8.1 seconds for the Rally 2 version.

Yet it still gives 55.8 mpg on the extra urban cycle.

Meantime, the four-wheel drive version which can return around 55 mpg on average, this version normally runs with front wheel drive only, but a viscous coupling provides extra traction at the rear when it is needed in wet and slippery conditions.

This avoids the usual performance and fuel economy penalties of full time four-wheel drive. In fact, this model still has a top speed of 109 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 10.2 seconds.

The latest Sirion models feature a prominent new mesh grille and chrome effect inserts along both the front and sides on most models. There are distinctive new multi-curve headlamps, and the interior boasts a new fascia with a central lidded storage box plus two glove boxes on the passenger side. There has been a higher quality trim material used to the interior, and plush new cloth seat trim with sports seats featuring on most versions.

The shock absorber system, springs and anti roll bars are all finely tuned and there's a smoother ride compared with the previous model as well as increased agility. Power steering is standard. As is the five-speed manual gearbox, though there is an auto version available too. The upper specification models feature twin airbags, air-conditioning, anti-lock brakes and CD player among the standard features, although even the entry-level versions have all-round electric windows and central locking.

All in all the Sirion stacks up as an unsung hero in the super mini sector, and while it's never going to make great inroads into the sales of the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa or Renault Clio, it's certainly a car which deserves a wider audience and it's well worth checking out.