Review of used Alfa Romeo Mito: 2009-2015

The three-door trim rode and handled well - and kicked the Alfa's reliability up a notch.

New

We don't always associate prestige with small cars, but Alfa's cute little MiTO hatchback bridged the gap pretty well.

Alfa was not alone with the prestige small car, but with its sporty heritage it promised something more than its competitors in terms of Italian looks and driving experience.

Being only a three-door hatchback, the MiTO had limited appeal for those looking for practical transportation. It lived up to the expectations of a striking appearance thanks to its characteristic grille, stylish headlights and flowing lines.

At launch in 2009, there was a base model and a Sport, joined in 2010 by the QV. In 2012, the revamped lineup removed the smaller pair and added Progression and Distinctive.

The prestigious QV with more hardware and tuned performance continued to exist until MiTO was taken off the market in 2015.

The base 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine had various levels of tuning.

If buyers were expecting a fireball, MiTO might disappoint.

It produced 88 kW/206 Nm in the original base model, 114 kW/230 Nm in the Sport version and 125 kW/250 Nm in the QV.

In 2010, the power of the base model was increased to 99 kW/206 Nm, and the Sport engine was added as an option.

The transmission choice was a five-speed manual until 2010 when it was dropped in favor of a six-speed manual and a six-speed dual clutch was introduced as an automatic option.

Shortly before the MiTO was discontinued, Alfa added a 900cc turbocharged two-cylinder engine. CM (77 kW / 145 Nm).

If buyers were expecting a fireball, MiTO might disappoint. It wasn't slouching, it handled well and was fun to drive, but it wasn't as fast as the Alfa badge might suggest.

Now

Mention Alfa Romeo and you'll often hear horror stories of poor build quality and non-existent reliability. This was certainly the case in the bad old days when Alphas would rust while you were looking at them and break down in the driveway, they are not like that today.

Readers tell us they enjoy owning and operating MiTO. The build quality is not satisfactory, breakdowns are rare.

Mechanically, the MiTO appears to be intact, but check all controls - windows, remote locking, air conditioning - for electrical or operational failures.

The MiTO turbine is prone to oil loss.

Take a close look at the bodywork, especially for paint, which we've been told can be blotchy and uneven. Also check the area of ​​the front of the body that is prone to chipping from stones thrown from the road.

As with any modern car, it's vital to change your engine oil regularly, especially with a well-tuned turbo like the MiTO. Review the service record to confirm regular maintenance.

The MiTO turbine is prone to oil loss, so check the assembly for leaks. The camshaft timing belt needs to be replaced every 120,000 km. Make sure it's done - don't risk the belt breaking.

If you're intent on buying a MiTO, it's probably best to avoid the twin-cylinder engine, a fancy item that's sure to be orphaned when it's time to sell.