Price is right for a great all-rounder

THE MAZDA2 IS A STYLISH, SPORTY SUPERMINI, SAYS PETER KEENAN

THE Mazda2 is a first-class supermini that isn’t just a pretty face. Good looks are usually a given with the Japanese motor manufacturer and the exterior of this supermini is a classic example of its Kodo design language with sweeping lines and bold creases that are easy on the eye.

A new grille, revised headlights and a revamped rear bumper were introduced last year which, along with a neat spoiler and natty alloy wheels, ensure plenty of interest from your neighbours.

But substance, in the form of fuel efficiency, is not sacrificed for style as the 1.5-litre petrol engine achieved an impressive 50mpg during my time with the supermini.

All this combined with a modern interior that caters for four adults and you have a hatchback that is going to tick a lot of boxes for potential buyers.

You won’t be surprised to read that the Sport Nav model features a

natty sat nav system accessed through a high-definition, seveninch touchscreen.

What will surprise you is the lack of sticky fingerprint traffic heading its way as a rotary dial and buttons, set back from the gearstick within easy reach of the driver, will more than likely be the preferred option for changing between functions.

Accessing the car through keyless entry and starting the beast via the push-button ignition gets things off to a good start, while the leathercovered steering wheel acts as mission control for the audio system and cruise control as well as altering the digital read-out next to the large speedometer.

Getting a comfortable driving position is a cinch thanks to a full range of adjustment for the supportive seat and steering wheel while the pedals are nicely positioned without any offset.

There are plenty of cup holders and a glove box for your nik-naks, and, while there are some hard surfaces, most of the materials used in the interior are of a good quality.

The cabin picks up the exterior’s stylish design as it is a thoroughly modern Millie that is well put together with dashboard trim, air vents and door inserts all catching the eye.

There is room in the rear for two adults to sit in reasonable comfort – although legroom is a touch tight and a raised transmission tunnel is awkward if you want to squeeze a third passenger in the back.

The atmosphere in the five-door only model is controlled by an efficient air conditioning system with temperature and airflow dials that are well sited and easy to use.

The Mazda2 offers the smartphone compatibility that’s a musthave these days, providing access to the music, social media and text messages without which modern life can no longer function.

The boot offers a decent space for a supermini at 280 litres, with the rear seats able to be split and folded, creating 950 litres to throw your luggage into.

Mazda ensure their supermini is a pleasure to drive with plenty of grip, informative steering and agile handling. The ride is comfortable with the suspension absorbing most of what the road network puts in its way.

The 89bhp petrol engine – mated to a slick six-speed manual gearbox – propels the Mazda2 from 0-62mph in a shade under ten seconds and on to a claimed top speed of 114mph. You have to work the naturally-aspirated, four-cylinder power unit reasonably hard to get the performance but it makes a lovely sound on the way there so is no hardship.

It sips fuel frugally, helped by stop/start and a mild hybrid system that reduces the load on the engine and cuts emissions. So if you’re looking for a sporty supermini that handles both the urban jungle and motorway cruising with equal aplomb – as well as being easy on the budget – the Mazda2 is a must for the shortlist.

Mazda ensure their supermini is a pleasure to drive with plenty of grip