2 MARK 2 When Mazda set out to design their latest supermini, they turned the clock back. Not in terms of packaging or safety, but in terms of weight. The latest Mazda2 weighs as much as the average small car did in 1997 which is a very good thing. Lower emissions, better fuel economy and a more agile feel are the results and make it a strong challenger for our supermini title. Most buyers will opt for petrol power where there's a choice of 75 or 86ps 1.3-litre engines or a vaguely sporty 102ps 1.5. Dealers will also take orders for a 1.4-litre 68ps diesel. Prices start at £8,499 for the entry-level 75ps 1.3, but even at this level, you get a decent kit quotient. This runs to ABS with Brake Assist and EBD, driver and front passenger airbags, remote central locking with deadlocks, electric front windows, driver seat height adjust, CD radio with AUX jack and two speakers, multi-function glovebox with magazine rack, Thatcham Category 1 alarm and immobiliser and electric door mirrors. At the front, there's the traditional V-shaped Mazda grille and the headlights are very deftly smeared into the front bumper assembly. Likewise the tail lights are neatly integrated into the tailgate which, from a practical perspective, doesn't have the widest aperture as a result. Still, when budget small cars like the Proton Satria Neo now look as good as they do, the expectation for a company such as Mazda is cranked ever higher. With pricing pitched at below Fiesta levels, the initial signs look very good for the Mazda2, albeit with one or two caveats. The styling is neat, the cabin well finished and the Mazda brand is now in ruder health than at any point I can remember. Perhaps the Mazda2 can get it right second time round.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

FACTS AT A GLANCE CAR: Mazda2 range PRICES: £8,499-£11,799 - on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 3-8 [est] CO2 EMISSIONS: 129-140g/km [petrol variants] PERFORMANCE: [1.3] 0-60mph 14s / Max Speed 104mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: [1.3] 52.3mpg [combined] STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front & side airbags WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: length/width/heightmm 3885/1695/1475mm WHO TO SEE: September 17th 2007