Mazda 2 verdict

The Mazda 2 remains something of a hidden gem for supermini buyers, and in terms of driving, it now also feels like a proper throwback of the finest type.

It’s not as practical as newer, larger rivals such as the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo, but it will be far more engaging than the German car, or indeed the Hyundai i20 and certainly the Skoda Fabia.

Matt Saunders

Road test editor

That comes with a few compromises: some of those rivals isolate you from the road far better, and the naturally aspirated 1.5 wants revs to give its best. However, for those who appreciate an engaging character, the Mazda 2 will appeal in a way that’s now unique, through its chassis, steering, gearbox and fizzy engine. It’s a heady combination that we may not be able to savour for much longer.

And yet it offers all of that while still providing decent levels of usability, fuel economy and interior quality.

The Mazda 2 continues to be Japan’s best effort at a classic European supermini and, in more ways than one, it's a better one than most of the Europeans.