Fiesta fun without reliability woes: Why you need a Mazda 2

Phone connectivity is included on cars from 2019 onwards. Space is good up front, with lots of elbow room, but in the back, tall adults will be more squashed than in a VW Polo, and the tight boot has a capacity of just 280 litres when most rivals are well into the 300s.

As for engines, Mazda is an advocate of normal aspiration and the main choice is a smooth 1.5-litre petrol four that's charismatic and reliable. Even the least powerful 74bhp version with a five-speed manual feels peppy enough. The 2 weighs only a hair over a tonne, so 100lb ft feels plenty. The 89bhp version is nice to have, because it also gains a useful bump in torque.

Some cars have a six-speed automatic (it was optional), but it dulls the performance and fun factor. Besides, the manual 'box has one of the best throws out there. The 114bhp tune doesn't add any torque, but its manual's sixth gear is welcome on the motorway and the 8.7sec 0-62mph time helps to make it feel like a warm hatch.

With the 2019 facelift, the 89bhp version gained a six-speed manual and, alongside the 114bhp variant, a mild-hybrid system that boosts economy, if not performance. Talking of which, a real-world mid-50s to the gallon is achievable.

Road noise is pronounced on motorways (facelifted models have extra soundproofing), but the 2's blend of style, rewarding driving dynamics and impressive reliability record makes it a compelling choice, even against newer rivals.

What to look for 

Suspension: Some owners have reported prematurely worn suspension components, specifically shock absorbers and bushings, particularly on earlier models. Listen for any excessive knocking or squeaking over speed bumps and check the shocks for any visible fluid leaks.

Brakes: On cars driven in a spirited fashion, the front brake discs can be susceptible to warping, causing a telltale shuddering under moderate braking. This is often fixed by simply fitting high-quality replacement rotors and pads, which is a sensible upgrade anyway.

Air conditioning: Failures or poor performance of the air conditioning system have been noted, often due to a refrigerant leak. Check the air is blowing icy cold. If it's weak, it could be a costly fix beyond a simple regas.

Infotainment: The system is generally intuitive but can occasionally freeze or reboot itself. A simple software update from a dealer usually sorts persistent issues, but it's worth checking its functionality during a test drive.

Also worth knowing 

As well as the 1.5-litre petrol, there's a rare 1.5-litre diesel, available in pre-facelifted cars. It's relatively powerful (104bhp and 184lb ft) and is the sole turbocharged 2. If you want something small to do a lot of miles in, it holds appeal and you can expect to average 70mpg. But on the downside, refinement takes a further hit and the extra weight affects the handling and ride.

Every 2 registered before 1 April 2017 will be £35 or less to tax per year, while all cars after that will come in at £195. The early line-up featured SE, SE-L and Sport Nav trims, all of which are well equipped. Later trims, such as Sport Nav and GT Sport, added niceties like a head-up display and LED lights, but it's worth checking the spec of any 2 you're looking at carefully, because there was a wide range of trims over the years with changing levels of equipment.

From 2022, Mazda also sold a hybrid version called, helpfully, the Mazda 2 Hybrid, but it's actually a rebadged Toyota Yaris. So don't confuse the two: the Mazda-designed 2 (the one you want for driving pleasure) was still sold alongside it.