Mazda 2

Our team of committed spy photographers recently scooped the all-new Mazda 2 undergoing testing (Issue 928). The next-generation supermini will adopt sleek and fresh styling – unlike the current design, which is tall and boxy in comparison. But looks aren’t everything, because the existing 2 still makes an extremely practical used buy.

Launched in 2003 as a replacement for the quirky Demio, the 2 can now be yours second-hand for as little as £4,000. Considering it shares its underpinnings with Ford’s capable, best-selling Fiesta, that makes it something of a bargain. Petrol engines include a 75bhp 1.2-litre, the more common 79bhp 1.4 and a bigger 99bhp 1.6. Diesel fans can opt for a 67bhp 1.4D, which commands a £250 premium over the equivalent 1.4-litre petrol model.

Both the Sport and TS2 trim specifications include twin airbags, alloy wheels and the all-important air-conditioning as standard. The last of these is a £600 option on TS variants.

The Mazda scores with its solid build quality, and although there’s no three-door version, all models have plenty of interior space, light controls and good visibility.