2 scores on doors

Here’s the Mazda -2... doors, that is. The three-door variant of the company’s supermini is launched this month, offering a much sleeker look than the five-door hatchback.

This latest version will broaden the appeal of the 2008 World Car of the Year. The five-door 2 was launched in September 2007, and won acclaim for being lighter than its predecessor, bucking the trend for heavier new models.

Prices for the three-door will be £500 less than the equivalent five-door, so start at £7,999 for a 1.3-litre petrol model in entry TS trim. The two variants have the same exterior and interior dimensions, but the newcomer has 25mm less rear seat shoulder room. Other changes include unique side sills for models fitted with a sports styling kit, as well as an exclusive Crystal White pearlescent paint.

Mazda anticipates up to 50 per cent of 2 buyers will choose the latest version, which comes with the option of two 1.3 petrol engines or a 1.4-litre diesel. In July, a 102bhp 1.5 petrol Sport model will be available, priced from £11,399.