Green, lean and keen: the new Mazda 2 - Good engine line-up

At least it's more exciting than the overly conservative current car. In the UK there'll be a base TS model with a 74bhp 1.3-litre engine, a mid-range TS2 with an 85bhp 1.3, and a body-kitted Sport powered by a 102bhp 1.5. All the engines are new to the 2 in Europe.

A 1.4-litre diesel and a three-door will be added next year. No decision has been taken on an automatic yet.

A brief track drive in a 1.5-litre car revealed the engine to be zingy and eager to rev. Thanks to some clever valve gear and air inlets, it also pulls well across a wide range.

The controls are light and easy and the brakes strong. Mazda seems to have gone for a more comfort-orientated set-up with the new car, but it clings on well, handles neatly and feels solid and secure.

The worst aspect is the over-light electronic power steering, which makes it hard to judge how much to turn, particularly in fast bends.

It contributes 2% to the fuel savings, however, so we're going to have to get used to such things, and for every enthusiast who bemoans the lack of feedback, there'll be a harassed mum who is delighted how easy the car is to park.