THERE aren't many, if any, car makers who build more reliable vehicles than Mazda, with bullet-proof reliability and good value for money.

But they used to be a bit a staid with, at best, average styling, making it a reliable if sometimes uninspiring buy.

That changed a few years ago when the Mazda6 broke new ground for the company and it has moved onwards and upwards with a fleet of models that are now as stylish as anything in their class.

The baby of the Mazda range does look good, carrying the brand's ‘family face' with a larger five-point grille and larger company badge, the same as its bigger siblings, but retaining an individual look.

The upgraded Mazda2 line-up, introduced last year, features a nine-strong model range with three-door and five-door hatchback body styles and a a choice of three petrol and one diesel engine, plus four  equipment levels  of TS Air Con, TS2, Tamura and Sport.

The 1.5-litre in the tested model proved a bit of a conundrum, being a very lively customer, although a lot thirstier than I would have anticipated from 'official' mpg figures  of 48.7.

The car's own onboard computer was only indicated just under 39mpg over the course of a week, but conversely the acceleration, officially 10.7 seconds from 0-60mph felt miles quicker. The engine range has been retuned and as a result reduced CO2 emissions put five Mazda2 variants in the zero road tax bracket, while the 1.5-litre I drove still only burns 135g/km.

On the road the 100bhp unit is mated to a slick-shifting five-speed manual box and with the stiffened suspension and taut handling, you get a really sport drive.

Road-holding and ride comfort have been improved thanks to a stiffer bodyshell, and that shows itself with excellent cornering capability.

The ride is on the firm side, but not uncomfortably so with potholes and bumps soaked up pretty well.

The Mazda2 is a cool-looking customer that offers excellent build quality and decent practicality for what is a city car. It even features  decent sized, deep boot. and the rear seats fold for extra load lugging.

Every model comes with dual front airbags, air-conditioning, electric front windows, CD radio with auxiliary jack and a Thatcham Category 1 alarm.

TS2 models add 15-inch alloy wheels, side and curtain airbags, leather steering wheel with audio controls, trip computer with speed alarm, while the range-topping Sport models gain front fog lights, auto-lights and wipers, cruise control, automatic climate control air-conditioning, electric rear windows and DSC.

It also scores five stars for safety on the Euro NCAP ratings for occupants.

It is well equipped and the interior offers a classic simplicity.

The Sport model features an effective layout with piano black trim offset by neat dials with chrome ring surrounds.

The controls are sturdy and logical and the car has a reassuringly well-built feel that we have come to expect from Mazda.

The seats are firm and comfortable and fully adjustable.

Head and legroom is not the greatest and the arrowed-shape of the car means visibility is not that great, but at the price, it is good value for money -and there is that legendary reliability.