AS the name implies, Mazda's Business Line model is firmly aimed at the company car user.

But that doesn't mean it won't appeal to private buyers, with its sporty stance, powerful, but economical engine and low running costs - and Mazda's reliability is a given.

It is also competitively priced at just over £18,000.

Whether business or pleasure it is a comfortable, practical and stylish alternative to the market leaders.

It looks the part with feline, sporty look enhanced by smart 17-inch alloy wheels and eye-catching light clusters.

The sporty look is further enhanced by the rear spoiler, which looks great but does impinge on vision through the back window.

A five-door hatchback, it offers huge boot space of 510 litres and full five-seat practicality. The folding rear seats means stowage space can open to a massive 1,702 litres - larger than many an estate car.

It is well equipped and features an easy-to-use integrated Sanyo TomTom satellite navigation system and Bluetooth connectivity, both particularly useful for business users constantly on the road.

The system has a 5.8-inch monitor with SD card-based navigation maps the cover 45 European countries.

Another option available by subscription is the LIVE Services system that updates map and traffic information while on the move every two minutes. It is available for free for the first three months after purchase.

The car easily accommodates five in comfort. Fixtures, fittings and trim match anything in its class and the whole interior is comfortable and of the highest quality, trimmed in black and brushed aluminium, with neat and logical dials and instrumentation.

It feels well screwed together and the dash has classy soft touch finish.

The 2.2-litre diesel engines is surprisingly powerful with an instant response from the accelerator pedal. This is particularly useful in the 50-60mph band where overtaking is made simple.

Hundreds of motorway miles are eaten up with ease and in comfort thanks to comprehensive soundproofing with the refined diesel throbbing in the background.

Equipment levels are impressive with radio/CD/MP3 player, metallic paintwork, leather steering wheel and gear knob, dual zone climate control front and rear electric windows, electric door mirrors and cruise control.

Safety features are comprehensive and include traction and stability control, assisted braking and front, side and curtain airbags.

The star turn though is the engine. Instantly responsive, although the clutch is rather sharp.

Claimed economy is a mightily impressive 55.4mpg, a figure that seemed achievable with careful driving, while carbon emissions are low at only 133g/km, putting in the 19 per cent bracket for benefit in kind taxation purposes.

It pumps out a 129ps, which doesn't sound that impressive, but acceleration is extremely brisk at just over 10 seconds for the 0-60mph sprint, yet diesel clatter is virtually absent.

Handling is exceptionally sharp and the car feels agile, firm and assured on bends and corners and despite firmish suspension, the bumps and potholes are ironed out with little discomfort to the occupants.

There are now 21 Mazda6 models starting at £17,805 with three petrol and three diesel engines, and four equipment levels available.