MAZDA is a marque that some might have expected to struggle when its long-running and highly successful partnership with Ford ended, but just like another former member of the Ford family - Jaguar Land Rover - it has flourished.

The Japanese car-maker developed a bold strategy going forward. At the heart of it was the development of something called SKYACTIV technology, which made its debut on the CX-5 SUV.

Rather than being any one particular thing SKYACTIV represents a series of technologies which aims to increase both fuel efficiency and performance and reduce emissions. It's a kind of holistic approach which includes new engines, transmissions, body, and chassis - with an emphasis on saving weight.

Mazda's supermini the 2 might have been one of the later models to get the SKYACTIV treatment but arguably its been worth the wait.

Perhaps the most distinctive SKYACTIV feature of the 2 is its engine, or engines to be more precise.

There are multiple offerings via a SKYACTIV-G petrol or SKYACTIV-D diesel unit.

The G is available in three power variants (74bhp, 89bhp or 113bhp), while the D is only available in 104bhp guise but it performs spectacularly well when it comes to fuel economy and emissions.

That said, given the relative frugality and efficiency of the petrol units, investing the extra in a diesel requires careful consideration.

This car had the mid-ranged 89bhp petrol engine and it's probably the pick of the bunch. While it can't quite match the 83.1mpg and 89g/km of CO2 figures of its super-frugal diesel stablemate it still impresses with a combined fuel economy figure of 62.8mpg and emissions of 105g/km. When it comes to running costs that means an annual road tax bill of just £20.

It does so while also offering sprightly performance that combined with a splendid chassis and suspension set-up make this 2 a real joy to drive.

It the same time it's also a consummate and comfortable cruiser.

Of course the 2 is competing in a very competitive segment these days. Gone are the days when superminis could get away with being cheap and cheerful runabouts. Buyers demand both quality and an element of style in small cars these days.

Style is certainly delivered with the 2. Following in the wake of the sleek and sporty 6 is bears some similar design cues with a muscular profile that helps it stand out.

Quality is also a feature throughout and is particularly evident in a well-designed cabin that also features up-to-the minute technology in abundance.

Equipment is fairly generous throughout the range and all but the lowest spec models come with a seven-inch integrated touchscreen system.

The range-topping Sport comes with 16in alloy wheels, push button start, automatic lights and wipers, rear parking sensors and privacy glass.

There are also welcome safety features like auto brake function and lane departure warning.

The instrumentation looks good, retaining an element of Mazda's trademark rugged feel that some might describe as spartan but others minimalist.

In terms of practicality the 2 also measures up. Compared to the previous generation 2 the wheelbase has been stretched by 80mm, meaning the cabin overall is far roomier with the amount of legroom for rear seat passengers a stand-out feature.