Mazda 2

Simple is good. Especially where superminis are concerned - no fuss is required, thanks. A point in case is the Mazda2. Jump into one, and everything becomes clear, instantly. For example, you don't need to go scrabbling around for the iPod socket, it's under a little flap by the gearlever, one of many beautifully simple points.

All the basics are done properly, that's the secret, and it applies to the engines too. Petrols have been the staple power of small cars for years, but more and more are now benefitting from diesels. The little Mazda2 has finally joined this group. With figures of 65.7mpg and 114g/km, I'm struggling to see why the Japanese took so long to get it launched.

It's not all good news, though. Noise levels are high, so you can begin to understand the hesitance. Refinement isn't great. Once it's warm, the Mazda isn't too bad because it settles down, but at cold and under acceleration there's more rumble than I've come to expect of modern diesels.

Still, on most levels, this a seriously good car. The power figures aren't hugely impressive, but because the 2 is so light, it never feels slow. The extra weight of the diesel engine hasn't made the ride any harsher, either. All of which goes to show that you don't need to employ 300 marketing people to make a decent supermini. Just build the basics.