Mazda

Mazda

There's a lot more to Mazda than lightbulbs. They've come charging at the market from several different directions - city cars, sports cars, family cars - and ended up in a big, friendly, decent-value heap in the middle of the market. Slightly left-field but sensible, slightly naff yet strangely ever so slightly clever, too. A nice puzzle.

  • Mazda2

    2

    $15,750 - $22,495

    Rational and stylish Fiesta cousin, with a likeable yet unpretentious character all of its own. A bit of an acquired taste, but will outlast a few overdone mock-retro rivals.

  • Mazda3

    3

    $20,990 - $43,690

    Where the Focus is head boy, the Mazda3 is the dull little chap who sits in quiet torment at the back of the class, dreaming of being popular. He's not stupid, just a bit dull.

  • Mazda3 MPS

    3 MPS

    Now someone's given the dull little chap who sits at the back of the class a large handgun and a reputation for sexual prowess. Focus momentarily looks worried.

  • Mazda6

    6

    $27,990 - $42,990

    Here's where thinking Mazda may mark you out as shrewd in a pack of predictables. So, you bought a Mazda6 instead of a Passat? Interesting. And it's good, you say?

  • Mazda CX-7

    CX-7

    $40,610 - $46,460

    What a laugh! A sporty SUV crossover that comes only with a 175kW 2.3-litre turbo engine. Farmers can rest easy though - it wouldn't last five minutes in a field.

  • Mazda MX-5

    MX-5

    $42,870 - $49,835

    Original roadster premised on the old MGB adage of high-fun at relatively low speed. Chassis is more flickable than a Subbuteo player. A total and utter hoot.

  • Mazda RX-8

    RX-8

    $49,720 - $57,625

    You want quirks, you got 'em. Suicide doors? Rotary engine? Compact coupe looks with room for four? A bugger for those who claim cars are so predictable these days.