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As tougher financial times and rising petrol prices force a tightening of budgets, many new car buyers are looking to downsize. This year, Australia's Best Car criteria have reflected these trends with a list price ceiling of $18,000 in the Small Car class. But just because the purse strings are tighter, it doesn't mean you need to skimp on quality or driving ability, as the current crop of small cars has a lot to offer. Our winner, Mazda2, is a well-built small car with a big heart and excellent all-round packaging. The stylish looks and vivid colour range are sure to attract plenty of attention, but it is the 2's brilliant on-road ability that shines. Mazda has injected a sense of sporting fun and driving ease into the car. An advanced lightweight body, combined with Mazda's efficient 1.5-litre four cylinder engine, provides the 2 with a favourable power-to-weight ratio that delivers a pleasing blend of spirited performance and economical fuel consumption. A testimony to Mazda's quality engineering, the 2's lightweight construction has been achieved without compromising the structural or safety integrity. Building on this solid foundation, the chassis and suspension setup delivers sharp handling and reassuring braking ability that makes the car nimble and extremely surefooted. With direct steering and a small turning circle, it's a breeze to drive around town and just as capable on the open road. The ride is on the firm side but well controlled and relatively comfortable, while the 2 is also one of the smoothest and quietest cars in the class. Space is always at a premium in this category but Mazda2's astute interior packaging makes the most of its dimensions. Comfortable seats along with well-laid-out controls, particularly the positioning of the gear lever, and clear instrumentation mean a welcoming driving environment and help place the Mazda2 ahead of the pack. Space is tighter in the rear but it is still relatively comfortable. The modest boot actually holds more than you'd expect, and the spit-folding rear seat is handy but does not fold completely flat. Rear vision is restricted by the upward sweeping waistline and high rear window. The level of standard features in the base model Neo, which is the top-selling version, is average for the class, but it's one of the best in security. Standard features include ABS, dual front airbags, air-conditioning and single CD audio system which is MP3-compatible. Safety is also a strong point in the base car, and there's the extra protection of side and curtain airbags and stability control with the attractively priced optional safety pack. Mazda deserves praise for upgrading the base model Neo from 14-inch to 15-inch tyres this year after criticism of its wet weather performance, but it still carries a only temporary-use space-saver spare wheel.
Finalists
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