While other brands seek efficiency through small capacity engines and turbocharging, Mazda sticks to larger, naturally-aspirated engines that give punchy performance and decent economy.
The Mazda 2's spacious, well-designed interior has a quality feel for the most part, and the car is good value and safe too.
The running costs should be low, and strong demand for used versions bodes well for residual values. So the Mazda 2 is a supermini that can appeal to the head as well as the heart.