IT'S unusual for a car that falls into the supermini category to offer just a single petrol engine choice - even if it does come with three different degrees of punch.

Even more so when that powerplant is just 1.5-litres, while popular rivals from brands like Ford, Vauxhall and Volkswagen all start with much smaller, albeit turbocharged, engines.

But in the case of the new Mazda2 it's a decision in the process of paying off, because when it comes to performance and - more significantly - economy, the Japanese brand has hit paydirt.

Smarter looking, and with a heightened feel of quality compared to its predecessor, the latest ‘2' boasts a 16-strong range of five-door hatchback models costing from £11,995 to £17,395.

There is a diesel, also a 1.5, while the petrol units comprise outputs of 75, 90 and 115PS and either five or six-speed manual transmissions or a six-speed automatic.

The tested model from bang in the middle of the five trim grades - SE, SE-L, SE-L Nav, Sport and Sport Nav - featured the 90PS petrol engine that's already proving to be one of the top sellers.

Emitting low CO2 emissions of 105g/km is an attraction in itself, but to have the potential for an average 62.8mpg from an engine like this is testament to the fuel-saving SKYACTIV technology that Mazda has placed so much faith in.

The engine feels really sweet in everyday conditions and responds instantly when you need a quick kick; head out on the motorway and there's lots of power on tap for a small car and its dynamics are very positive.

After a week of mixed but predominantly urban driving my own fuel return was just below the 50mpg mark, a very acceptable figure.

That's from a car that has plenty of feelgood factor built in. For instance there's a classy feel to the cabin, which is also comfortable and spacious.

The instruments and upholstery also feel durable and likely to survive heavy-handed family use, even as the car gets older.

Standard equipment, too, is extensive for a mid-grade model, the likes of leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearknob, steering wheel-mounted audio and Bluetooth controls, seven-inch colour touch-screen, Multimedia Commander, DAB radio and integrated navigation system with three years free European map updates all included.

You also get rear electric windows, cruise control, adjustable speed limiter, lane departure warning system, smart city brake support.