Skoda Fabia vs Mazda 2

The Skoda comes standard with AEB that operates up to our highway limits, a sunroof, seven-speed dual-clutch auto and 17-inch alloys. Spend another $1800 for a Tech Pack and get adaptive cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry/start, digital radio and dual-zone aircon. Satnav is a $950 option, otherwise use the Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to run maps off the mobile phone. Service intervals are 12 months/15,000km and an upfront $1149 covers the first three visits.

LED headlamps, dual-zone aircon and 16-inch alloys are standard. The price includes $2000 for the six-speed auto and $400 for autonomous emergency braking. Service intervals are 12 months/ 10,000km, which amounts to $941 over the first three years if you keep under the distance limit or $1332 if you do 15,000km a year. Mazda has an edge on resale values, according to Glass's Guide.

It's hard to ignore the hard plastics in what is meant to be the flagship version but the multi-coloured seats and red-stitched steering wheel draw attention away from the austere elements. Black exterior highlights give it a sporty look and younger buyers will appreciate the multimedia set-up's improved smartphone integration. Luggage space is 305L.

The Mazda is a victim of its own success. The curvaceous "Kodo" styling is such a common sight on the roads that it's taken for granted. The cabin layout is cute without being cutting edge, though the head-up display is a welcome addition. Luggage space isn't huge at 250L but this isn't a family bus. The front seats are among the best in class with good bolstering and a decent drive position.

The 1.2-litre four-cylinder turbo (81kW/175Nm) provides more than adequate motivation, though there's little point pushing to the rev limit. Claimed thirst is 4.8L/100km but it uses 95RON against regular unleaded in the Mazda, which will push up the weekly running costs.

The 1.5-litre four-cylinder (81kW/141Nm) claims thirst of 4.9L/100km. It is a willing combination, belying the low outputs to deliver solid performance around town or on the open road, though it isn't as instantly responsive as the Skoda.

The Fabia is a five-star/six airbag car backed by one of the better autonomous braking set-ups in this segment and it is standard across the range. The only disappointment is a relatively low frontal crash score of 13.68 out of 16 (the Mazda scored 15.69). If the driver and/or AEB do their job, that shouldn't be an issue.

A five-star safety rating and six airbags put the Mazda2 at the top of the light car totem pole. The autonomous emergency braking operates at up to 30km/h, while Skoda's version is good up to triple figures. The Mazda performed better in physical crash tests.

The Fabia hoses the 2 in a straight line but isn't quite as convincing through a series of turns. Given the remit of these cars, few people will notice the handling differences but they will appreciate the Skoda's extra urge.

As a balanced package, the Mazda takes some beating. It cedes outright pace to the Skoda, not poise. The suspension is firm enough to sit flat through the turns without unduly jostling the occupants and the steering weight and responsiveness are class-leading.