IT IS fair to say the previous-generation Mazda2 Sedan was not the prettiest model the Japanese car-maker has ever rolled out, and after a year of unremarkable sales, a manufacturing upset signaled the end for the model in right-hand-drive markets.

But with a liberal application of Kodo design and a realignment of production the little sedan is back with prettier looks and a price that should worry its rivals.

Australia isn't the strongest compact sedan market but with a prediction to sell 17 per cent of the Mazda2 range in big-booted Sedan guise, that still represents about 200 per month.

Can Mazda solve the small sedan secret with a model that offers likeable looks, a big boot and a tempting $14,990 starting price?

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