2011 Mazda MAZDA2 Images

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What is it? Closely related to the Ford Fiesta, the Mazda2 benefits from its former part owner’s deeper pockets while offering up a decidedly sport-oriented take on the platform. Officially, the cars have few interchangeable parts, although they share much of their general underpinnings.

Our tester came as optioned-up as you can buy a Mazda2, although that’s not saying much given that the add-on list is relegated to accessories. Two models are on offer, the entry-level Sport (think hubcaps) and the Touring, which adds fog lights, alloy wheels, some styling goodies, a trip computer, leather wrapping for the steering wheel, cruise control and two extra speakers. Coming in at $16,430 as-tested, the Mazda2 lacked our recent $18,590 Fiesta SES’ heated seats, Bluetooth and keyless access, but not much else.