2019 Kia Rio vs Mazda 2

What's the difference?

Over four generations, the Kia Rio has cemented its place in the Australian small-car landscape.

It now enjoys a market share on par with the Honda Jazz, but is bested by its fleet-friendly cousin, the Hyundai Accent, as well as the Suzuki Swift, Mazda2 and Toyota Yaris.

Now that it’s an established player, though, could it aim for a bigger slice of the small-hatch pie? Could it become one of Australia’s most beloved small-car nameplates?

We’ve driven the entire updated 2019 Rio range to find out.

Mazda has done a top job of capturing the minds of Australia's car buyers with its strong 'Kodo' design language.

It's a genius move. Everything from an almost $70,000 top-spec CX-9 to this car, the sub-$20k Mazda2 - the cheapest vehicle Mazda sells - share a familiar face, delicate bodywork and classy trim.

Look closely, though, and there are some chinks in this little car's attractive armour. What should be a fleet-special appears to flounder in the face of the Hyundai Accent, a car so old it's about to be de-commissioned.

So, are the fleets on to something? Even at this bargain-basement price, is the Mazda2 Neo a tall order? A bait and switch, if you will, for the apparent crowd favourite - the up-specced Maxx.

Stick with me, and we'll find out.