Mazda 2 2014 Problems

You could look at all small models from the mainstream carmakers, like Mazda, and you won’t go wrong. The Mazda2 is a good choice, but you could also look at the Toyota Yaris, Hyundai i20 and Kia Rio.

The Polo is the best car on your list — and until the end of the year it is selling for $15,990 driveaway — but you should include the Honda Jazz, which is even better value for money.

The two new arrivals this year, the Mazda2 and Jazz, both get The Tick from me. The Jazz is better value in the basic car and the Mazda rival has a more substantial feel. Go for the Honda.

All three get The Tick, which is unusual for me. The Polo is slightly better as a car but the Mazda2 beats it on value thanks to reliability and dealer back-up. The Jazz, in third, isn't disgraced.

None of the above. It's the Volkswagen Polo, which recently had a significant price cut, that gets The Tick from me.

I'm doing the same thing with my mother-in-law. A new car will be best with great value and excellent warranties. The three cars she needs to drive are the Honda Jazz, Mazda2 and Volkswagen Polo. All three get The Tick so go for her personal favourite. I'd go for the Jazz.

If it were my daughter I would be looking for safety and reliability as top priorities in a first car. With your budget I would be looking at a 2013/14 Mazda2, a 2014/15 Kia Rio, and a 2014 Toyota Yaris.