2019 Mazda 2 vs Volkswagen Polo

What's the difference?

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.

For a big-name brand crossover, you have to appreciate this car’s restraint.

I mean, have you seen a pair of Beats headphones? I see them all the time, on the bus, at the gym, jogging past me as I sit in traffic…

Point is, the always overly-colourful Dr. Dre-branded creations are themselves wearable marketing beacons, nearly impossible to miss, and that’s how the fans like it.

So, the fact that a few small logos and a pinstripe sticker are the only overtly identifiable ‘Beats’ features on this Polo’s exterior is almost impressive. I think it speaks more to Volkswagen’s restraint.

Will it be enough to convince serial Beats fans, though? Oh, and more importantly, what’s the audio system actually like?

Read on to find out.