2019 Suzuki Swift vs Mazda 2

What's the difference?

It’s a novel idea. You start with a simple mass-market hatchback base, then you throw a bigger turbocharged engine (literally from an SUV) in, give it some upgrades so it’s not totally unwieldy and call it a day.

It seems like an obvious and easy move to appeal to enthusiasts, yet the rest of the Japanese automakers, still reeling from the country’s long and painful economic stagnation, instead provide play-it-safe semi-luxury halo variants for their small hatch ranges.

Suzuki’s going hard on fun-factor as a point of difference though, and the brand delivers with cars like the wacky new Jimny 4x4 and the car reviewed here, the long-running Suzuki Swift Sport.

It’s the last Japanese hot-hatch in this segment, but is it as much fun as it looks? I spent a week in one 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.