The much-acclaimed Mazda 2 has finally arrived on our shores, in time for the Motor Fair which opens in Naxxar on Wednesday. The Mazda 2 is the smallest of the new range of dynamic Mazda models which include the Mazda 3 and the revolutionary Mazda RX-8, which promises to be one of the main attractions at the show.

Speaking at the launch at Gasan Automotive Centre in Mriehel, Ivan Grech, sales and marketing manager, said that Mazda have introduced a zoom zoom experience, which is "a joy to drive and a throw-back to a young age where whoever drives a Mazda feels like he is driving his first go-cart".

Etienne Mallia, marketing executive, gave details of the car's "high levels of functionality and intelligent technology, in Mazda's process of renewal."

Together they took the guests present through what the car has to offer, from its sporty and appealing design and its comfortable and practical interior to its modern and spirited engines.

The Mazda 2, in fact, come with two modern 16-valve, double overhead camshaft petrol engines. The 1.25l develops 75 bhp and the 1.4l develops 80 bhp. There is also a second-generation common-rail 1.4l diesel engine developing 68 bhp.

Also in the showroom was the medium-sized Mazda 3, both five-door hatchback and four-door sedan, and Mazda's latest contribution to the sports car segment the RX8, a four-seater coupe with revolutionary freestyle doors without pillars, not to mention the 220bhp beast under the bonnet.