Mazda 323 GXi 5dr

Mazda returned to a more conventional school of design with the latest generation of its 323. Whilst the previous 323 was undoubtedly adventurous with its coupe-like profile and range of engines that included a punchy V6, it was perhaps too quirky to be considered in the same breath as an Astra or a Focus. With used versions of the latest 323 now beginning to appear in reasonable numbers, has reining in the creative excesses of their designers made the little Mazda a good bet second time around? What it may lack in charisma it more than makes up in reliability and commonsense, making it a sound buy for those not looking for the last word in style or driver enjoyment.