Light under $17K: Australia’s Best Value Cars 2017

Mazda 2 takes a near flawless victory in this budget-conscious segment

1st: Mazda 2 Neo

The Mazda 2’s Gold Star Value campaign was almost flawless. Among the least-expensive to buy, with the strongest resale, it’ll lose less to depreciation in the first three years than any other light hatch.

It’s not quite the most economical, beaten by smaller-engined rivals, but there’s only a bit more than 100 bucks in it over a year. Elsewhere, the 12-month service interval (with lifetime capped-priced servicing) and bargain $682 annual comprehensive insurance are highs.

The three-year warranty is the norm (for now) and the only rivals that do better – Kia, Renault and Hyundai – aren’t near enough to the Mazda against other scoring criteria to mount a challenge.

2nd: Toyota Yaris Ascent

The Yaris snags the silver by being reasonably competitive against each value criterion, rather than with any singular standout performance. Yet even if the trustworthy Toyota had a more generous warranty or service interval, it wouldn’t quite be enough for the gold.

3

3rd: Suzuki Swift GL

A sprightly 1.2-litre four pulling a featherweight body gives the Swift its greatest strength – fuel saving. With a 4.6L/100km combined-cycle figure, it’s thriftier than even a 900cc three-pot turbo Renault Clio, and officially uses 35 percent less fuel than a 1.5 Honda Jazz.

3