MAZDA has picked itself up from near collapse just a couple of years ago and is now well on the way to success.
Following the introduction of four new models, the Ford-backed company is forging ahead in the UK. Last year it sold 39,000 cars - up 34 per cent on 2002 - an all-time sales record in the UK.
Mazda is now setting its sights on pushing this total up to 45,000 this year.
New models have included the Mazda2 supermini and RX-8 sports coupe. The 323 has been replaced by the new Mazda3 which went on sale in January and sales of the Mazda6 have been even greater than Mazda could have hoped for.
Even the Mazda MX-5 continued to live up to its reputation as the world's favourite roadster, with sales topping 9,000 last year, which is an increase of 27 per cent over 2002.
I've driven most of the newcomers, but it's been a while since I slipped behind the wheel of the company's Premacy compact MPV.
It's competent enough, and the 2-litre diesel version I had on test seems good value at just over £14,000. Although its style has probably been overtaken by the latest crop of mini-MPVs on the market, it's still reasonably attractive.
The Premacy comes as a five or seven seater so, depending on the use you are going to make of it, the option is there. It's pretty roomy inside and with the back seats folded it offers good load space for an active family.
The Premacy is easy to drive. It rolls a bit on corners but otherwise it handles pretty well. The suspension settings were up-rated last year and it irons out the bumps and potholes.
Power comes from a 2-litre turbo diesel engine which gives brisk performance and very good fuel consumption. Mazda claims it will provide around 44 mpg on a combined run. The standard gearbox is an easy-changing five speeder with a light clutch.
I liked the cabin. It is light and airy, with a good view all round helping to make it easy to manoeuvre and park.
Safety and security features are impressive. The Premacy has driver, front passenger and side airbags; anti-lock brakes, central locking, alarm, and retractable luggage cover.
All windows are electrically powered and other features include air conditioning, power steering, roof rail, tilt steering column, rear seat back table, three way adjustable driver's seat and radio cassette.
FAST FACTS
Mazda Premacy 2.0 TD
Price: £14,010
Mechanical: 99 bhp, 1,998 cc 4 cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5-spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 106mph
0-62mph: 11.6secs
Combined mpg: 44
Insurance group: 7
CO2 emissions: 177g/km
BiK rating: 22%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited miles; 6yrs anti-rust