Ford Fiesta Zetec vs Honda Jazz VTi-S

There is marginally more kit in the Ford Fiesta than the Jazz but buyers will pay an extra $2000 for the automatic transmission, though it does have six forward cogs. The 16-inch alloys, sports bodykit and firmer suspension tune are welcome additions.

A five-speed automatic transmission is standard on the top-spec Honda Jazz, making it a logical choice for buyers who want a self-shifter. The features list runs from 16-inch alloys to a multi-information display, Bluetooth telephony and a four-speaker sound system with steering wheel-mounted controls. A comparable Mazda 2 has the same fruit and is $500 cheaper, though.

The Zetec's skirts make it the best-looking in the Fiesta family and the rear spoiler gives the back end some presence on the road. Inside it still has to make do with the fake alloy centre console - there's a point where too much reflective silver garnish becomes gaudy - and overly complicated switchgear for the stereo. The boot capacity is 40 litres down on the Jazz.

Smart looks and plenty of space make the Jazz a standout here. The angular front end looks as good as anything on the road and arching roofline and big windows disguise the car's high height. That height works in its favour inside - the Jazz will easily take four tall adults and there are enough nooks and crannies to stow all their gear. The 335 litre boot adds to the appeal.

Nothing outrageous to report here. The 1.6-litre engine pumps out a touch more torque than the Jazz - 88kW/151Nm - and uses less fuel to do it at 6.1 litres/100km. The voice-controlled stereo has USB and iPod connectivity - but the cable doesn't come with the car.

The basic package is very good but the charge of the light car brigade has left the Jazz lagging. The chassis is still among the best in class but the engine isn't as fuel-efficient as some of its rivals. The interior layout is starting to date and the stereo is basic - the kids preferred to keep their iPod earphones in rather than hook up to the car.

Another five-star rating from the crash-testing bodies makes the Fiesta an equally smart choice on the occupant protection front. The Zetec model comes with seven airbags including a driver's knee bag  and there are seatbelt reminders for both front seats.

Honda prides itself on its engineering and this example is as safe as houses. The Jazz has a high five-star ANCAP rating and is fitted with all the usual electronic gizmos and seatbelt reminders on all seats.

Good mechanicals means the Zetec is more than a dressed-up Fiesta. It is capable of being hustled along at a fair clip and the steering feedback encourages drivers to do just that - but it will swallow fuel at around 8.5 litres/100km. The bolstered seats are supportive and help make this a very capable light car to tour in, even if carrying capacity isn't up to the Jazz.

The 1.5-litre mill pumps out a respectable 88kW and 145Nm but needs some revs on board to get the best out of it. The steering feedback isn't superb but the Jazz goes where it's pointed and hangs on well through the corners. Fuel consumption is 6.7 litres/100km - good but not great. But the boot space is a winner at the shops