The latest model retains the distinctive "cab-forward" styling but this time the detailing is more European than Japanese. The car is less slab-sided than before, especially around the wheels, where it reminds of the new Opel Astra. The spacious interior is amongst the most comfortable in its class. One feels immediately at home behind the chunky steering wheel. All the controls are neatly grouped in the middle-console and within easy reach. There is, however, one ergonomic glitch. The placement of the air-vent just right of the steering wheel renders it virtually useless, as it blows directly on the driver's hand, no matter how you position it. Except for this small glitch the Etude's interior is hard to fault and counts amongst the best in its class. The 160iE tested here is the high-spec 1,6-litre model of the range and comes well equipped with electric windows, air-conditioning, power-steering, powered mirrors, CD-compatible radio/tape system, central locking and an alarm/immobiliser. The asking price of R120 640 also includes a three-year/100 000km warranty - illustrating the confidence Mazda has in the new Etude's quality. It was hard to find fault with the build-quality of the Etude. Everything fitted well and there were no rattles or squeaks. The plastic used for the dashboard will scratch easily though, but that can be said of most of its Japanese competitors as well. A four-cylinder 1,6-litre engine developing 78 kW at 5500 rpm and maximum torque of 142 Nm at 4000 rpm powers the spirited 160iE. The engine pulls strongly from low revs, but it is the Etude's in-gear acceleration that has improved the most, especially in fourth and fifth gears. The 160iE accelerates from rest to 100 km/h in a very competitive 11,3 seconds and goes on to reach a maximum speed of 183 km/h. The latest Etude also boasts greatly improved fuel economy and drivers can expect to get around 11,5 km on a litre of unleaded. The car is easy to drive - the steering is wonderfully direct and not over-light like many of its competitors. The car always felt stable and in control. Confidence in the Etude's abilities is further boosted by truly excellent brakes.