I'VE got to admit I'm a tad perplexed.

I've been a motoring writer for some time now and one of the first things I do is decide which category the test vehicle falls into.

But try as I might I couldn't find a pigeon-hole for Mazda's new Demio.

I mean, just look, what is it? At a glance it looks a bit like the latest crop of sub-off-roading 4x4s, a bit like a Subaru Forester, for instance.

It's tall, square and quite butch with macho lines, rugged looks and even a bull bar.

But guess what, it's not four wheel drive, it's two, the front two and there's no huge, powerful engine under the bonnet, just a 1.3 litre.

So it's pure road car, and not a bad one either.

The other thing which is surprising is that a manufacturer which produces such innovative interiors as those in the Xedos range, can then turn out something as dull as the Demio.

It's well made and functional, just a tad too plain for my liking.

But that in itself leads to another surprise, the Demio is a great car to drive.

That plain interior actually works very well. It's spacious with plenty of cubbyholes and drinks' holders.

It is supremely comfortable thanks to large, firm and supportive seats, there's bags of space and clever seating arrangements which sees them slide, tilt and fold away.

There's a useful retractable tonneau to keep boot contents safe from prying eyes and a boot light.

The Demio also goes better than it should given its ordinary features.

The 1.3 litre engine is a little gem giving excellent performance and good economy.

Steering is razor sharp, ride comfortable, grip superb and the brakes truly excellent.

After a week in its company I'm still no closer to deciding what type of car the Demio is.

Thing is, after driving it in all sorts of conditions, I've realised it doesn't matter.

Price £10,550.