Mazda 2 Review

Performance4.5/5

The Mazda 2’s performance varies across the three petrol two diesel engines available. For most people, the 1.3 litre petrol will deliver what they want. Available with 74bhp or 85 bhp; the latter will take you from 0-62 mph in 12.9 seconds and can reach a speed of 107mph. The 1.5 litre (100bph; 0-62mph in 10.4 seconds) is available only with the Sport trim and is probably the best of the bunch when it comes to travelling on motorways. The two diesel engines are a 1.4 litre and, the most recent addition to the range, a 1.6 litre – the latter, also, is only available in the Sport trim. The 1.4 litre though is worth considering, consuming, as it does, a mere 69 mpg.

Handling4/5

The Mazda 2’s handling makes it great to drive, with sharp steering. It is more satisfying for the driver than the passengers however, who might find the rather firm suspension a bit too hard for complete comfort, particularly on our less than perfect tarmac surfaces. At higher speeds there can be a more road noise than one would like. Compared with other cars in its class though, the Mazda 2 is agile and nippy, enjoyable on twisty country roads but easily parked in town.

Exterior4/5

The Mazda 2 styling is not hugely different to its predecessor – but that is no bad thing as the latter was a stylish car anyway. New fog lamps are included in this reincarnation, as well as newly designed 15 inch alloy wheels for a sportier feel, and a wider front bumper.

Interior3.5/5

The Mazda 2’s interior is practical rather than pretty – although even the practical aspects are left wanting a little. The plastics have been upgraded and should be durable if a bit hard to the touch; there’s a lot of black there which could be a bit overpowering. Switches and dials are laid out logically and are easy to find and use. The steering wheel though, cannot be adjusted for reach although it can be raised and lowered as can the driver’s seat – so most drivers should be able to find the right position for them. The Mazda 2 comes with three or five doors – in the entry level (TS) model, the rear seats don’t fold down to create the extra luggage space created by this facility in other trim levels. The boot provides 250 litres of stowage space which can be increased to 787 litres by folding the seats. Unfortunately this more generous space is still compromised by the boot’s high lip, which makes loading and unloading large objects difficult. There’s room in the back of the Mazda 2 for two adults or three children – three adults would be pushing your luck!

Equipment3.5/5

The Mazda 2 comes in four trim levels, from TS through TS2, Tamura to top of the range Sport. The basic Mazda 2 TS is equipped with electric front windows and door mirrors, MP3 compatibility, CD radio, remote central locking and air conditioning.  Upgrade to the TS2 for additional goodies including 15 inch alloys, leather multi-function steering wheel, trip computer, side and curtain airbags, and extra speakers; up another notch to the Tamura will bring you something sportier with 16 inch alloys, exterior Sports styling kit and four halogen headlights. Finally the Mazda 2 Sport trim completes the line up with automatic wipers, electrically operated rear windows and mirrors, cruise control, climate control, speed alarm, six audio speakers, traction control and dynamic stability control.

Safety4/5

Although the Mazda 2 has been awarded a five star EuroNCAP rating, that was back in 2007. Since then there are more criteria to meet and it may be that it would not merit the top award now. The entry TS model does not have side or curtain airbags; neither does it come with an electronic stability programme. From the TS2 up though, the additional airbags are included. Anti-lock brakes (ABS), brake assist are included in all models, as are Isofix child seat anchor points and a Thatcham Category 1 alarm. Mazda do have a strong reputation for reliability, so there does not seem any reason to expect any major problems.

Buying & Owning4/5

The Mazda 2 is one of the less stressful-on-the wallet superminis, and this, coupled with the fact that it is stylish to look at and well equipped, makes it a popular choice. It’s not an expensive car to purchase new and will keep a very reasonable value as a used car. Insurance and servicing costs should prove economical; it has modest fuel consumption and low CO2 ratings – all of which adds up to a good buy for someone who has to keep an eye on the bank balance.

Reviewed by cars2buy