Road Test: Mazda 2

The Mazda 2 competes in a market already highly contested by the likes of the Hyundai i20, VW Polo, Renault Clio and Ford Fiesta. The Mazda 2 differentiates itself by being loaded with features that would ordinarily be optional extras. The 2 is modelled off the SkyActive platform, which focuses on engine efficiency and weight reduction.

On the Road

Powertrain options are both naturally aspirated 1.5L engines, one petrol and the other brings the range-topping Hazumi diesel. Power as tested (Mazda2 Individual Plus 1.5L Auto) was 82kW mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Flappy-paddle shifters and sports mode are present which allowed the driver some involvement although for the most part the commute was dominated by a more the more relaxed normal mode.  Power is delivered in a linear fashion and gear changes are smooth but the 2 doesn’t feel eager when prodding the throttle. Despite this Mazda 2 doesn’t feel underpowered and will happily climb mountain passes or be a casual city run-around.

On the inside
Mazda have upped their interior game, with comfortable seats, soft-to-touch material around the cabin and ergonomic buttons and dials that fall to hand – Most notably the infotainment controlling rotating bezel. The 7-inch infotainment display with reverse camera and PDC can also be controlled using touch but takes a while to get used to. Our test car had half leather seats, auto fold mirrors and lane departure warning. One of the most noticeable additions to the 2 is the folding heads-up display. On start-up the HUD unfolds and shows the vehicle speed and directions, feeding the driver information without him/her taking their eyes off the road.

Fuel consumption was modest and we were able to keep it below 6L/100 km in mixed driving scenarios. This and the 44-litre fuel tank means easier daily commutes with fewer trips to the petrol station. The reverse camera makes navigating mall parking lots a treat, and after picking up the groceries you will find that the car unlocks itself without the driver even having to reach for the keys.

Verdict

Compared to previous models and what was expected, the 2 has transformed into a vehicle that will be easy to live with and can transport passengers around comfortably, which together with Mazda’s after sales support and 3 year (unlimited kilometres) warranty it promises to be a simple yet fierce competitor in the compact hatchback segment – Small wonder it made Cars.co.za #CarsAwards compact hatch of the year finalist last year.

Need to know:

• 0-100 kph: 10.4 seconds
  Top Speed: 184 kph
  Price: R286 200
  Top Speed: 184 kph
  Engine: 1.5-litre petrol
  Power: 82 kW 
  Torque: 145 Nm 
  Transmission: 6-speed automatic
  Fuel consumption: 5.7 L/100 km 
  After sales support: 3-year/unlimited km warranty and 3 year/unlimited kilometre service plan