Mazda2 hatchback (2007 – ) expert review

1. Exterior

Telling the new Mazda2 from its predecessor requires an eagle eye – considering the previous model scored well, it’s a good thing hasn’t fiddled about with the car’s styling too much. Changes include new front fog lights, re-designed alloy wheels and a Sport version, as well as a new front bumper, which incorporates the new Mazda ‘family face’, which debuted earlier this year on the Mazda5 and 6.

Our rating: 4

2. Interior

The interior doesn’t look as distinctive as the exterior, but everything’s neatly laid out and easy to use. There’s a new instrument cluster and the quality of the materials have been improved, making them more durable. Yet the overall effect is good rather than outstanding, while the fit and finish is also fine rather than impressive. What’s not so good is the level of comfort on offer, as the seats are rather flat and unsupportive. The steering column isn’t adjustable for reach, although it does adjust for height, while the driver’s seat can be raised or lowered on all models.

Our rating: 3

3. Practicality

You can order your Mazda2 in three- or five-door guise, but order a base model and you’ll get fixed rear seats. However, all models from the second-level TS2 come with foldable rear seats. Tipping the rear seatback forward couldn’t be easier, but once it’s stowed the boot floor isn’t flat – there’s actually quite a step in it. The boot can stow 250 litres – fold the seats and this rises to 469 litres, or 787 if you go right to the roofline. That’s behind the Renault Clio (288 and 1038 litres) and the Ford Fiesta (295 and 979 litres).

Our rating: 3

4. Ride and handling

Even though the Mazda2 has always been great to drive, the new version features revised settings for the rear suspension. It’s better overall, with comfort and body control both still strong points most of the time. On rolling roads though the car can feel a bit wallowy and it does bounce over harsher bumps. However, you won’t be disappointed with the steering, which is sharp and precise, and ensures that every drive is good fun.

Our rating: 4

5. Performance

The Activematic automatic transmission is offered with the 1.5-litre petrol engine only. It’s nippy and happy to cruise at motorway speeds, but when you press the accelerator nothing happens, so you keep pressing further and further until it changes down a gear or two, the revs shoot towards the red line, and you take off. As long as you don’t suddenly need a burst of speed it’s excellent though, capable of 0-62mph in 11.9 seconds and 105mph flat out. Stick with a manual gearboxand you’ll have a 115mph capability plus 0-62mph in 10.7 seconds. Best all-rounder though is the 1.6 diesel, with its 109mph and 12.5-second 0-62mph time.

Our rating: 3

6. Running costs

As a supermini, one of the attractions of the 2 is its low running costs. Purchase costs are relatively low, its used car value is strong, while insurance and servicing shouldn’t break the bank. Fuel consumption is another strong point – but not exceptional. The 1.6-litre diesel will average 67.3mpg with CO2 emissions of 110g/km while the 1.3 petrol is pitched at 55.4mpg and 119g/km. The 1.5-litre petrol is available with a manual gearbox, and can supposedly average 48.7mpg but we failed to replicate anything close to this. The 1.5 auto is pegged at just 44.8mpg and we managed just 34mpg.

Our rating: 3

7. Reliability

Mazda has a reputation for building some of the most dependable cars available, and since this generation of the Mazda2 first arrived, there have been no major problems. Some cars have proved to feature weak rear wheel bearings, while alarm systems can go off for no reason. But both issues are easily fixed under warranty, by switched-on dealers.

Our rating: 4

8. Safety

The Mazda 2 was awarded a five-star EuroNCAP rating when it was first tested, which gives an indication of how strong it is. However, the test was carried out in 2007 and things have been tightened up since then – it wouldn’t get a five-star rating now. The base model doesn’t come with electronic stability programme (ESP) or side and curtain airbags – you have to move up to range-topping Sport for the former, although Activematic cars get it too. All come with anti-lock brakes (ABS), brake assist and and front airbags for the driver and front-seat passenger.

Our rating: 3

9. Equipment

There are four trim levels: TS, TS2, Tamura and Sport. Entry-level Mazda2s are badged TS and come with air-con, electric front windows, remote central locking, CD/tuner with auxiliary input and electrically operated mirrors. The TS2 adds 15-inch alloy wheels, leather multi-function steering wheel, trip computer and extra speakers. To this the Tamura adds 16-inch alloys and a body styling kit. Range-topping models come with sports seats, automatic lights and wipers, cruise control, climate control plus electric rear windows on five-door models.

Our rating: 3

10. Why buy?

Well-equipped, good-looking and reliable, the Mazda2 makes a lot of sense. Used values are competitive too, while it’s decently practical too – especially in five-door form. It may not be able to compete with the Ford Fiesta with which it’s related, or the Volkswagen Polo. But its distinctive looks and great drivability help it stand out from the crowd in this, one of the most competitive markets. Visit the Mazda website now for more information on the Mazda2.

Our rating: 3