Get social with me on Twitter and Instagram @DanielCalbacho

The Mazda2 had a little product tweaking back in 2018 after its initial launch in 2014. Just before 2020 arrived, so too did the facelifted version of the car.

The Mazda2 now features a new, more sophisticated design, new Skyactiv-Technologies and enhanced i-Activsense safety features.

With a very capable 1.5L petrol engine in both manual and automatic transmissions, the range consists of six derivatives made up of the Active (entry spec), Dynamic (mid spec) and Individual and Hazumi (high spec) grade levels.

On board, materials and colour schemes present as high quality giving the cabin a cosseted luxury feel. In-cabin quietness has improved and increased that the sense of calm too.

Comfort and convenience on board have been improved through the availability of the Bluetooth hands-free system across the range, from the Dynamic model –  auto-dimming rear-view mirror, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), for smoother vehicle movements and handling.

A new front-seat design offers ideal occupant posture to minimise fatigue, enhance the feeling of connection with the car and make driving sportier and more comfortable. Meanwhile, the leather and cloth combination seat trim, front and rear chrome bumper strip and shark fin antenna from the Individual derivative enhance the cars aesthetics, giving it a quality and stylish finish.

There are new 15” silver metallic alloy wheels on the Dynamic model and high-gloss painted 16” alloy wheels from the Individual derivative.

An expanded range of advanced safety features now includes LED headlamps fitted as standard across the model range. Side and curtain airbags, auto dimming rear-view mirror from the Dynamic model. Auto fold mirrors, reverse camera, rear parking sensors from the Individual model and Rear Cross Traffic Alert on the Hazumi.

Little city cars can sometimes feel just that - little. That sensation can potentially leave the car’s driver underwhelmed and believing they are less than safe as opposed to driving a larger vehicle. I am happy to say this little Mazda does the opposite. With all the upgrades, you also get a reassured drive that leaves you feeling like you got bang for your buck. The Mazda2 sits confidently on the road, comfortably manoeuvring around the city’s challenging roads with aplomb. 

The Mazda2 has good levels of road grip for sprightly darts around corners, though it is not a sports car –  the Mazda MX5 is best left for hairpin cornering escapades. The suspension is such that rough road setups are minimised without the Mazda2 feeling like a marshmallow.

The Madza2 is an accomplished city car: Happy to drive through less than perfect road conditions and outpace its competition in a sprint. The 1.5L petrol engine has a maximum power of 82 kW and 145 Nm of torque. All models are driven via either a 6-speed manual or automatic gearbox. Fuel consumption sits around the 6.6l/100km level for the petrol. These figures combine both a mixture of highway and urban driving cycles.

So, would I buy the Mazda2? I’d certainly consider it and certainly shortlist it. It’s a great all-rounder with a willingness to please.

Service and warranty 

The Mazda2 range is sold with a 3-year unlimited kilometre service plan. To provide complete peace of mind motoring, a 3-year factory warranty, a 3-year roadside assistance and a 5-year Corrosion Warranty are also included.

Pricing

Mazda2 1.5L Active Hatch Manual  R261,900

Mazda2 1.5L Dynamic Hatch Manual  R286,000 | Auto – R302,300

Mazda2 1.5L Individual Hatch Manual  R310,700 | Auto – R326,900

Mazda2 1.5L Hazumi Hatch Auto  R351,100

My Choice

Mazda2 1.5L Individual Hatch Manual  R310,700 

www.mazda.co.za