Driven: 2020 Mazda2
Mazda is a Japanese auto brand that always finds themselves falling short of their local competitors, Honda, and Toyota. Now why, is a question that boils down to cars that they have pushed out over the recent years, hell it was only until the new CX-5, that people started to give Mazda the attention they deserve.
Mazda has now also shifted their focus to the hatchback market, and in doing so they have upgraded and modernized the Mazda2. Now let’s be honest with each other right now, when we think of a hatchback, you will most likely find yourself thinking of the VW Polo or Ford Fiesta. It is very rare that the Mazda2 will come out of someone’s mouth. We recently got to spend some time with the new Mazda2 and trust me when I say, once you get a full experience of this little hatchback, you will most likely find yourself spreading a good word about it.
My first impression of Mazda2 is that it looks good. It keeps a cool sporty hatchback style and is certainly quite a looker. The Mazda2 is available in a five-door hatchback or a four-door sedan. I prefer the hatchback and that’s because I think it certainly can compete with its competitors. The exterior of the Mazda is a new revised grille and LED headlamps, which certainly makes the appearance look a lot fresher. At the rear, you will notice that the taillamps have received an update. Judging from the outside it was easy to tell that Mazda certainly kept the younger market in mind when they decided to give the Mazda2 this fresh facelift. The Mazda2 does come in 8 different colour choices, with Eternal Blue Mica being my favourite. Like many hatchbacks, the Mazda2 will ride on its standard 16-inch alloy wheels.
When it comes to engine capacity, we can always rely on Mazda to make a fuel-efficient vehicle. The Mazda2 will come with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 85kW of power, depending of course on the model you choose. On the road, however, the Mazda2 offers a good drive and is very fuel-efficient. Our test unit came with a six-speed manual gearbox, which in my opinion, really gives you a full experience of driving a hatchback.
So, to those who have noticed, the Mazda2 will carry a bigger price tag than the previous, and justifiably so. It's not because it is the latest model from the Mazda2 but because it comes with an upgraded interior too. On the inside, we have a full colour touchscreen that displays Mazda’s MZD Connect infotainment system. Users have access to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone mirroring, radio, AUX, Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls and audio streaming as well as USB inputs. Another key factor in the price tag increases is the City-speed autonomous emergency braking. This comes with blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Some basic modern features that the new Mazda2 has are keyless entry, push-button start, and a multifunctional leather steering wheel that operates your phone, cruise control, and the sound system.
Pricing
Mazda2 1.5L Active 6MT 5-Dr R275,100
Mazda2 1.5L Dynamic 6MT 5-Dr R300,500
Mazda2 1.5L Dynamic 6AT 5-Dr R317,600
Mazda2 1.5L Individual 6MT 5-Dr R326,500
Mazda2 1.5L Individual 6AT 5-Dr R343,500
Mazda2 1.5L Hazumi 6AT 5-Dr R368,900
Also worth a look: the Mazda Gives the CX-3 a Tech and Style Boost for 2026 and the Mazda Cx 60.
FAQ
Q: What does the 2020 Mazda2 cost in South Africa?
The 2020 Mazda2 starts from around R299,900 for the base 1.5 Active model, with the top-spec 1.5 Individual sitting closer to R369,900, making it competitively priced against the VW Polo and Ford Fiesta in the local hatchback market.
Q: Is the 2020 Mazda2 worth buying over a VW Polo?
The Mazda2 offers better styling and a more refined interior than the Polo at similar money, plus Mazda's excellent build quality, but the Polo has stronger resale value and wider service network coverage across South Africa.
Q: How fuel efficient is the 2020 Mazda2?
The 1.5-litre engine delivers around 5.4 litres per 100km in mixed driving conditions, making it one of the most fuel-efficient hatchbacks you can buy in South Africa today.
Q: What engine does the 2020 Mazda2 have?
The 2020 Mazda2 comes with a single 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 85kW of power and 148Nm of torque, paired with either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.
Q: How reliable is the Mazda2 compared to Toyota and Honda?
Mazda's reliability has improved significantly over recent years and the 2020 Mazda2 is built to the same high standards as Toyota and Honda, though it doesn't quite match their legendary long-term durability reputation in South African conditions.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, the 2020 Mazda2 is absolutely worth buying if you want the best-looking hatchback under R370,000 in South Africa. At R299,900 for the entry-level model, it offers more style, better interior quality, and superior driving dynamics than both the VW Polo and Ford Fiesta. The 85kW 1.5-litre engine provides adequate punch for South African roads while delivering excellent fuel economy of 5.4L/100km. Sure, the Polo might hold its value better and Toyota's reliability reputation is stronger, but the Mazda2 gives you premium feel at mainstream money. If you're buying with your heart and want to stand out from the Polo crowd, the Mazda2 is your best bet in this price bracket.
