A supermini that can appeal to the head as well as the heart
Now employing the same ‘Kodo’ design language - which means the Soul of Motion - as larger models in the Mazda range, and now in its second generation in South Africa, the Mazda2 is the most stylish and distinctive small hatchback the firm has offered SA buyers. With its sights aimed squarely at the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, Renault Clio and Opel Corsa, the Mazda2 had to bring its A-game to compete in the super competitive subcompact segment.
Mazda has gone to great lengths to enhance the new 2’s refinement levels. Great care has been taken to minimise all kinds of exterior noise from entering the cabin, the sense of calm amplified by the comfort-biased suspension. Everything feels well-assembled and robust inside the 2’s spacious cabin, although those who favour soft-touch plastics will be hard-pressed to find any.
Two motors are offered in South Africa. The single 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol variant with Skyactiv technology, and the diesel model. While the 82kw petrol unit powers most of the range, and is barely audible at idle speeds; the flagship is an equally sized diesel motor that puts out 77kw and 220nm, but mated to a smooth-shifting automatic transmission makes this relaxed sportster a very interesting proposition. Claimed fuel economy is as low as 4.4 litres per 100kms in the diesel 2, while mid 5s are expected in the petrol derivative.
With light steering, progressive brakes and its small footprint, the Mazda2 is a good town car. Take the Mazda2 out on a weekend blast, and you will find you have a grin as big as the grill on the front of the car as you flick through the cogs and carve your way through the bends, which will end all too soon. The Mazda2 has to be up there with the class-leading Ford Fiesta for its handling. All models feature an electronic stability control system and six airbags.
While condensing the dynamic styling of the Kodo design language to match its compact size, the packaging for the Mazda2 is carefully designed to provide driving pleasure, a comfortable cabin environment and easy-to-use features. Stylistically the new 2’s interior isn’t dissimilar to the new MX-5 sports car, with a driver-focused section Mazda calls the cockpit zone, and a wider section in front of the passenger. The reasoning is that driver distraction is minimised with all the key information directly in front of them, while controls for the air-con and infotainment system, which aren’t looked at as frequently, are to the side where the front passenger can access them equally well.
Can the Mazda2 escape the shadow of the Fiesta, Corsa and Polo? It certainly deserves to. With a smart exterior and interior, plenty of kit and low running costs, there’s nothing to rule it out. The Mazda2 scores highly in enough areas to make it worthy of a place on your shortlist. On top of these things, the Mazda 2 is enjoyable to drive without suffering from the poor refinement of its predecessor. The range topping Hazumi diesel is priced at R338 200, while the petrol engine range starts from R219 500 to R292 000 dependent on trim level. All come standard with a 3-year maintenance plan and a 3-year unlimited kilometre factory warranty.
FAQ
Q: What does the Mazda2 cost in South Africa?
The Mazda2 starts from around R289,900 for the base 1.5 Dynamic petrol model, while the range-topping 1.5 Individual auto diesel sits at approximately R349,900, making it competitive against the Polo and Fiesta in the supermini segment.
Q: Is the Mazda2 worth buying in 2024?
Absolutely, the Mazda2 offers excellent build quality, impressive fuel economy of 4.4L/100km in diesel form, and handling that rivals the class-leading Ford Fiesta, plus you get six airbags and stability control as standard across the range.
Q: How fuel efficient is the Mazda2?
The diesel Mazda2 achieves a claimed 4.4 litres per 100km, while the 1.5-litre petrol variants deliver fuel consumption in the mid-5L/100km range, making both engines exceptionally economical for daily commuting.
Q: What engine options are available in the Mazda2?
Mazda offers two 1.5-litre Skyactiv engines: an 82kW naturally aspirated petrol unit across most of the range, and a 77kW diesel motor producing 220Nm that comes exclusively with a smooth automatic transmission.
Q: How does the Mazda2 compare to the Volkswagen Polo?
The Mazda2 matches the Polo's refinement but offers superior handling dynamics, better standard safety equipment with six airbags, and more distinctive Kodo styling, though the Polo edges ahead in interior material quality.
Should You Buy It?
The best small hatchback under R350,000 in South Africa is the Mazda2, particularly the diesel automatic at R349,900. You get exceptional fuel economy, engaging handling that puts a grin on your face, solid build quality, and comprehensive safety kit. The diesel's 220Nm torque makes city driving effortless, while the smooth auto gearbox adds to the premium feel. Yes, you should buy it, especially if you want a supermini that appeals to both your practical side and your driving enthusiasm. The only reason to hesitate would be if soft-touch plastics are a deal-breaker, but at this price point, the Mazda2's combination of style, economy, and driving dynamics makes it a compelling choice over the Polo or Fiesta.
