What is it?
This is the facelifted Mazda 2, a car we’ve already driven on its launch but tested here for the first time in the UK. Autocar could be accused of not shouting loudly enough about the Mazda 2. It’s a great car that offers excellent value, but it’s the Fiesta and Polo that steal the class headlines. Mazda, then, is no doubt hoping that this mid-life facelift, which includes styling changes inside and out along with slightly softer suspension, will go some way towards raising the 2’s profile.
The engine line-up consists of two petrol options (1.3-litre with 74 or 83bhp and a 101bhp 1.5-litre) and a diesel (a 94bhp 1.6), all of which are now Euro 5 compliant. As with the car tested at launch, this car came with the 1.5-litre petrol mated to a new four-speed automatic gearbox.
The 1.5 is the only engine in the range available that gets the auto option, but Mazda believes it’s going to be a big seller in the UK both as a Motability scheme choice and thanks to the car’s popularity with driving schools. We, it has to be said, would have preferred to try the car with a manual transmission…
See pics of the Mazda 2 1.5 TS2 in action
What’s it like?
In short, it’s a cracking car and still great fun to drive despite a slight softening of the suspension. The steering is quick and direct, and the ride pliant and composed. Yes, it will thump and bang a bit over urban potholes but frankly we’d be surprised if it didn’t.
Join the debate
TegTypeR
Re: Mazda 2 1.5 TS2
I tested a pre facelifted model a while back and found it a genuinely likeable car and far better than the Fiesta with which it shares its floorpan.
Whilst the auto version is far from the preferable choice, I certainly wouldn't feel short changed if I had to drive this version on a daily basis.
It's all about the twisties........
bomb
Re: Mazda 2 1.5 TS2
[quote TegTypeR]a genuinely likeable car and far better than the Fiesta with which it shares its floorpan[/quote]
I'd second that. This would be my supermini of choice, if I had to make that choice! But not with the slushmatic tested here...
catnip
Re: Mazda 2 1.5 TS2
I've always liked this car, and given the choice would probably choose this over the Fiesta, but for one thing. It just doesn't have enough legroom at the wheel for me, whereas the Fiesta does..
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