Mazda 2 (2002 - 2007)
Ratings
3 stars
Summary
Average. A practical-but-dull supermini which drives well but feels under-equipped compared to rivals.
Review
As you'd expect, Mazda's perpetually irritating "Zoom-Zoom" philosophy has made the 2 a fun-to-drive entry level supermini. It was one of the largest cars in the segment when it first came out, although more recent rivals have out-grown it, but it still offers plenty of practical appeal, too.
Compared to the rest of the Mazda range the 2's design is disappointingly dull, with generic Japanese styling and little in the way of carpark appeal. The cabin is spacious but finished in some very cheap-feeling materials, while basic versions really lack equipment - despite wearing fairly substantial pricetags.
On the road the 2 acquits itself well with an impressively sharp driving experience and reasonable comfort. Like it's cousin, the Ford Fiesta, this is a car that can put a smile on your face over a twisty country road. Refinement is okay by supermini standards, but motorway cruising still gets pretty loud.
There are three petrol engines and one diesel to choose between. The entry-level 1.25 litre petrol motor makes up for in enthusiasm what it lacks in outright urge, and the mid-ranking 1.4 litre unit is barely more rapid. If you can stretch to the range-topping 1.6 litre petrol then it does at least give the 2 a decent turn of speed, at the cost of indifferent fuel economy. The 1.4 litre diesel engine is very economical, but it's also loud and slow.
Ratings Breakdown
Styling
2 star
Disappointingly bland for the company that brought us the handsome 6 and the gorgeous RX-8.
Handling
4 star
The sharp, responsive chassis offers an enthusiastic driving experience and the 2 also copes well with motorway cruising.
Comfort
3 star
The driving position isn't the most comfortable over longer journeys, but at least the ride quality is reasonable.
Quality & Reliability
2 star
The plasticy cabin is tough enough to withstand young families, but it's a gloomy place to spend time in.
Performance
3 star
The basic 1.25 petrol is zingy enough for town use, and the 1.4 litre unit is barely any quicker, while the expensive 1.6 is a bit thirsty for a supermini, too. The diesel is loud but very frugal.
Roominess
4 star
There's plenty of room for four adults in the cabin and, although the boot isn't particularly big, the rear seats collapse easily to create some serious luggage space.
Running Costs
4 star
Cheap insurance, decently priced servicing and reasonable residuals mean that more basic versions are cheap to run.
Value for money
3 star
Poor standard equipment means the 2 struggles to match the appeal of rivals. Alloy wheels and air conditioning aren't standard until near the top of the range.
