To help fill the gap within our fleet as more and more hatchbacks are getting discontinued like the Ford Fiesta. We are introducing the Mazda 2!
Auto Express says that ‘it meets VW’s top-quality polo and Ford’s fun Fiesta’, Both the Mazda 2 and the Ford fiesta share the same Ford engine giving it that ‘fun Fiesta’ feel. We think it is quite similar size and shape to the manual Toyota Yaris with an interior similar to a polo.
Interior
Inside the Mazda 2, it gives that high quality premium feel due to both the steering and gear knob being leather-wrapped, the soft-touch materials give the indication that the vehicle has been made and designed with attention to detail.
There is a good range of adjustment for the front seats and steering wheel, perfect for drivers of all heights. Mazda has stuck with the traditional dash that uses a one large circular analogue in the middle of the dash with 2 smaller digital displays either side.
The infotainment system is not touchscreen, instead the 8.0-inch display can be operated with the rotary controller set behind the gear lever.
Below the infotainment screen that sits in the center of the dash are ventilation controls. Like Mazda’s traditional drivers dash, they have also kept it quite traditional with the ventilation controls by using simple round dial.
Despite the smaller dimensions of the backseats compared to the front, two adults could comfortably fit. However, 3 adults would find it a little cozy.
Practically and comfort
Mazda gives you a couple of cup holders that are big enough for large takeaway cups, as well as a cubby for your phone with two USB-C sockets ahead of the gear-lever.
Getting into the Mazda 2 is a very simple operation as the front doors open wide. The driver’s seat in every model has height adjustment, so you can fine tune the position to suit any size of occupant. It also slides back quite far, so taller drivers are looked after, and there’s a good amount of head, leg and shoulder space.
The speedo is visible to both the driver and the passenger, making it a perfect fit for driving instructors. The small hatchback
Boot
At 280 litres with the rear seats in place, the Mazda 2’s boot is far from the most generous in its class. Mazda further compounds this with a high load sill and a small tailgate opening. When you want to boost the load capacity, the rear seats are split 60:40 and tip forwards but leave a large step from load floor to folded seat back. All in, the Mazda 2 can carry up to 950 litres at max capacity.
Performance and visibility
Performance
Driving around town centres the Mazda 2 has a good steering feel, it can turn tight circles easily and hassle free for the driver giving the general feeling of ease. It also offers better vision in all directions than moat of the cars in its class.
Its set-up suspension allows the vehicle to feel very stable and secure at motorway speeds, even in crosswind which can be unusual for small hatchback vehicles.
On windy country lanes Mazda is well known for its handling and the Mazda 2 is no different, it eagerly turns into bends and holds its line well. Good steering feel is up there alongside the Ford Fiesta, and the Mazda 2 always has a sure-footed feel as you switch directions on curving roads.
Visibility
Visibility out of the front windscreen is generous due to the relatively slim window pillars, allowing the driver to see more clearly and reducing their blind spot. Rear visibility is relatively clear but is restricted slightly by the slanting roof line, however it is fitted parking sensors as standards and the Exclusive-Line comes with a rear-view camera.
See our full range of dual-control cars for hire and dual-control cars for sale.