Hitting paydirt with the Mazda2

It’s unusual for a car that falls into the supermini category to offer just a single petrol engine choice – even if it does come with three different degrees of punch.

Even more so when that powerplant is a 1.5-litre unit, while popular rivals from brands like Ford, Vauxhall and Volkswagen all start with much smaller, albeit turbocharged, engines.

But in the case of the new Mazda2 it’s a decision in the process of paying off, because when it comes to performance and – more significantly – economy, the Japanese brand has hit paydirt.

Smarter looking, and with a heightened feel of quality compared to its predecessor, the latest ‘2’ boasts a 16-strong range of five-door hatchback models costing from £11,995 to £17,395.

There is a diesel, also a 1.5, while the petrol units comprise outputs of 75, 90 and 115PS and either five or six-speed manual transmissions or a six-speed automatic.

SKYACTIV technology has made the Mazda2 efficient and economical

The tested model from bang in the middle of the five trim grades – SE, SE-L, SE-L Nav, Sport and Sport Nav – featured the 90PS petrol engine that’s already proving to be one of the top sellers.

Emitting low CO2 emissions of 105g/km is an attraction in itself, but to have the potential for an average 62.8mpg from an engine like this is testament to the fuel-saving SKYACTIV technology that Mazda has placed so much faith in.

The engine feels really sweet in everyday conditions and responds instantly when you need a quick kick; head out on the motorway and there’s lots of power on tap for a small car and its dynamics are very positive.

After a week of mixed but predominantly urban driving my own fuel return was just below the 50mpg mark, a very acceptable figure.

Stylish cabin in the Mazda2

That’s from a car that has plenty of feelgood factor built in. For instance there’s a classy feel to the cabin, which is also comfortable and spacious.

The instruments and upholstery also feel durable and likely to survive heavy-handed family use, even as the car gets older.

Standard equipment, too, is extensive for a mid-grade model, the likes of leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearknob, steering wheel-mounted audio and Bluetooth controls, 7-inch colour touch-screen, Multimedia Commander, DAB radio and integrated navigation system with 3-years free European map updates all included.

You also get rear electric windows, cruise control, adjustable speed limiter, lane departure warning system, smart city brake support.
Metallic paint adds £530, which in the case of the tested model raises the tab to £14,295, and that’s plenty even for a supermini as accomplished as the Mazda2.

Night moves with the Mazda2