What I liked about the Mazda2:
- Surprisingly refined and pleasant to drive
- Small, agile and maneuverable
- Attractive styling
- Good value
What I didn't like:
- Small back seat and trunk
- 5-door hatchback is the only body style offered
- Limited options list
Who should buy the Mazda2:
Buyers looking for a small, inexpensive car with a big, grown-up feel
Who should not buy the Mazda2:
Those who need maximum cargo space or maximum fuel economy
Details and specs:
- Body style: 5-door hatchback
- Seating capacity: 4
- Trim levels: Sport, Touring
- Price range: $14,730 - $17,185 plus options
- Base engine: 1.5 liter inline 4-cylinder, 100 hp @ 6,000 RPM, 98 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM
- Optional engine: None
- Premium fuel required? No
- Transmission: 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic
- Driveline: Front engine, front-wheel-drive
- EPA fuel economy estimates: 29 MPG city/35 MPG highway (manual), 27/33 (automatic)
- Trunk space: 13.3 cu. ft.
- Where built:Japan
- Standard safety equipment: Front airbags, front-seat-mounted side airbags, two-row side curtain airbags, antilock brakes, electronic stability control
- Optional safety equipment: None
- Major standard features: Power windows, mirrors and locks, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, 4-speaker CD stereo
- Major options: Alloy wheels, fog lights, 6-speaker stereo, cruise control, upgraded seat cloth, leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper, 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain, 5 years/unlimited mileage outer body rust-through
- Roadside assistance/free maintenance: 3 years/36,000 miles roadside assistance
Best rivals:
Disclosure: This test drive was conducted at a manufacturer-sponsored press event. Travel, accommodations, meals, test vehicles and fuel were provided by Mazda. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.
