The New Mazda - 2 1.5 Sports
Mazda 2 1.5 Sport - It seems like yesterday when Mazda first launched the all new Mazda 2 that sent us journalists scuttling off to delve into the Thesaurus in a quest to find suitable words to describe that rather non-descript car.
That remarkably was back in 2003 and since then we have watched eyes wide open as the Mazda team has restyled reintroduced and in some cases, re-invented all their model range to resounding nods of approval. Now it’s the Mazda2’s turn to undergo massive surgery and the results are quite simply mind-boggling. The first notable thing is the line up has been utterly condensed and now simply comprises of just a three strong model line up with a choice of three petrol engines, 1.3 litre in either 75ps or 86ps forms, plus the flagship 1.5 litre with a 1.4 litre diesel due out later this year.
The 1498 cc in-line 4-cylinder 16-valve DOCH front mounted engine may not be as quick off the mark as you would expect from an engine this size with a top speed of 117 mph and 0-62 in 10.4 seconds
All Mazda2’s come with a five speed manual transmission and five doors but the trim levels have been reduced as well, eliminating the entry level S so now customers are not completely blown away by too much choice as the availability is simply TS, TS2 and top of the range Sport. Even the pricing structure has been simplified with the entry 1.3 TS coming in at a very competitive £8,499 then just add on £1,500 to upgrade to TS2 then a further £1,800 to splash out on the Sport.
The Mazda2's piece de resistance will have to be the weight it has shelved from its predecessor, 100kg in fact. So while other small city cars continue to plough on the pounds making them heavier hence increasing fuel consumption, the Mazda2’s new stealth like figure sees a 15 % reduction in fuel consumption but more agile handling characteristics. So without further ado lets start zooming in on the Mazda 2, 1.5-litre engine mated to the Sport trim that costs £11,499.
Full of curvaceous lines, the new Mazda2 will certainly turn heads in all directions. The beautiful sculptured bonnet sees the stunning huge teardrop light clusters flanking the new grille, body coloured integrated bumper with deep set fog lights and the large honeycomb grille.16-inch alloy wheels cements its purposeful stance while added finishing touches include body colored door handles and door mirrors with black body protection strips including around the bumpers.
Add on the Sports styling kit comprising of front grille, front sports bumper side skirts and of course the rear roof spoiler and this car has to be seen to be believed as the new replacement for the old Mazda2.
Zooming into the Mazda2 and a host of equipment all standard adorns the cabin. Electric windows, electrically adjustable, heated and folded door mirrors, chunky leather clad height adjustable steering wheel with remote audio controls and cruise control sets the tone along with the CD/radio and automatic climate control. The gear lever is centrally mounted that not only make it easier to use, but frees up space between the front seats.
The 1498 cc in-line 4-cylinder 16-valve DOCH front mounted engine may not be as quick off the mark as you would expect from an engine this size with a top speed of 117 mph and 0-62 in 10.4 seconds but it does produce a mighty fine ride that will see you zooming all over the place. The ride and handling is superb thanks to the Dynamic Stability Control that enhances driving stability especially when cornering and during quick manourvers such as overtaking as it virtually eliminates any over or under steering. I loved the power assisted rack and pinion steering that loosens up on low speeds to edge carefully into the parking bays then tightens up at high speeds to give the re-assuring stability. Fuel consumption is an impressive 47.9mpg on a combined cycle while CO2 emissions at another impressive 140g/km.
The Mazda2 offers limited storage solutions such as very slim door pockets with integrated small bottle holder, a small glove compartment albeit with useful divisions, however, the boot is of reasonable size to whiz round the sales but not quite large enough to shop till you drop.
It has just been announced that the Mazda2 has achieved 5-stars in the latest Euro NCAP ratings which is fabulous news proving it is one of the safest cars in the small car segment earning 5-stars for adult protection, 4-stars for child protection and a competitive 2-stars for pedestrian protection. The lightweight extremely rigid bodyshell forms a strong defensive cage around the occupants and is complemented by the extra protection offered by crumple zones and ISOFIX anchorages for the children in the rear. Standard safety equipment includes driver, passengers and curtain airbags with seatbelt pre-tensioners and load limiters while keeping the Mazda2 firmly on the tarmac is ABS with EBD, Emergency Brake Assist and Traction Control. Securing the Mazda2 is a Thatcham Category 1 alarm and Immobiliser thus falls into insurance group 5E.
Well after a week of driving the Mazda2 I am all zoomed out. I had a great time enjoying her attributes, excellent driving dynamics, her precision on the road and basking in all the onboard comforts she came with. Admiring looks from passers by gets me every time.
FemaleFirst - Jackie Violet