Mazda

Wednesday, 1st of October 2008

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Mazda 2 road test report

Mazda 2

The Mazda 2 is a supermini that will be competitive in its segment. The handling and good residual values are its strong points while the suspension is its largest negative.

Performance

Three petrol engines are available, the 1.3-litre and 1.5-litre petrol and the new 1.4-litre diesel. The 1.5-litre engine offers the best acceleration and gives the best performance but the diesel will be the choice of those looking for fuel economy.

Ride & Handling

The Mazda is lithe and quick, it handles and corners well but the suspension lets you feel most of the potholes and bumps in the road. The steering is accurate and helps to make parking a doddle.

Build Quality & Reliability

Mazda’s are built to last, the interior plastics will certainly last but are not ascetically pleasing. There is a definite low-cost feel.

Safety & Security

Front airbags come as standard, as does ABS with brake assist and EBD. Only the TS2 comes with curtain airbags as standard, only the Sport comes the stability control.

Space & Practicality

Plenty of space for four adults, a fifth passenger will find it a tight squeeze. The 250-litre boot is pretty spacious and this can be increased to 787-litres by folding down the rear seats.

Ownership & Value

The running costs of the Mazda 2 will be low thanks to low CO2 emissions and good fuel economy. Insurance groups range from 3 to 7 (the 1.5-litre petrol). Residual values should be around the 45% mark.

Submitted: 01/07/2008 09:52:50

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