Category: Superminis 
Price Range: No data available
Cheeky but sophisticated design, clever cabin storage, light weight for good economy, refined engine, fun to drive, good ride.
Plasticky interior surfaces, steering could be more precise, cabin storage lacks non-slip mats, no side airbags in entry-level model.
Light, nimble, good looking and cleverly thought-out: exactly what a modern supermini should be.
Light weight means low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, and the official test cycle shows an average of 52.3mpg and 129g/km for the two 1.3s, 47.9mpg and 140g/km for the 1.5, so they'll be cheap to fuel and light on tax. The forthcoming diesel will be even more frugal but no figures are available yet.
As for the 1.3s, the only reasons to buy the 75bhp rather than the 86bhp version are a lower purchase price and insurance group (3E, compared with the 86bhp's 4E). Maintenance costs should be low as these are simple cars undemanding of workshop time. The petrol engines all have chain-driven camshafts so there will be no cambelt changes to worry about.The Mazda 2 might have undergone a rigorous diet but nothing is obviously missing - apart from side airbags in the 1.3 TS, which also does without air conditioning. It's otherwise a complete little car, and a cute one with it.
