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.
This is a roomy little car with adult-size rear-seat space (including foot room under the front seats), a decent boot despite the stubby tail, and lots of storage space. The glovebox is the best bit. It's usefully deep, and the lid is formed into a separate 'magazine rack' accessible even when the glovebox is shut.
Offsetting the handbrake towards the driver makes space for a handbag next to it, and there are cup/bottle holders in each front door pocket and another below the gear lever in which an ash/sweet wrapper tray can reside. It's a shame the several flat storage areas and trays don't have a non-slip surface, though. The rear seat's backrest has an asymmetric split, but when folded down it creates quite a step in the load floor. There's an external solenoid button for opening the tailgate.
Engine and road noise are low for a small car, especially in the back, and there's an effective air-con system with simple rotary controls - either manual or automatic depending on trim and the options list. You can have a jack socket for an MP3 player, too, and Sport models get electric folding mirrors controlled by a switch.
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.
