The Mazda 2 is a subcompact car that has been manufactured by Mazda since 2003. It was first introduced in 2003 as a replacement for the Mazda 121. Since its launch, the Mazda 2 has gone through three distinct generations with updates and improvements made along the way.
The first-generation Mazda 2, known by its model code DE, was produced from 2003 to 2007. This original Mazda 2 was available as a 3-door or 5-door hatchback. It shared its platform with the Ford Fiesta at the time.
The second-generation Mazda 2, model code DY, came out in 2007 and was in production until 2014. This generation saw the introduction of a 4-door sedan model along with the hatchback body styles. It featured all-new exterior and interior styling and was the first generation sold in North America.
The current and third generation Mazda 2, model code DJ, first came out in 2014 and is still in production today. This latest generation is slightly bigger than the previous ones and features Mazda’s “Kodo – Soul of Motion” design language. It continues to be offered as a 5-door hatchback.
Over its long production span, the Mazda 2 has been an important subcompact model for the Japanese automaker. It has gone through evolutions in styling, technology, and performance – all of which will be explored in detail across the different generations covered here.
First Generation (DE; 2003–2007)
The first generation Mazda2 went on sale in 2003 for the 2004 model year. It was sold as the Mazda Demio in Japan and was offered as either a 4-door sedan or 5-door hatchback. The first generation Mazda2 was powered by a 1.3L or 1.5L I4 petrol engine paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.
Key specs and dimensions for the first generation Mazda2 include:
- Engine sizes: 1.3L or 1.5L I4
- Power: 84-110 hp
- Length: 159.6 in (4055 mm)
- Width: 66.7 in (1695 mm)
- Height: 59.4 in (1510 mm)
The first generation Mazda2 was offered in various trim levels including Sport, Touring, Activematic, Sport Activematic, and others depending on the market. Standard features included power windows, power steering, and dual front airbags. Higher trim levels added amenities like air conditioning, ABS brakes, side airbags, and alloy wheels (source).
Second Generation (DY; 2007–2014)
The second generation Mazda2 debuted in 2007 featuring an all-new exterior and interior design[1]. This redesign included rounded front corners and an elongated nose for a more aggressive stance. The interior was also updated with higher quality materials and improved ergonomics.
The second generation received several engine upgrades, including a 1.3L or 1.5L petrol engine and a 1.4L or 1.6L diesel engine depending on the market. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. Fuel economy was improved over the previous generation.
New models introduced with the second generation included the 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan body styles. The hatchback was known as the Demio in Japan while the sedan carried the Mazda2 nameplate globally. Other variants like the Verisa in China and the BT-50 in Australia offered slightly different styling and dimensions.
Third Generation (DJ; 2014–Present)
The current third generation Mazda 2 (codenamed DJ) debuted at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. It is based on the SkyActiv architecture first introduced on the larger Mazda 3 model. The DJ shares the same platform as the Toyota Yaris and Scion iA/Toyota Yaris iA.
The current Mazda 2 models include:
- i – The base model with a 1.5L 4-cylinder engine producing 84 hp and 87 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. Standard features include power windows, locks, mirrors, 15″ steel wheels, cloth upholstery, and a 7″ infotainment display.
- i Sport – Adds 16″ alloy wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth, cruise control, and other upgrades over the base i model.
- i Touring – Top i model with leatherette seats, advanced keyless entry, automatic climate control, and other premium features.
- i Grand Touring – Highest DJ trim with 18″ alloy wheels, heated front seats, Bose audio system, active driving display, and additional luxury appointments.
The current generation Mazda 2 has received praise for its premium interior, fun-to-drive character, fuel efficiency, and long list of standard and available equipment. It competes with other subcompact hatchbacks like the Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, Hyundai Accent, and Kia Rio.
Performance
The Mazda 2 offers a range of engine options over its generations. The first generation Mazda 2 from 2003-2007 was available with a 1.3L or 1.5L petrol engine producing between 75-103 hp (Source 1). The second generation from 2007-2014 offered a 1.3L or 1.5L petrol engine with output ranging from 84-100 hp.
The current third generation Mazda 2 first launched in 2014 with a 1.5L Skyactiv-G petrol engine producing either 75, 90 or 115 hp depending on the trim level. More recently, a mild hybrid system was added to the 90 hp 1.5L engine for improved fuel economy (Source 2).
In terms of fuel economy, the latest Mazda 2 models with the 90 hp mild hybrid engine are rated at 60.1 mpg combined by Mazda. The standard 75 hp and 115 hp petrol engines are rated at 58.9 mpg and 54.5 mpg combined respectively. So fuel economy ranges from 47.9-60.1 mpg depending on engine and trim level.
The Mazda 2 has earned praise for its nimble handling and fun-to-drive nature. It has quick and accurate steering, with minimal body roll through corners. The ride is a bit firm but still comfortable. Overall, reviewers note the Mazda 2 offers an engaging driving experience uncommon in its class.
Safety
The Mazda 2 has performed well in crash testing by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), earning a 5-star safety rating. According to ANCAP testing, the Mazda 2 received scores of 90% for adult occupant protection, 87% for child occupant protection, and a score of 75% for pedestrian protection.
The Mazda 2 comes standard with a range of safety features including six airbags, a rearview camera, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and smart brake support. Additional available safety features include adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, driver attention alert, and a head-up display.
Sources:
https://www.ancap.com.au/safety-ratings/mazda/2
Awards & Reviews
The Mazda 2 has won several prestigious awards since its launch, highlighting its combination of fun driving dynamics, efficiency, and value.
Key awards won include:
- Car of the Year in the 2015 Annual Car Dealer Power Awards (https://www.twwhiteandsons.co.uk/car-guides/mazda-2/)
- Car of the Year in the 2014-2015 Japan’s Car of the Year Award
- Best Supermini in Auto Express’ 2014 New Car Awards
- Best City Car in Top Gear Magazine’s 2015 Awards
The Mazda 2 has consistently earned praise from critics for its engaging handling, upscale interior, and fuel efficiency. Reviewers typically describe it as the most fun-to-drive option in the city car segment. While not the cheapest or most spacious car in its class, experts say the Mazda 2 offers an unbeatable blend of value, quality, driving dynamics, and style.
Pricing
The Mazda 2 has had a competitive MSRP over its lifetime. For the first generation models sold between 2003-2007, MSRP ranged from around $12,000-$16,000 depending on trim level and options.
Second generation models sold from 2007-2014 had a starting MSRP around $14,000. Top trim levels approached $18,000.
Current third generation Mazda 2 models have a base MSRP around $15,000, with fully loaded models reaching over $20,000.
On the used market, pricing for the Mazda 2 varies depending on age, mileage, condition and location. According to TrueCar, used Mazda 2 models currently range from $4,999 to $13,599. Mileage on these vehicles ranges from around 32,000 to 167,000 miles.
Based on listings analyzed by CARFAX, the average price for a used Mazda 2 is about $7,443, presenting a good value for used car shoppers.
Competitors
Some of the key competitors to the Mazda 2 over the years include the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Accent, and Kia Rio.
The Honda Fit has long been seen as one of the Mazda 2’s top competitors in the subcompact class. As a nimble and economy-focused subcompact car with distinctive looks, the Toyota Yaris has also posed significant competition for the Mazda 2. Meanwhile, the Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Accent, and Kia Rio all compete with the Mazda 2 for value-conscious shoppers looking for an affordable, entry-level car.
The Mazda 2 aims to differentiate itself from these competitors by emphasizing sleek, sporty styling, more dynamic driving performance, and an upscale interior. However, it faces stiff competition from these models that target similar demographics of younger, urban drivers looking for their first new car. Comparing competitors’ pricing, fuel economy, safety ratings, and features has been key for Mazda 2 shoppers trying to determine which subcompact best fits their needs.
Future Outlook
The future of the Mazda 2 is uncertain, with Mazda declining to confirm a direct replacement model. According to CarsGuide, Mazda has indicated the Mazda 2 may be discontinued in favor of shifting focus and resources to SUVs, which are gaining popularity over small hatchbacks. However, there are rumors that a new generation Mazda 2 may arrive as soon as 2024 with a range extender rotary engine, according to Drive. This next-gen model may help boost sales and interest in the Mazda 2 line. However, Mazda has yet to officially confirm plans for redesigning or replacing the Mazda 2. Its sales prospects remain uncertain in the face of SUV competition and unclear product roadmap.
