A Fusion of Ford-ness?: The 2014 Mazda 2 Review

2014 Mazda 2 Review

Background

Selling about 25% of all Mazda sales in the UK, the Mazda 2 rolled onto the UK roads in 2003, seen then as a Ford Fusion replica. However, in 2007, its second generation follow-up strut its mettle as a model of its own despite some underlying semblances to Ford Fiesta.

Mazda put in a lot of work to sell this car. For instance, in 2011, they decided to stiffen its body that is composed of strong but ultra-light steel. They put in an auto Activematic variant option to woo the urban market. This was a good decision on their part as can be evidenced by feedback from sales.

Driving Experience

2014 Mazda 2

The 2014 Mazda 2 is one of those very fuel-efficient and eco-friendly rides you have been looking for. You have choice of a 1.3-litre petrol or the 1.5-litre one. The 1.3-litre petrol gives you two further options: 75 or 84 PS. The 1.5 litre will do 102 PS and it comes with an automatic gearbox option. Both are Euro 5-compliant.

This car is one light-feel feat on the road. High-mounted, the gear lever is a joystick at your tap that shifting gears is a breeze you will enjoy. With a quick-acting steering wheel and on-road stability, this is a drive you will enjoy. The Mazda 2 keeps its promise to you give you great performance. For instance, you can jump to 62mph in 14.9 seconds with the 75PS 1.3 TS, taking you up to 104mph. On the other hand, 84PS 1.3 Tamura is faster at 13.6 seconds and will go on to 106mph.

The 2014 Mazda 2 has distinct feel and look from its original version. Most prominent is the body work which has been stiffened. The front suspension geometry has been tweaked and the rear dampers have been revised. This combined modification has greatly improved the car’s handling, giving you that “stay-on-the-ground” feel as you cruise the machine. For those in the city, you can best go for the 102PS 1.5-litre petrol that will help you tackle the hustle and bustle of city streets since it comes with a four-speed automatic transmission gearbox option.

Design and Build

This is a very good car for parents who might have young children. It’s a five-door family thingy with ISOFIX fastenings to make it easier for your child seat. The backseat is fitted with three seat belts although a long journey might not be that comfortable with three adults there.

Mazda did a great job to the exterior of the 2014 Mazda 2 . It’s such a stylish design. Comparing to the original version, the 2014 Mazda 2 is a real and total revised edition. It has a smarter nose. The front fog lamps are beautifully bevelled and its struts on striking wheels.

The interior is equally a good work-over from the original car. This is a total re-invention. The instrument panel is a total contrast to the one in the original model. In the Mazda 2, the panel is a classier design work showing off “blackout” finished dials and chrome rings. The seats are as cosy as they are beautiful designed in bright seat fabric colours and smart patterns that are unique to the car.

Market and Model

Presently, there is only the five-door Mazda 2 on the market and you will drive it away for between £11,000 and £13,000. A lot of work has been put into the design and build of this car that it will confidently rival its peers, such as Peugeot’s 208, Renault’s Clio, Ford’s Fiesta and Vauxhall’s Corsa.

The 2014 Mazda 2 rolls out of the showroom inclusive of such extras as remote central locking, air-conditioning and a Thatcham Category One alarm regardless of whether it’s a 1.3 or 1.5-litre petrol engine. It is also equipped with a good quality MP3-compatible CD stereo that has an auxiliary jack. However, only the front windows are electrically-operated. It also has power mirrors. With emergency brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, as well ABS, the Mazda 2 is a good buy at that price.

Cost of Ownership

Fuel economy for the two petrol units is quite good, taking the thought of a diesel engine out of the picture. The 1.3-litre petrol will normally do 56.5mpg while the 1.5-litre automatic will use 44.8mpg.

The 1.3-litre petrol is the best choice for those that want to make a saving on road tax because it is zero-rated for the first year since it is a C-band rated. After that you cough out £30 a year. For insurance, you will find it a little higher than rival in the 9E to 12E groupings. However, this is compensated for by strong residuals due to the car’s reliability and durability as well as its impressive build quality.

In terms of warranty, all models are guaranteed for three years or first 60,000 miles. You also get European Roadside Assistance for the first three years.

Summary

Although it doesn’t make it on the supermini buyers’ top 5 choice list, the 2014 Mazda 2 is a sporty convenient car that pushes unnecessarily complex small cars off the list of die-for superminis. It’s a buy you will not regret. Every expert highly recommends this car.

If you want to get hold of the 2014 Mazda 2 then don’t hesitate to leave us a message on our contact us page or give us a call on 01903 538835 to find out about our Mazda lease deals.