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Mazda 2 1.5 Skyactiv G Sport 5dr Auto Review

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The mild-hybrid 89bhp e-Skyactiv G engine doesn't have a turbocharger and you have to work it harder than rival cars to get the best out of it. It’s not too bad at low revs but quickly wanes once you’re off the line, causing you to hold each gear for longer.

1.5 Skyactiv G

Hatchback

Mazda can be summed up in a single word: bold. Not only do its cars generally look like nothing else on the market, but it’s also invested heavily in innovative engine technology.

So, while many car makers have moved to smaller turbocharged engines, Mazda instead offers larger motors that are still efficient. For example, the entry-level petrol option in the Mazda 3 is a 2.0-litre unit –&nbsp;far larger than what you’ll find in most rivals – but it remains very clean.

Highlights of Mazda’s line-up include the MX-5 sports car, which has won our Convertible of the Year Award multiple times, and the CX-5 large SUV, which was named as our inaugural best car for dog owners.

MAZDA

Building on entry-level SE-L trim, Sport models get bigger 16in alloy wheels, signature LED headlights and daytime running lights, drive mode selection, wireless Apple CarPlay, exterior styling tweaks, privacy glass and keyless entry.

Sport

1.5 Skyactiv G Sport 5dr Auto

15-skyactiv-g-sport-5dr-auto

Electric adjustable/heated/folding door mirrors

Thatcham accredited alarm and immobiliser

Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto

Electric front/rear windows with one touch auto up/down for driver's window

Front dual stage driver and single stage front passenger airbags

Mazda 2

The Mazda 2 has a reasonably plush interior and very economical engines, when it comes to real-world fuel economy. All but the basic trim level offers a reasonable standard of equipment, too. Yet these days it has been overtaken by much newer models. Rivals that include the Seat Ibiza offer more space, better handling, a more comfortable ride, and greater refinement.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Spacious enough for four adults to sit comfortably</li> <li>Logically laid-out interior that doesn’t</li> <li>feel too cheap</li> <li>Mature driving manners </li> <li>Decent-sized boot</li> <li>Competitive buying and running costs</li></ul>

Small cars, or superminis as they’re also known, used to be bought almost exclusively as first cars or by people with no children – but the likes of the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/fiesta/hatchback/review/n106">Ford Fiesta</a>, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/seat/ibiza/hatchback/review/n17359">Seat Ibiza</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/polo/hatchback/review/n83">Volkswagen Polo</a> have grown to the point where they can be considered all-round family transport, albeit with the odd compromise.

The Fiesta remains a star of the class, thanks to its strong Ecoboost petrol engines and suspension settings that are beautifully judged for British roads. However, the latest Volkswagen offers even more practicality, decent performance and a classy interior that has the edge on the Ford’s for quality.

Any of these models will be a competent commuter car – especially if fitted with one of the increasingly popular small turbocharged petrol engines – but just remember that while you’ll be able to carry two adults and two children, it might still be a struggle to get all of their luggage into the boot.

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Mazda 2 1.5 Skyactiv G Sport 5dr Auto Review

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52.3

280

litres

122

g/km

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