There’s nothing like the feeling of a simple yet well put together vehicle. Mazda do the looks, they do the quality, and they have a good grip on what a car should feel like on the road. The Mazda 2 is almost the perfect entry-level vehicle – and that’s coming from someone who purchased one just over three years ago.
Mazda 2 Maxx
Make: Mazda
Model: 2
Variant: Maxx
Engine: 1.5 litre in-line 4 cylinder 16 valve DOHC S-VT
Transmission: 4-speed Auto
Vital Stats: 76 kW Power @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 135 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Mazda Claimed Fuel Economy: 6.8
EFTM Claimed Fuel Economy: 7.1 in the City, 6.5 on the highway so pretty spot on
MRRP Price: $22,000 (Drive away – Sydney suburban price)
Mazda 2 Maxx – complete with rear “spoiler”
Wow Factor: Over and above the base-model Mazda 2 Neo – You’re getting a chrome tipped exhaust and fog lights, a little spoiler at the top of the rear hatch, Climate control and outside air temp display, A leather wrapped steering wheel, Trip computer showing your fuel usage stats – for the extra couple of grand it’s probably well worth it.
Most Impressive: There is no doubting Mazda’s ability to put together a well sorted, well presented vehicle. The 2 drives well around town and at no point feels cheap. It’s great value. I own a Mazda 2 and the feel of the car on the road doesn’t diminish even after the 40,000km’s I’ve done.
Not So Impressive : Bluetooth? Hello? It’s 2014 and this thing doesn’t have Bluetooth – one can only assume that all changes with an all new Mazda 2 due out soon – regardless, it’s a big oversight when compared like for like with its competitors.
