One can note that the Mazda 2 has outlived quiet several hatchbacks in the South African market, let alone the B-segment in the category – and there is a reason for that if the refreshed Mazda 2 has anything to say about it. The latest iteration of the 2023 Mazda 2 has seen the model return straight to “the streets” with a few interior and exterior changes.
First, let’s start with the exterior. The Mazda 2 received a few “nips & tucks that have been applied more on the aesthetics of the car than any mechanical enhancements – so no big turbos here. We liked how the Mazda 2 received black & red trim enhancements on their signature grill(ok, maybe the red side-badge does not qualify as a full trim enhancement) but it make the ‘Individual’ trim stand out from a typical Mazda 2. The wheels have been fitted with 16-inch rims for a sportier look, coupled with the carbon-like wrap on the roof – which caught us off-guard somewhat.
The front-grill has a bit of a back story to it as the Active model ships standard with what appears to be a flat black grille, might possibly be mistaken to an EV variant. The ‘Individual’, which has become the flagship in the line-up, comes stock with the honeycomb grille and the red detailing badge that compliments it fully.
The interior is where things get a bit interesting as the dashboard and door panels host what feels like a black leather-and-cloth like material that extends right through the car, including the seats, and has contrasting red stitching to compliment the look. The features list also includes a 7-inch infotainment with a 6-speaker infotainment system that has Android Auto & Apple Carplay. Unfortunately, Mazda has not updated the system, so functionality is still through the swivel knob that is comfortable positioned next to the gear lever. The Individual also comes equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, has cruise-control, stability control, an electro-chromatic rear-view mirror, folding mirrors and additional side & curtain airbags, smart keyless entry & exit, a head-up display.
Under the hood, the car still has the same 1.5L 4-cylinder petrol engine that is available in both manual and automatic. The engine produces 85kW @ 148Nm on the front.
Models on offer:
- Mazda 2 1.5L Active 6-speed Manual 5-Dr: R307 100
- Mazda 2 1.5L Dynamic 6-speed Manual 5-Dr: R335 500
- Mazda 2 1.5L Dynamic 6-speed Automatic 5-Dr: R354 700
- Mazda 2 1.5L Individual 6-speed Automatic 5-Dr: R398 700
Prices include a 3-year unlimited Mazda Care Service plan.
