By: IOL Motoring Staff
The all-new Mazda2 is here and it wants to shake up the local compact hatch establishment with its cheeky looks, modern technology and good value price tag.
Like its larger new-generation siblings, the new hatch inherits Mazda's Kodo design language and SkyActiv technologies and buyers will have a choice between two 1.5-litre engines in the form of a petrol and a diesel.
The normally aspirated petrol option delivers 82kW and 145Nm and can be mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox. The turbodiesel is only available with the latter autobox option and this one is good for 77kW and 250Nm.
The petrol models seem rather well priced, starting at R188 000, but the sole diesel option is on the steep side of things at R259 900, even though it's well appointed.
Unlike a certain German rival, the Mazda2 base model, the 1.5 Active, doesn't ask you to live without any bare essentials and comes with air conditioning, electric windows, height adjustable driver's seat, push-button engine start and a four-speaker MP3/CD/USB/Aux audio system linked to steering wheel controls. Safety comes in the form of dual front airbags.
For not a lot more, the 1.5 Dynamic will liven up your life with 15-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, electric folding mirrors, leather-wrapped steering wheel and a full-colour touch-screen MZD Connect infotainment system with internet radio integration.
The 1.5 Individual upgrades you to 16-inch alloys, chrome exhaust, auto headlights and a few extra interior garnishes, while the 1.5 DE Hazumi range-topper gives you diesel power and other goodies like half-leather trim, navigation, automatic climate control and DSC stability control.
All models come with a three-year unlimited kilometre warranty and three-year service plan.
PRICES
1.5 Active - R188 500
1.5 Dynamic - R199 900
1.5 Dynamic AT - R211 300
1.5 Individual - R211 400
1.5 Individual AT - R222 800
1.5 DE Hazumi AT - R259 900
But is the Mazda2 all that it's cracked up to be? Grab a copy of The Star, Mercury or Cape Times next Thursday to see Denis Droppa's driving impressions.