Mazda 2 Hatchback

Inside, the Mazda 2 Hatchback features a black and suede leather upholstery with red accents, exuding a premium sporty vibe. Although its seats are just manually-adjustable, these are well-padded enough to keep you and your passengers comfortable throughout your journey. Drivers of the hatchback have access to an active driving display as well as a meter set that consists of a digital speedometer and an analog tachometer. The car also comes with a premium-looking leather-wrapped steering wheel with multiple controls and a leather-wrapped shift knob. 

For entertainment and information accessibility, it comes with a 7-inch LCD display with Mazda Connect and offers wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth Hands-Free, as well as dual USB-A ports. The infotainment system is linked to a 6-speaker sound system. 

One downside of this car, however, is its cramped rear space, which cannot effectively accommodate three adult passengers. Its rear space also limits the driver’s road visibility. 

There is only one noticeable change with the latest Mazda 2 Hatchback’s current exterior design, which is its new mustache-looking black bumper. Other than that, it still looks predominantly the same as its predecessor, the 2022 model. At the front, it still sports a gloss black grille with a honeycomb pattern as well as LED headlamps and running lamps. On the sides, it also has standard gloss black power-adjustable and foldable side mirrors. It runs on a set of 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels that feature a new diamond-cut design. 

Meanwhile, at the back, it still has the same design that showcases a balance of sportiness and elegance. The Mazda 2 Hatchback measures 4,090 mm in length, 1,695 mm in width, and 1,515 mm in height. It also has a wheelbase of 2,570 mm.

The Mazda 2 Hatchback utilizes a suspension combination of a MacPherson Strut at the front and a Torsion Beam Axle at the rear. This suspension system allows this hatchback to have responsive steering and agile handling. Consequently, you will be able to turn and hit corners with ease while driving this vehicle. However, its absorption of road bumps could still be improved moving forward. Overall, this car is really enjoyable and comfortable to drive, most especially in the city.

The Mazda 2 Hatchback is powered by a 1.5L SKYACTIV-G engine, which produces a maximum power output of 110 PS and a maximum torque of 141 Nm. It runs on a SKYACTIV-DRIVE 6-speed automatic transmission with a sport mode. For a hatchback, this car can offer an exhilarating driving experience courtesy of its well-tuned engine. It has responsive shifting and throttle response, enabling it to run smoothly on city roads and highways. It is also a feasible daily vehicle in the city since it has a relatively good fuel economy. Its NVH management has also been improved compared to its predecessor’s. That said, this shows that the Mazda 2 Hatchback is as reliable as other enthusiasts claim.

The significant upgrade of the latest Mazda 2 Hatchback model is its equipment of the brand’s I-ACTIVSENSE. This ADAS includes front and rear smart city brake support, forward obstruction warning, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and a rear cross traffic alert. It also comes with standard and modern safety and security features including 6 airbags, reverse camera, and a smart keyless entry system. 

In terms of braking, the Mazda 2 Hatchback uses ventilated discs at the front, while solid discs at the rear. Its braking setup is protected by an anti-lock braking system and dynamic stability control.

In our opinion, the latest Mazda 2 Hatchback may find it challenging to gain traction in today’s market considering its minimal upgrades and changes. Other locally-available hatchbacks, like the Honda City Hatchback and the BYD Dolphin, are continuously evolving. Hence, the demand for a Mazda 2 Hatchback will gradually stagnate if no significant innovations or upgrades are made moving forward. But, reliability practicality-wise, this hatchback still has the ability to compete within its segment.