The 2013 Mazda 2 is closely related to the impressive Ford Fiesta, a legacy of a Mazda-Ford platform-sharing partnership. And that's a good thing. Like the Fiesta, the Mazda 2 features a short wheelbase, a basic but responsive suspension design and quick steering. Thanks to its diminutive size and weight, the Mazda 2 doesn't need a lot of engine power to make it fun to drive.
But the cute hatchback carries some sacrifices as well. It's not particularly spacious; a Honda Fit can carry twice as much gear thanks to better interior packaging. The Mazda 2's rear seats are cramped and not an ideal space for adults on longer drives, and its fuel economy falls midpack. And the Mazda 2 offers limited convenience and tech features that are quickly becoming standard on rival models.
The Mazda 2 charms with its eager driving feel and no-frills personality, but overall we think there are better choices for a subcompact. The 2013 Fiesta is the most direct competitor,and offering a similar fun-to-drive experience with a nicer interior etc. The 2013 Chevrolet Sonic offers more room, an equally engaging drive and an available turbocharged model, while the 2013 Hyundai Accent and Kia Rio can't be beat for total value.
Vehicle Overview :
The subcompact five-seat Mazda2 arrived stateside in 2011 as Mazda's newest entry-level offering. It's only available as a hatchback and is slotted below the Mazda3. The Honda Fit is a major Mazda2 competitor, as are a host of other small cars, from the Ford Fiesta and Chevy Sonic to the Toyota Yaris. The Mazda2 comes in Sport and Touring trim levels.
What New for 2013 ?
The Mazda2 now includes a USB port, but there are no other significant changes for 2013.
Exterior :
Thanks to an arcing black garnish atop the air dam, the Mazda2 carries the smiling expression Mazda has affixed to most of its cars. The lower air dam dominates the Mazda2's nose; a thin grille with Mazda's logo sits above it. Around 155 inches long, the Mazda2 is a bit longer than the tiny Yaris hatchback, but it's significantly shorter than most other competitors.
Best Exterior features include:
- Standard body-colored door handles and side mirrors
- Available fog lamps
- Available 15-inch alloys
- Available rear spoiler
- Available chrome exhaust tip
Interior :
The cabin seats five, with textured fabric upholstery in Sport models and upgraded fabric with red piping in the Touring. The stereo display sits within a circular cutout. The rear seats fold down in a 60/40 split, allowing 27.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume.
Best Interior features include:
- Standard power windows and locks
- Standard air conditioning
- Standard CD stereo with an MP3 jack and USB port
- Standard keyless entry
- Available leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls
- Available trip computer
Under the Hood :
The Mazda2's 1.5-liter four-cylinder makes 100 hp and 98 pounds-feet of torque. Transmission choices include a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.
Best Mechanical features include:
- Engine uses regular gas
- Front disc and rear drum brakes
Safety :
Standard safety features include:
- Side-impact airbags
- Side curtain airbags
- Antilock brakes
- Electronic stability system and traction control
Color :
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