The Mazda 2 Hybrid is the model from the Hiroshima-based manufacturer that is based on the Toyota Yaris, and in fact, the two models have a lot in common, from the platform to the factory where they are produced. However, as always, Mazda focuses on the details to differentiate its city car from Toyota’s “twin” and reinforces its long-standing commitment to quality and comfort.
A model of great importance for the Japanese manufacturer, the Mazda2 has the merit of being one of the entry-level proposals in Mazda’s multi-solution strategy, integrating into the range of electrified models. Acknowledging this, the Hiroshima-based company has refined the city car, which now presents a look more in line with the brand’s other models, thanks to the update it received this year, allowing it to slightly diverge from the image of the model it is based on.
The most significant changes appear at the front section, with the adoption of new headlights and a new grille, as well as a redesigned bumper, giving the small model a sportier appearance.
At the rear section, there is a notable horizontal connection between the two light clusters with LED lights, along with a tailgate that is entirely in the body color.
In the cabin of the unit we had the opportunity to drive, equipped with the Centre-Line trim level, there is a new 9” touchscreen central control display, featuring an enhanced audio system with six speakers, Bluetooth, DAB, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a USB-C port, and adaptive cruise control.
Additionally, the Mazda2 Hybrid now includes numerous safety features, such as a rearview camera, traffic sign recognition, automatic emergency braking, and steering assistance, along with front and rear electric windows, vanity mirrors for the driver and passenger, a rear spoiler, as well as rain-sensing wipers, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear lever, materials that are in line with the segment average.
In terms of space, the driver and front passenger enjoy a spacious and comfortable environment with fabric-upholstered seats; however, access to the rear seat is somewhat restricted by the shape of the body, and the space allocated for passengers does not allow much room for larger users. Nevertheless, we are dealing with a utility model, and in this case, the Mazda2 fulfills its mission, offering a trunk with a capacity of up to 286 liters, which is sufficient for urban life.
More Enjoyable Driving
Equipped with a 1.5-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine producing 92 hp, combined with an 80 hp electric motor, the Mazda2 Hybrid delivers a total output of 116 hp, which is more than sufficient for urban use, or even beyond that.
The “simple” hybrid technology does not require a plug-in, as it utilizes the gasoline engine and regenerative braking to charge the battery, which is small but allows us to drive in electric mode during stop-and-go city traffic.
Sitting behind the wheel, we easily find the correct driving position and soon realize that the Mazda2 Hybrid is a model that is easy to drive and quite pleasant in an urban environment, responding quickly whenever we feel the need to accelerate a bit more, utilizing the combustion engine that ensures the dynamism of this city car.
The switch between the combustion engine and the electric motor happens smoothly, thanks in part to the e-CVT automatic transmission, which doesn’t always receive unanimous praise, but continues to be competent and proves to be a good ally.
Comfortable, quick, agile, and fun to drive, whether on major highways or the narrow streets of some cities, the Mazda2 Hybrid benefits from easy maneuverability, with a hybrid powertrain that allows for a smooth driving experience and enables acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.7 seconds, with a top speed of 175 km/h.
In terms of fuel consumption, the Mazda2 Hybrid records a range between 3.8 and 4.3 l/100 km, values that we were unable to achieve, although with the 4.4 liters recorded, we weren’t too far off.
It should be emphasized that the Mazda2 Hybrid, like the entire Mazda range currently sold in Portugal, is covered by the Mazda Warranty offer of 6 years (or 150,000 kilometers, whichever comes first), which covers all defects (material and manufacturing) and costs of repair or replacement of affected components (except for wear parts).
It is noteworthy that the price of the Mazda2 Hybrid version starts at €26,127, although the tested version, Centre-Line, which is more equipped as standard, has a starting price of €27,327.
However, the Japanese brand recently announced a campaign running until the end of the year that makes the Mazda2 Hybrid even more accessible, with prices starting at €22,426.
Technical Specifications
Combustion engine – Front transverse 3 cylinders, 1490 cc gasoline
Power – 92 hp
Torque – 120 Nm
Electric motor
Power – 80 hp
Torque – 141 Nm
Combined maximum power – 116 hp
Transmission – Automatic e-CVT
Traction – Front
0-100 km/h – 9.7 seconds
Top speed – 175 km/h
Battery – Lithium-ion 0.76 kWh
Average consumption – 3.8 to 4.2 l/100 km
CO2 emissions – 87-90 g/km
Length – 3.94 m
Width – 1.74 m
Height – 1.50 m
Weight – 1180 kg
Trunk capacity – 286 liters
Price – Starting from €26,127 (Prime-Line)
Price of the tested version – €27,327 (Centre-Line)
