Overview of the Mazda Mazda2
In 2002 the Mazda 121 Metro hatch and 121 'bubble car' sedan were replaced by a tall-bodied model using Mazda's new nameplate formula. The Mazda 2, indicating a smaller car than the Mazda 3, has established itself as one of the more agile models in the city-car segment. It is also one of the most popular - while also being one of the most stylish after introducing a curvier-looking design from 2007 onwards. A hatch body style has been a constant in the model's lifecycle, with a sedan joining the range occasionally.
MAZDA 2 GENERATIONS (SINCE 2002)
2002-2007
2007-2014
2014 onwards
RUNNING COSTS
Fuel Consumption
1.5L 4-cylinder: 4.9 to 5.5 litres per 100km
= Highly economical.
= Good economy.
= Average fuel use.
= Heavy consumption.
Servicing
Every 10,000km or 12 months, whichever is sooner. Each service currently costs between about $289 and $317. Mazda 2 parts and accessoriescan be found on Gumtree.
SIMILAR MODELS TO MAZDA 2
Honda Jazz
Hyundai Accent
Suzuki Swift
Volkswagen Polo
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: MAZDA 2 (2007 TO 2014)
Make sure the paint on any Mazda 2 of this era is in good condition and hasn't started to flake or peel.
Some stone chips are quite normal, but flaking paint from, say, the plastic front bumper will need attention to preserve the car's appearance.
This is especially important in a car like the 2 whi ch appealed to younger drivers who, statistically, have more crashes. And those trendy, fizzy metallic colours that were so popular can be a real pain to match after a few years of exposure to Australian UV light levels.
Check that the service history is up to date, too, as, again, younger drivers don't always understand the importance of preventative maintenance.
If the engine speed varies at idle, the car may have a build-up of crud in its intake system. If so, a mechanic needs to disassemble this part of the engine and clean it.