2026 Mazda 2 review

TheMazda 2is at a crossroads.

The adorable "Tiny Tot" isn’t charming shoppers in 2025, and it seems the entire light car segment is losing its luster.

Mazda, seemingly fortune tellers in the automotive world, foreshadowed dwindling demand by strategically trimming their local lineup from four models to a streamlined duo at the start of the year.

Eleven years in, the Mazda 2’s future hangs in the balance. Will this generation be its last dance? The rumor mill is silent on a potential fourth act, leaving fans wondering if the curtain is about to fall on this beloved nameplate.

Time to snag that nimble city runabout you’ve been eyeing! Mazda’s got a compact charmer waiting, and your local dealer’s showroom might just be where your urban driving dreams begin.

Ouch! The Mazda 2 just took a hit to the wallet. The once-affordable Pure and Pure SP trims have vanished, sending the entry price soaring to a sobering $26,990 (before on-roads). That’s a hefty $4120 leap from last year, leaving budget-conscious buyers feeling the pinch.

Contenders like the Suzuki Swift Hybrid and MG 3 have leapfrogged ahead – fresher designs, leaner price tags. Even the Kia Picanto, diminutive as it is, remains a steal, undercutting the competition.

Is the Mazda 2 facing its twilight, or can it still shine in 2025’s automotive landscape? We wrestled with the entry-level G15 Evolve Hatch to uncover the truth.

How much does the Mazda 2 cost?

The Evolve now demands $26,990 to get behind the wheel, a steeper climb of $4,120 from its Pure predecessor – consider it the price of progress.

| Model | Price before on-road costs | Drive-away price | | — | — | — | |2025 Mazda 2 G15 Evolve Hatch|$26,990|$29,990| | 2025 Mazda 2 G15 GT Hatch | $28,190 | N/A | | 2025 Mazda 2 G15 GT Sedan | $28,190 | N/A |

The Mazda 2’s price tag just got a boost across the board, pinching wallets from the GT’s $120 bump to the Evolve’s hefty $620 hike. Suddenly, even the Evolve trim finds itself in an awkward staring contest with the MG3 and Suzuki Swift Hybrid, both vying for the "best value" crown, and winning.

To see how the Mazda 2 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

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What is the Mazda 2 like on the inside?

Mazda demoted the Evolve to entry-level status, but even at its base, it’s a lukewarm offering in a sizzling market.

For this price, you expect basic cloth seats and plastic, but the tech in the 2-Series feels like it’s stuck in the past.

The 7-inch infotainment screen? Patience, young Padawan, because you’ll need it. Booting up feels like waiting for dial-up, and its processing power struggles to keep pace with our app-happy generation (trust me, I’m one of you). And forget severing the cord: smartphone mirroring demands a wired USB-A connection – relics lurking beneath the center stack. Wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto? Sadly, that’s not even an option. Prepare for tech disappointment.

Ditch the built-in system it’s mostly a digital radio and map show. Smartphone mirroring is your golden ticket. Want touchscreen control? Phone’s gotta be plugged in, unless you’re parked.

Beyond the favored driver’s seat, passengers wrestle with an infotainment system governed by a diminutive rotary dial and a scattering of shortcut buttons. While some might celebrate the tactile feel, I found this control cluster to be a frustratingly clumsy dance in everyday use.

Forget flashy gimmicks. The Mazda 2 throws a charming curveball with its instrument panel. While the world obsesses over sprawling digital dashboards, you’re greeted by a classic, driver-focused layout: a central tachometer, the heart of the driving experience, flanked by customizable displays offering just the data you need. It’s a refreshingly honest approach in a world of digital overload. Think timeless wristwatch, not soulless smartwatch.

Above you’ll find a small glass head-up display that modernises the cabin to some degree.

But all told, newer models like the Swift and MG3 have far more to offer on the technology front.

However, neither quite achieves the Mazda 2’s ergonomic embrace. It’s a cockpit sculpted for almost any driver, thanks to generous seat and steering wheel adjustments. Surprisingly, the cloth seats also hug you back, offering a level of lateral support that belies their unassuming appearance.

The cockpit is intuitively laid out, placing every essential control within easy grasp. However, a nagging absence persists: a center armrest. On extended drives, the lack of a comfortable elbow perch becomes a surprisingly noticeable omission.

The interior whispers quality, not shouts it. Panels fit snugly, a testament to careful assembly, and the materials, while not lavish, are perfectly suited for the price point. Where it matters most – touchpoints like armrests and door inserts – you’ll find forgiving cloth or supple leatherette. Red and silver accents provide a visual spark, a subtle counterpoint to the otherwise understated design. Then your eyes land on the dashboard. It’s fashioned from what can only be described as "solar panel plastic," a stark reminder that some corners, regrettably, had to be cut.

Practicality-wise, the interior offers the essentials. A generous glovebox handles bulky items, while slender door bins accommodate water bottles and slim belongings. Central cupholders are present, and a handy tray beneath the climate controls is perfectly sized for your phone. For a vehicle of this footprint, the storage solutions are well-considered and adequate.

The Mazda 2’s rear seats? Let’s just say stretching out back there requires a certain level of yogic flexibility, even for the light car class. Don’t expect limo-like legroom.

The bench seat? Let’s just say your knees will be intimately acquainted with the seat in front. And if you’re blessed with height, prepare to slouch. This space is strictly kid-sized; adults need not apply.

Even the most patient child morphs into a pint-sized powder keg on a long haul, especially when comfort stops are rarer than hen’s teeth. And when I say rare, imagine a car stripped bare: no cupholders for sugary salvation, no refreshing air vents, zero USB ports to resurrect dying devices, and not even a door bin or measly armrest to be found.

Think of the back seats as a bonus storage unit. Need more room? Fold those rear seats down and watch your tiny 250-litre boot expand! (Let’s be honest, it’s pint-sized even compared to rivals). But hey, if it’s boot space you crave, the Mazda 2 sedan boasts a cavernous 440L – problem solved!

Loading cargo? Prepare for a slight hurdle. An awkward initial lip and a surprising step from the boot floor to the folded seats make it a mini-obstacle course for your belongings.

| Dimensions | Mazda 2 hatch | Mazda 2 sedan | | — | — | — | |Length| 4085mm | 4360mm | |Width| 1695mm | 1695mm | |Height| 1495mm | 1470mm | |Wheelbase| 2570mm | 2570mm | |Cargo capacity (VDA)| 250L | 440L |

To see how the Mazda 2 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

What’s under the bonnet?

All Mazda 2 models are powered by a ‘G15’ 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine in Australia.

| Specifications | Mazda 2 | | — | — | |Engine| 1.5L 4cyl | |Power| 81kW | |Torque| 142Nm | |Transmission| 6-speed automatic | |Drive type| Front-wheel drive | |Weight| 1109kg | |Fuel economy(claimed)| 5.0L/100km | |Fuel economy (as tested)| 5.9L/100km | |Fuel tank capacity| 44L | |Fuel requirement| 91-octane unleaded | |CO2 emissions| 117g/km | |Emissions standard| Euro 5 |

To see how the Mazda 2 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

How does the Mazda 2 drive?

Mazda 2’s flaws fade into the rearview mirror the moment you hit the open road. This scrappy little hatch transforms from a list of compromises into a pure, unadulterated joyride – a reminder that driving can still be delightfully, surprisingly, fun.

2024 Mazda 2 Evolve shown

The 2 hits the sweet spot for city drivers. It’s nimble, lightweight, and refreshingly simple to drive – a fuss-free experience perfect for navigating urban chaos.

Ten years haven’t dulled the Mazda 2’s spirit. It still leaps from a standstill and zips through city streets with an eagerness unburdened by excess weight, proving agility never goes out of style.

The engine unfurls its power in a silken, predictable manner, a welcome departure from peaky turbos or electric surges. The six-speed automatic, a seasoned veteran, executes low-speed maneuvers with grace, sidestepping the dual-clutch stumble and the CVT’s monotonous hum. While competent, the powertrain’s voice lacks the hushed refinement of its hybrid and turbocharged adversaries.

Fuel efficiency, however, isn’t the Mazda 2’s strongest suit. During our week-long test, a mix of city sprints and open road cruising, it averaged 5.9L/100km. While respectable, that figure pales in comparison to the sipping habits of the Toyota Yaris and Suzuki Swift Hybrid, both masters of fuel conservation. The Mazda 2 does manage to outshine its non-hybrid rival, the MG3, proving that some progress is still being made in the efficiency game.

Yes, your wallet might weep at the pump, but trust me, your face won’t. The Mazda 2 doesn’t just zip; it dances. Straight lines are fun, sure, but throw in a curve, and this little marvel truly comes alive.

The steering is a delightful dance in your hands – light, precise, and eager. The 2 nimbly pivots, begging for the next curve. Grip is abundant, a trustworthy companion that empowers you to push harder, explore further, and relish every exhilarating turn.

The ride walks a tightrope. It’s firm, a subtle nod to the car’s sporty intentions, yet miraculously avoids jarring jolts over road imperfections. Years of Mazda’s meticulous engineering have sculpted the perfect balance: nimble athleticism without sacrificing everyday comfort in their entry-level model.

Slipping into tight city spots is child’s play with the Mazda 2. Even the entry-level Evolve model comes equipped with a reversing camera and parking sensors, making parking a cinch though the camera’s resolution might remind you of a vintage video game.

On the open road, the 2 doesn’t flinch. Push it to highway speeds, and the engine purrs contentedly. Road noise? Barely a whisper more than its rivals.

Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC) now graces both models, a perk from this year’s streamlined lineup. While a welcome addition, the MRCC’s assistance fades below 25km/h. Consider it a highway helper, not a traffic jam savior – stop-and-go situations still demand your full attention.

Mazda’s tech, while a step up, still lags behind the Yaris, Swift, and MG3 in terms of modern sophistication.

Safety isn’t skimped on in the Mazda 2 either. It diligently keeps you between the lines with lane-keep assist, while forward collision warnings act as your vigilant co-pilot. The 2025 models take safety up a notch with Smart Brake Support (SBS), essentially a smarter, faster autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system ready to react before you do.

To see how the Mazda 2 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

What do you get?

The Pure trim level was axed late last year, leaving just two model grades for 2025.

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2025 Mazda 2 G15 Evolve equipment highlights:

• 16-inch black alloy wheels
• Power-folding exterior mirrors
• LED headlights
• LED daytime running lights
• Automatic headlights
• Rain-sensing wipers
• 7.0-inch infotainment screen
• Satellite navigation
• Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• DAB+ digital radio
• Colour head-up display
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Leather-wrapped shifter and handbrake
• Tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment
• 6-speaker sound system
• Keyless start
• Power windows
• 1 x 12V outlet
• 2 x USB outlet
• Black mesh-style grille
• Climate control air-conditioning
• Auto-dimming rear-view mirror

G15 GT adds:

• Keyless entry
• Black leather/Grand Luxe suede upholstery with red highlights

To see how the Mazda 2 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

Is the Mazda 2 safe?

The Mazda 2’s safety score just vanished. Once proudly boasting a five-star ANCAP rating from 2015, that shield has now expired, leaving buyers in the dark. Think a decade-old safety badge still holds up? ANCAP’s ever-evolving standards mean yesterday’s star is unlikely to shine as bright today.

All models come standard with the following safety equipment:

• Autonomous emergency braking (forward, reverse)
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Lane-keep assist
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Rear parking sensors
• Reversing camera
• Adaptive cruise control
• Traffic sign recognition

The G15 GT gains a surround-view camera and front parking sensors.

The 2025 Mazda 2 just got smarter. Beyond a nip and tuck to its trim levels, Mazda’s packed in extra peace of mind: Radar Cruise Control now comes standard, and the emergency brakes got a serious upgrade with a smarter, more responsive Smart Brake Support system. Think of it as having a co-pilot constantly watching the road.

To see how the Mazda 2 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

How much does the Mazda 2 cost to run?

The Mazda 2 is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty.

| Servicing and Warranty | Mazda 2 | | — | — | |Warranty| 5 years, unlimited kilometres | |Roadside assistance| 5 years | |Service intervals| 12 months or 15,000km | |Capped-price servicing| 5 years | |Average annual service cost| $446.20 | |Total capped-price service cost| $2231 |

That’s just average by industry standards, and Mazda 2 buyers can expect to fork out more than most for servicing.

Ouch! Five years of capped-price servicing on this car hits your wallet for $2231 – almost DOUBLE what you’d shell out to keep a Toyota Yaris purring for the same time. And it’s not alone in the ‘ouch’ department. The Kia Picanto, MG 3 Hybrid+, and Suzuki Swift Hybrid all laugh in the face of those costs, offering cheaper maintenance and a generous SEVEN years of capped-price servicing.

To see how the Mazda 2 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

childcareman.xyz’s Take on the Mazda 2

Like its SUV sibling – the Mazda CX-3 – the Mazda 2 is falling down the compact car pecking order as new arrivals promise more for less or similar money.

Forget bargain-basement Mazda 2. For the same cash, you could be cruising in a fully loaded Suzuki Swift Hybrid GLX! Think guilt-free city slicking, plus perks like toasty buns (heated seats!) and the magic of wireless phone charging. Ditch basic; embrace brilliant.

Ditch the hefty price tag without sacrificing a single thrill. The Kia Picanto GT-Line delivers all the fun and features you crave, letting you pocket over $5,000 in savings.

Forget the MG 3, especially the hybrid. Safety questions make it a gamble you don’t want to take. And speaking of value, the Toyota Yaris makes even the Mazda 2 look like a steal. Let that sink in.

The Mazda 2 might not be the king of the hill anymore, but don’t count it out just yet. While it might not be the newest or flashiest subcompact, it still offers a surprisingly enjoyable driving experience. Think nimble handling, a comfortable ride, and a refreshingly straightforward interior. For drivers who value familiarity and function over fleeting trends, the Mazda 2 remains a compelling choice.

But if you’re willing to embrace change, there’s better value to be found elsewhere.

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