Mazda 2 2018 Philippines: Price, Specs, Interior & Exterior Review

While four-door sedans seem to be the top pick for many drivers whose main purpose is getting around town, hatchbacks are sometimes appealing to certain car hunters due to a sharper and sportier look, albeit lack of sizeable boot. And a hatch we want to introduce today is the 2 from Mazda. This model is available in both sedan and hatchback body configurations, but Philkotse.com decides to choose the hatchback version as the “vedette” of this Mazda 2 Philippines review.

For 2018, the Mazda 2 may look the very same when it comes to design, yet it does feature several refinements. So what are those? Let’s find out. Of note, our review will largely focus on the Mazda 2 1.5 V+ AT.

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The Mazda 2 may look the very same when it comes to design, yet it does feature several refinements

Having undergone three years in local car market, the Mazda 2 exterior still looks fresh and cool with Mazda’s signature KODO: Soul of Motion design language manifested in angular headlamps and a massive front grille.

Additionally, smooth curves embrace the car corners, making for a glossy finish on this 5-door hot hatch.

The Mazda 2 still looks fresh and cool with Mazda’s signature KODO: Soul of Motion design language

Moving backwards, the sharp-looking taillights may be the most outstanding portion.

Above all, we love the way the Japanese marque makes its 2018 2 more aggressive while still upholding its iconic shape from the last model. All on the 2018 Mazda 2 exterior are as much as necessary, right straight from the shoulder.

Smooth curves embrace the car corners, making for a glossy finish on this 5-door hot hatch

We love the way the Japanese marque makes its 2018 2 more aggressive while still upholding its iconic shape from the last model

Flung the door open and all are recognizable on the 2018 Mazda 2 interior. That said, when compared to the predecessor, the current V+ model comes with a raft of standard amenities.

Point by point, the hatchback is now appointed with the company’s familiar MZD Connect infotainment system supporting AM/FM radio, CD, Aux, USB, Bluetooth connectivity and especially, navigation system.

Flung the door open and all are recognizable on the 2018 Mazda 2

Apart from the infotainment system update, the Mazda 2 interior is likewise fitted with automatic climate control which performs a little too well that you will feel that you’re suffering from cold nights even on the hottest of days.

Enveloping the Mazda 2 are heaps of gloss back trim and black fabric. Besides, it comes as no surprise when hard plastic is also scattered inside given that this is the smallest offering from Mazda.

Also worth mentioning in the Mazda 2 2018 is its driving position. The car is said to own one of the most natural driving positions in its class. What’s more, it’s loaded with a telescopic steering rack and a fully-adjustable driver’s seat to boot.

While we cannot complaint about goodies and amenities inside the 2, its space seems not to be enough, particularly in the rear. If you’re over 5”8, be careful or you may hit the top of the ceiling when trying to park yourself at the rear seats. Not only that, legroom is insufficient for rear occupants too.

Alongside giving limited space for the rear passengers, the updated Mazda 2 also comes with finite luggage space in comparison to other hatchbacks like the Toyota Yaris and Honda Jazz.

The 2 is not too hot, but it’s regarded as one of the most fun-to-drive hatchbacks in local automotive scene. Propelling the Mazda 2 1.5 V+ is a 1.5L SkyActiv G inline-4 with 108 PS and 139 Nm of torque working in conjunction with a 6-speed automatic gearbox dubbed SkyActiv-Drive.

When on the move, it feels more lightweight and nimble without a trunk at the back. Addition to that, its far-flung set of wheels and a short wheelbase make it overcome corners swiftly and effortlessly.

Propelling the Mazda 2 1.5 V+ is a 1.5L SkyActiv G inline-4 engine

Another striking feature is the absolute electronic power steering. Despite the fact that it is as numb as that of other models, it lets the vehicle follow through with no delay.

Further enhancing the Mazda 2 performance is Mazda’s noted G-Vectoring Control for better handling, stability as well as steering corrections reduction. For such type of vehicle, this features is a tribute, notably when traversing mountain terrains or in the track. Plus, the potent inline-4 engine is laudable too. It provides remarkable power and torques when compared to new hatchbacks in the market today. Hooked up to a 6-speed AT, the 2 is quite quick on its feet. Specially, once shifting to the Sport mode, the car is more fun to drive than when in normal driving mode.

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When on the move, it feels more lightweight and nimble without a trunk at the back

Speaking of fuel consumption, the Mazda 2 sips fuel at around 9.0 - 9.5 km/l in light traffic. That will improve significantly in the highway to 16.0 – 16.5 km/l.

With reference to ride quality, the hatch is a bit disappointing. To be frank, it’s not comfy on long trips.

This 5-door hatchback, with a modern design, functional cabin, peppy powertrain, and sharp handling, is persuasive enough to make you bring it home?

For 2018, the Mazda 2 cost (1.5 V+ model) is P918,000 which is P53,000 more expensive than 2017’s price. This price, honestly, is fairly stiff for a hatch, yet considering all it has to offer and you’ll find it’s a great choice, especially for Pinoys who’re seeking for a “performance” hatchback.

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