The 2 (as I will refer to it) is new to North America but has been selling in Japan, Europe and Australia since 2007. It's an award-winning vehicle and is bound to impress its driver. I find the exterior styling to be very cute and very functional. It has some strong lines and nice curves.
Under the hood is a 1.5L, 4-cylinder engine that creates 100 hp and 98 lb-ft of torque. Ok, I know that doesn't sound like a lot but, on the other hand, this vehicle doesn't weigh much; 1,043 kgs for the base GX model without air conditioning. It's also actually the lightest vehicle in its class but that doesn't mean it will be blown over when driving at highway speeds. It's composed of high tensile steel (very strong steel) and stays firmly planted on the ground when zipping around. I impressed with how solid it felt when driving quickly.
There are two transmissions offered with the 2; the standard 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Both get the job done but I'm a shifting kind of girl so the 5-speed manual tickled my fancy. In my opinion, the manual tranny makes driving way more fun and engaging because I can interact with the car a lot more.
Inside, there is a fair amount of people room. Individuals over six feet can fit rather comfortably behind the wheel or in the rear seats. Translation: your knees will not be in your face! Can't go wrong with that. The back seats are also very comfortable, yes, speaking from experience but not that kind! Even with the front seats pushed all the way back, there was a decent amount of legroom.
Here are my top 3 Highlights and Lowlights of the 3:
Highlights
1) Great styling: Yes, it' small but that doesn't mean it has to look bad. It has an amazing Spirited Green exterior colour that looks fab.
2) Handling and stability at highway speeds: The 2 has a nicely tuned suspension to give a little bit of edge while cornering. Its stability at highway speeds was great. It felt firm and did not let the wind push it around.
3) Mazda Skins: Personalizing this vehicle is very easy. Mazda gives the 2 owners an ability to apply 1 of 4 themes of decals on the side. The decals come in small, medium or large and can be outfitted with any of the 7 available exterior colours.
Lowlights:
1) The Dash: While the cabin is very user friendly, I think it needs a little more colour. The black just doesn't do it for me.
2 and 3) The trunk: With no fault of its own, only an emaciated version of myself would be able to fit in the back (that's why there is no trunk shot of me!!) For that, it gets 2 Lowlights. But as you can see I'm REALLY stretching it because I didn't find too much wrong with this vehicle.
If you want to read the full review of this car, visit the link below. Remember to tell all your friends to "Follow Me!" They will not be disappointed!!
http://autoshow.autotrader.ca/2010/06/26/2011-mazda2/
Cheers,
TCG
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