Overview & Reviews

As one of the newer subcompact models to enter the market, the Mazda 2 four-door hatchback is an effort to capitalize on two intersecting developments. First is the increasing importance of fuel economy to both automakers and car buyers. The second is a new sense of frugality in America, which expresses the idea that it's foolish to drive around in far more car than you actually need.

The Mazda 2 addresses both of these realities head-on and throws in a bit of sportiness for good measure. But the subcompact segment has become very competitive lately, with rivals offering more passenger and cargo space along with the availability of more luxury features and performance. If you're looking for an inexpensive set of wheels that'll get you where you need to go without being a complete snooze to drive, the Mazda 2 is worth a look. But overall, a competing model from Chevrolet, Honda or Kia will likely be a better choice.

Current Mazda 2
The Mazda 2 is a subcompact four-door hatchback powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 100 horsepower and 98 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, while a four-speed automatic is an option.

The Mazda 2 is offered in two trims. The entry-level Sport comes with keyless entry, air-conditioning, full power accessories and a four-speaker CD/MP3 stereo with USB and auxiliary audio jacks. Stepping up to the Touring gets you more goodies such as alloy wheels, foglights, a leather-wrapped wheel, cruise control and a six-speaker stereo.

From a design perspective, the Mazda 2's cabin is modern but simple, with no elements to fawn over or bemoan. Hard plastics are plentiful, but that is to be expected. The front seats are relatively comfortable and offer enough room for taller adults, though the lack of a telescoping steering wheel is a notable omission. Also disappointing are the rear seats, which are unsupportive and cramped. With those rear seats in place, cargo capacity is 13.3 cubic feet, which is small for a hatchback. With the 60/40-split seats folded (they don't fold completely flat), that figure goes up to a still small 27.8 cubes.

In Edmunds testing, we found the Mazda 2's 100-hp four-cylinder engine left the car feeling underpowered, especially when paired with the four-speed automatic transmission. Moreover, the small engine only offers average fuel economy numbers for the class. However, with the five-speed manual gearbox, the car's precise steering and its well-tuned suspension deliver both nimble handling and decent ride quality, which makes up somewhat for the engine's shortcomings.

Used Mazda 2 Models
The Mazda 2 debuted for 2011. It hasn't changed mechanically since its introduction, but optional equipment has been updated a bit. Prior to 2014, Bluetooth and navigation were not available, even on the higher trim levels. The 2011 and '12 cars also lacked a USB input for the sound system (they only had an auxiliary input).

User Reviews:

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  Very Fun to Drive but Needs More Power and Comfort - 2011 Mazda Mazda2
  By weskania - December 31 - 9:24 pm

  The Mazda2 is a lot of fun to drive, it handles well and gets excellent gas mileage. I regularly get over the stated 35 MPG highway, getting around 37 MPG average. Hills can be a bit of a problem, as this car doesnt have a very big engine. I can make it through the mountains fine, but its necessary to downshift considerably to speed up on hills. The car is comfortable for short trips, but for long trips, can get uncomfortable. There is no lumbar support or center armrest, which can be uncomfortable for longer rides. However, for a small car, it feels big inside and has excellent visibility.

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  Awesome little car! - 2011 Mazda Mazda2
  By bigkampe - October 7 - 9:30 pm

  I recently purchased this car and enjoy its quick and responsive handling. For a 100 hp, this little car can move. I could not disagree with edmunds assessment of this car more. I drove the Fiesta and was a little disappointed. Plus, while the Fit is a nice car with more storage, the drive is not a pleasant and its styling is less attractive to me.

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  The Mazda2 is for the car enthusiast of the "B" segment. - 2013 Mazda Mazda2
  By marvinloldham - April 10 - 2:04 am

  I have two types of cars: The sports car I love and the work car I need. It was time for me to replace my need car. so I wanted, cheep, easy to maintain, great mpg, and it had to be A STICK! I looked at the Mazda2, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai accent, Chevy Sonic, and the Honda fit. Let make it REAL easy for you since I drove them all. If you need cargo hauling-- go with the Honda fit. If you want to be under the radar and the best warranty-- go with the Hyundai Accent. If you need bells and whistles- Go with the Ford Fiesta. If you need a compromise of the previous three --- Go with the Chevy Sonic. But if you like a car that acts & feels like a sports car--- Mazda2 hands down!

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  Drove one in Australia - 2011 Mazda Mazda2
  By segesta - May 8 - 11:53 pm

  In May 2010 I visited family in Sydney and drove the Mazda 2. Right hand drive aside, it was a fun car, roomy, even fit my big international-traveler suitcase in the back. Seemed well built, the doors thunked nicely. Theyve had no reliability problems with it.

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  Just what I needed - 2011 Mazda Mazda2
  By mamom1 - October 11 - 6:55 pm

  Just bought the 2011 Mazda2 to replace my slowly dying 1999 Nissan Maxima. It is awesome. The savings on gas is unbelievable. I drive mainly around town (work commute is under 4 miles on surface streets) and it handles beautifully. Contrary to the "pro" reviews, I dont find the engine noise loud and the acceleration is fine. This car has everything I had in my Maxima with the exception of cruise control (I wasnt interested in paying extra $ for fog lights, cruise control, and red seat piping on the Touring edition). Oh, and did I mention, my 16 year old thinks it is awesome!

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  Absolute blast - 2012 Mazda Mazda2
  By krayzieray - October 17 - 8:32 pm

  I had my Mazda 2 for 6 months now and just love driving it anywhere I can, even with 2 child seats in the back there is ample seating room (as long as theres just kids) back seat is only good for 2 adults at most. The lay out is simple and straight forward which I find appealing over the overly done subcompact cars, though I did install a 8" navi/Bluetooth/DVD screen for around $350 which just makes the car look a little more upmarket, the seats are supportive and comfy but a little to soft for me, and with just enough cargo space. Overall I highly recommend the Mazda 2 for anyone looking for affordable, reliable, and a fun all around car, as long as you get the manual. ZOOM ZOOM

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  2012 Sport manual - 2012 Mazda Mazda2
  By kengriffey - August 18 - 1:21 pm

  Bought this car new and have put on 2000 miles so far. Got the Sport because I couldnt find any Touring models with manuals in my area. Excellent handling, I really feel like I can toss this car around. The shifter is very smooth and quick. At first I was worried about the 100hp but while it wont knock you back in your seat during acceleration it is more than adequate(previous car was a 9-3 Saab). Personally I like the simpleness of the car, the dash is basic and for an economy car its what it should be. Ive been averaging 33 mpg with most of my driving at 70 mph on the highway. Basically it is what most of the reviews say, a fun to drive economy car.

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  Fun with a few flaws - 2011 Mazda Mazda2
  By dp1 - June 23 - 10:00 am

  Bought this to replace a 12 year old clunker. I love driving the car. The engine does feel peppy. The lower horse power forces you work the gears. The shifter and gear box are great -- exactly what I expect from Mazda. It is always fun to drive a slow car fast. I bought the base Touring model. It had all the features I wanted; cruise, upgraded stereo, trip computer, etc. I would love to see a center console. I have no where to put my right arm on longer freeway drives.

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  Mazda 2 after 250 miles. - 2013 Mazda Mazda2
  By mikeinct - August 17 - 7:54 am

  I had concerns about the Mazda 2 based on other reviewers reports. So far my experience has been very positive. I almost bought a Honda Fit base. But for less money I bought the Mazda2 Touring MT. My feeling is that the Mazda is sportier and more fun to drive. Also I am finding that with careful use of the stick you can get much better economy than reported by EPA. On stop and go commute my mpg is mid to high thirties. I have yet to spend much time on the highway but I wont be surprised to see over 40. I like the interior and the exterior. The build quality is evident. Everything inside and on the dash is intuitive. More later...

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  Happy with M2 - 2011 Mazda Mazda2
  By rjfinva - December 7 - 1:13 pm

  Dont know what people expect. If you are looking for a high end expensive sports car, shop on! With the 5 speed, this car has more than enough get up and go, and is a blast to drive. First gear could be a little taller. Seats are frim but nit uncomfortable. It handles like a go cart, and rides like one too, thats the cars design! It holds the road like glue, but picks up all the bumps. I live in Hampton Roads, VA, mostly highway driving, and with premium gas (which I recommend for performance) I average 38 mpg if I drive conservatively. Get a K&N air filter for the performance tweak, its worth the money and the filter saves $$ in the long run as it is washable.