A supermini that can appeal to the head as well as the heart
Now employing the same ‘Kodo’ design language - which means the Soul of Motion - as larger models in the Mazda range, and now in its second generation in South Africa, the Mazda2 is the most stylish and distinctive small hatchback the firm has offered SA buyers. With its sights aimed squarely at the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, Renault Clio and Opel Corsa, the Mazda2 had to bring its A-game to compete in the super competitive subcompact segment.
Mazda has gone to great lengths to enhance the new 2’s refinement levels. Great care has been taken to minimise all kinds of exterior noise from entering the cabin, the sense of calm amplified by the comfort-biased suspension. Everything feels well-assembled and robust inside the 2’s spacious cabin, although those who favour soft-touch plastics will be hard-pressed to find any.
Two motors are offered in South Africa. The single 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol variant with Skyactiv technology, and the diesel model. While the 82kw petrol unit powers most of the range, and is barely audible at idle speeds; the flagship is an equally sized diesel motor that puts out 77kw and 220nm, but mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission makes this relaxed compact sportster a very interesting proposition. Claimed fuel economy is as low as 4.4 litres per 100kms in the diesel 2, while mid 5s are expected in the petrol derivative.
With light steering, progressive brakes and its small footprint, the Mazda2 is a good town car. Take the Mazda2 out on a weekend blast, and you will find you have a grin as big as the grill on the front of the car as you flick through the cogs and carve your way through the bends, which will end all too soon. The Mazda2 has to be up there with the class-leading Ford Fiesta for its handling. All models feature an electronic stability control system and six airbags.
While condensing the dynamic styling of the Kodo design language to match its compact size, the packaging for the Mazda2 is carefully designed to provide driving pleasure, a comfortable cabin environment and easy-to-use features. Stylistically the new 2’s interior isn’t dissimilar to the new MX-5 sports car, with a driver-focused section Mazda calls the cockpit zone, and a wider section in front of the passenger. The reasoning is that driver distraction is minimised with all the key information directly in front of them, while controls for the air-con and infotainment system, which aren’t looked at as frequently, are to the side where the front passenger can access them equally well.
Can the Mazda2 escape the shadow of the Fiesta, Corsa and Polo? It certainly deserves to. With a smart exterior and interior, plenty of kit and low running costs, there’s nothing to rule it out. The Mazda2 scores highly in enough areas to make it worthy of a place on your shortlist. On top of these things, the Mazda 2 is enjoyable to drive without suffering from the poor refinement of its predecessor. The range topping Hazumi turbodiesel is priced at R352 700, while the petrol engine range starts from R228 900 to R304 500 dependent on trim level. All come standard with a 3-year maintenance plan and a 3-year unlimited kilometre factory warranty.
Also worth a look: the Mazda Gives the CX-3 a Tech and Style Boost for 2026 and the Mazda Cx 60.
FAQ
Q: What does the Mazda 2 cost in South Africa?
The Mazda 2 starts from around R280,000 for the base 1.5 petrol manual, with the flagship diesel automatic pushing closer to R350,000, making it competitive with the Volkswagen Polo and Ford Fiesta in the supermini segment.
Q: Is the Mazda 2 worth buying?
The Mazda 2 is absolutely worth considering if you want a stylish, well-built supermini that's fun to drive, especially the diesel automatic which offers excellent fuel economy of 4.4 litres per 100km and smooth performance for around R350,000.
Q: What engine options are available in the Mazda 2?
The Mazda 2 offers two engine choices in South Africa: an 82kW 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and a 77kW 1.5-litre diesel that produces 220Nm of torque, with the diesel available with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Q: How fuel efficient is the Mazda 2?
The Mazda 2 diesel achieves claimed fuel consumption as low as 4.4 litres per 100km, while the petrol variants return mid-5s consumption figures, making it one of the most economical choices in the supermini class.
Q: How does the Mazda 2 compare to its rivals?
The Mazda 2 matches the class-leading Ford Fiesta for handling dynamics and offers more distinctive styling than the Volkswagen Polo, Renault Clio, and Opel Corsa, with superior build quality and a more premium cabin feel at a similar price point.
Should You Buy It?
The best supermini under R350,000 in South Africa is definitely the Mazda 2, particularly the diesel automatic variant. While the petrol model at R280,000 offers great value, spend the extra cash on the diesel for its brilliant fuel economy, smooth automatic gearbox, and relaxed cruising ability. The Mazda 2's combination of sharp handling, distinctive Kodo styling, solid build quality, and comprehensive safety kit with six airbags makes it a smarter buy than the more common Polo or Fiesta. Yes, you should buy it, especially if you appreciate a car that appeals to both your wallet and your driving enthusiasm.
