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The Mazda2 Neo has good levels of grip and it’s agile on the road.
Vlad Manu road tests and reviews the Mazda2 Neo, with specs, fuel economy and verdict.
This popular small Mazda2 arrived here in 2007 and with some small revisions over the years it is still mixing it up with the newer cars in the light car segment. With its introduction, Mazda signalled their intent to concentrate on reducing weight and size but at the same time maintain interior space and increasing quality. As a result nearly six years on it’s still among today's best sellers.
VALUE
Prices start from $15,790 for the Neo manual while the automatic version we tested pushes the price to start from $17,440. When compared to its main rival, the Ford Fiesta sister car which it shares the platform with, the main sticking point is that this automatic transmission only comes with a 4-speed box compared to the Fiesta’s 6-speed dual clutch.
There’s no Bluetooth connectivity for phone or audio streaming and the audio quality is just acceptable. The facelifted DE Series 2 added additional airbags and a multi function steering wheel with audio controls while the MY13 model introduced in 2012 also added a much needed AUX audio input and USB socket.
TECHNOLOGY
The engine is a 1.5-litre petrol which produces 76 kW and 135N and delivers reasonably smooth performance. Fuel consumption is quoted at 6.8L/100 for the combined cycle but expect figures to be closer to 9L/100 if you’re doing predominately urban driving like we did.
The automatic is decent enough for a unit with only four gears with smooth changes but if you spend your time closer to the highway speed limit prepare for a bit of extra revving noise. It’s fair to say the lower number of gears make the auto better suited to driving around town.
DESIGN
Despite this model being around for a few years it still manages to look better than some of its rivals. There’s a strong design language at Mazda and that flows through to even their entry level models.
The interior might be trailing some European competitors in terms of material quality but it’s tight and well put together. The boot is average in size but strangely it seems a little smaller than the Ford Fiesta sister car.
SAFETY
The Mazda2 gets a five star ANCAP safety rating and features include stability and traction control as well as six airbags standard. There are only drum brakes on the rear but the absence of disc brakes is not noticeable due to the size of the car and the fact that they perform satisfactorily.
DRIVING
It has good levels of grip and it’s agile on the road. The steering is precise and light and that helps to make the parking and manoeuvring into tight spaces nice and easy.
Engine specifications might not sounds like much but the car weighs only 1032kg so its performance and handling are reasonable for this type of car. Ride is a little firm and easily unsettled by potholes.
VERDICT
It might be beginning to show its age but it’s a solid, well put together package and when combined with Mazda’s strong record for reliability and resale value, it still makes for a serious contender in the segment.
Mazda2 Neo automatic
Price: from $17,440
Engine: 1.5-litre four-cylinder, 76kW/135Nm
Transmission: four-speed auto, FWD
Economy: 6.8-litres/100km, CO2 162 g/km
RIVALS
Toyota Yaris - see other verdicts
Price: from $16,590 (auto)
Engine: 1.3L four-cylinder, 63kW/121Nm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic, FWD
Thirst: 6.3L/100km, 147g/km CO2
Kia Rio - see other verdicts
Price: from $17,290 (auto)
Engine: 1.4L four-cylinder, 79kW/135Nm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic, FWD
Thirst: 6.3L/100km, 150g/km CO2
Opel Corsa - see other verdicts
Price: from $20,490 (auto)
Engine: 1.4L four-cylinder, 74kW/130Nm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic, FWD
Thirst: 6.3L/100km, 147g/km CO2
Ford Fiesta - see other verdicts
Price: from $17,490 (auto)
Engine: 1.6L four-cylinder, 89 kW/151Nm
Transmission: 6 speed automatic dual clutch, FWD
Thirst: 6.1L/100, 146g/km CO2
Holden Barina - see other verdicts
Price: from $17,990 (auto)
Engine: 1.6-litre 4-cylinder, 85kW/155Nm
Transmission: 6-speed automatic, FWD
Thirst: 6.7L/100Km
Suzuki Swift - see other verdicts
Price: from $17,990 (auto)
Engine: 1.4-litre 4-cylinder, 70kW/130Nm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic, FWD
Thirst: 5.5L/100Km, 147 g/km CO2
Last Reviewed by Vlad Manu on February 17 2013
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