Mazda2 Neo and Kia Rio go head to head in this comparative review.
VALUE from $17,440 |
VALUE from $18,290 |
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| The most popular car in the light class outsells our COTY three-to-one. Solid and safe car even in base Neo form, it has features you once only got in family cars, among them cruise control and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. Add Mazda's solid resale and it's a strong proposition. |
Korean cars are improving in perceived value on the used market. This one costs a bit more than the Mazda but has extras such as Bluetooth connectivity with audio streaming. The lack of cruise control in this model is a sad omission. |
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 TECHNOLOGY |
TECHNOLOGY |
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The 1.5-litre engine is slightly bigger than the Rio's but has less power, not that anyone will notice. Torque is the same at 135Nm. The engine is married to a four-speed auto, which is quiet and smooth and gets the job done. |
The engine has a little more power to deal with its extra 100-odd kg. Still, the Kia Rio manages 0.5L/100km better economy. The four-speed auto is a competent transmission if a little slow to down-shift. The manual option has six speeds to the Mazda's five. |
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DESIGN |
DESIGN |
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| It may look like a Manga character but it gets the heart rate going. Still, the interior is in need of an update; it's all a bit grey and old next to the newcomer. Seats are especially supportive and comfortable with cool cloth designs. | This is the fresh face in this class and it looks more Euro than Korean. Bat-shaped grille and headlights give it an aggressive yet cheerful image. Interior is modern and airy. Rear passenger and cargo space are ample. | ||||||||
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SAFETY |
SAFETY |
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The Neo gets four stars from ANCAP but airbags have since been added to match the five-star Maxx variant. Front discs and rear drums are backed by electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist. The spare's a space-saver |
It gets the full five stars from ANCAP and adds hillstart assist and doors that automatically unlock in a crash. Importantly, there's a full-size spare tyre so you can travel out of the city with confidence |
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DRIVING |
DRIVING |
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There's a solid feel to this car even though it is lighter than the Rio. That comes through in low cabin noise, connected feeling in the steering and sensible road manners. |
Australian-tuned suspension works well on our pitted roads. It has a good ride while feeling taut and connected to the road. There's a bit of road noise, especially around the wing mirrors and in the back. | ||||||||
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VERDICT
We love the trusty little Mazda and consider it a safe and solid bet, but the brash newcomer is knocking loudly on the top-seller's door.
