Used Mazda 2 review: 2007-2009

Mazda was once one of the innovators in the car industry, but somewhere in the '90s it became a follower. In short it lost its way.

Fast-forward to the noughties and it had rediscovered its mojo with trendsetting models like the '6', '3' and baby '2'. By 2007 when it launched the revamped '2' the Mazda brand was reinvigorated, its cars were interesting, appealing, and selling fast. The DE '2' was the first of the new generation models to be renewed, and brought a cheeky new look and features designed to appeal particularly to women. To bolster that appeal the designers of the '2' included things like a magazine rack in the glove box and a flat space between the seats that was said to be ideal for a handbag. Overall the '2' was smaller than its predecessor despite being the same length and width.

Even so the cabin was still quite roomy for the size of car, although access to the rear seat was awkward and the boot was smaller. Power came from a 1.5-litre DOHC four-cylinder petrol engine that produced 76kW and 137Nm when operating at its peaks. Two transmissions were offered, a quick-shifting five-speed manual and a four-speed auto. Underneath the '2' was built on a new platform that was jointly developed with Ford.

The result was a well-balanced chassis with a comfortable ride and reassuring road manners. Despite being the entry model the Neo was decently equipped with the essentials for a car today. The features included air-conditioning, remote central locking, immobiliser, power windows and mirrors, and CD sound.

At the top of the range, the Genki had even more, with alloy wheels, fog lamps, leather steering wheel, rear spoiler and a sporty body kit.

IN THE SHOP

Now four years old the DE Mazda2 is performing well in service with very few complaints from owners, which is always a good indication of a sound, robust design. With little to worry about from a mechanical and reliability viewpoint focus on the maintenance of a potential buy to ensure it has been well cared for.

Also check for the telltale signs of a crash, particularly one that has been poorly repaired. Look for mismatching paint, poor panel fit, oddly coloured window tints etc.

IN A CRASH

Being a car of the modern era the Mazda2 came well equipped with safety features. The base Neo was standard with dual front airbags and seat belt pretensioners, plus ABS brakes with emergency brake assistance and electronic brakeforce distribution, which was enough to win a 4-star stamp from ANCAP.

At the top of the class the Genki had the added safety of head and side airbags, and was given an extra star on the ANCAP scale.

UNDER THE PUMP

Mazda claimed the '2' would average between 6.0 and 6.5L/100km depending on the transmission, which is commendable by any measure. The base requirement was for 91-octane unleaded fuel, regular unleaded, but Mazda has also given its blessing to use the cheaper E10 blend.

MAZDA2 - 2007-2009

AT A GLANCE
Price new: $17,400 to $22,495
Transmission: 5-speed manual, 4-speed auto; front-wheel drive
Economy: 6.0-6.5 L/100 km Body: 5-door hatch, 3-door hatch
Variants: Neo entry level, Maxx and Genki
Safety: 4 to 5 stars ANCAP

VERDICT

Safe, well-built and reliable little car that's perfect for zipping around town.