Mazda 2 2015 Problems

You need to decide on whether you want an SUV or a hatch before you do anything else. The SUV gives you a better view of the road, is practical, and the CX-3 is a good choice, but hatches can also be attractive. I would rule out the Mazda2 in your case, as it would seem to be too small for your needs, but the 3, Corolla and i30 are all good cars that would deliver on the things you want.

Mazda Australia tells me your car will arrive this week and, as a goodwill gesture after the delay, you will be getting free window tinting and three years of free roadside assist coverage.

The Mazda2 is rated to tow 500kg unbraked or 900kg braked, which would seem sufficient to handle your box trailer, but it depends on the weight of the trailer. Other cars of a similar size are similarly rated, so if you want to tow more than the Mazda2 is rated for you would need a larger car.

The car world has changed a lot since your Pulsar Q was a top-drawer choice and these days I would recommend the Mazda2, which gets The Tick and should be similar money but slightly easier to handle.

I’m surprised that you were offered an exchange or your money back; I’m even more amazed that you got your money back. That does say something about the paint quality of the Mazda2, and it should serve as a warning to other intending buyers to take the time to inspect the paint of any car they buy - and preferably before they drive it away from the dealership.

It sounds as if you are Yaris fans but the Mazda2 gets The Tick and is best in the class. The i20 will give you better value and, with a five-year factory warranty, it's holding its value well on the second-hand scene.

I couldn’t recommend the Cruze; there are too many problems with its auto transmission, as we have reported here at CarsGuide. Look at the Mazda2 or Mazda3, Toyota Yaris or Corolla, which are generally trouble free.

If safety is important you should order it and be prepared to wait because it is worthwhile. Don't let the dealer try to get you to buy something in stock instead.

Use Mazda ATF, which should be available at your local Mazda dealership.