2020 Mazda2 starts at £15,795 02 | 10 | 2019
THE NEW 2020 MAZDA2 range — which the Japanese manufacturer says “features a renewed more sophisticated exterior design, new technology, improved refinement and an upgraded interior”, will start from £15,795. Available to order now, first deliveries are scheduled for November. (Related: Mazda2 Review)
The new model will be offered with a simplified five-model range, exclusively powered by Mazda’s familiar 1.5-litre Skyactiv-G petrol engine, which for the first time is matched to Mazda’s M Hybrid mild-hybrid system.
Visually, the upgraded Mazda2 is marked out by the adoption of the latest evolution of Mazda’s Kodo design. The new grille features a mesh pattern, bringing it into line with the style seen on the all-new Mazda3 hatchback, while the wider signature wing and revised headlights heighten the Mazda2’s sporty appearance. At the rear, the redesigned bumper gives the impression of a lower stance on the road. (Related: Limited edition Mazda CX-3 GT Sport Nav+)
Inside, revisions to dashboard trims, air vent louvres, door inserts and the instrument hood are examples of how improvements to materials and design have enhanced the Mazda2’s already upmarket interior. Highlighting Mazda’s driver centred focus, the new front seats feature a more advanced design and structure that better supports the body and helps maintain a posture in which the pelvis is upright and the spine maintains a natural S-shaped curve.
The comfort of all occupants has also been considered with a host of upgrades designed to improve refinement and interior quietness. New damping materials have been added in the cabin and a reduced gap around the base of the B-Pillar further upgrades sound insulation, as do revised sealing rubbers between the roof panel and the boot. (Related: Two days, 1100kms and a Mazda CX-3)
Already a supermini well-regarded for its handling, subtle updates have enhanced its driver appeal with changes that include use of a urethane top mount in the rear dampers and revisions to the power steering to improve response and feel. In addition, the 2020 Mazda2 features G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus) - the evolved version of Mazda’s GVC system, which now uses the brakes to apply direct yaw movement control in addition to the previous system’s engine control.
Fitted to all manual transmission cars, the 2020 Mazda2 benefits from mild-hybridisation with the debut of Mazda M Hybrid. Utilising a belt-integrated start generator (B-ISG) and brake regeneration it mobilises the B-ISG’s power generation to make the most of the energy stored in the capacitor to reduce load on the engine and enable quick restart to help lower emissions and improve fuel economy with extended auto engine stop time. As a result manual versions of the 2020 Mazda2 emit 94-95g/km depending on trim level. (Related: Mazda CX-30 compact crossover)
Priced at £15,795, the 75ps SE-L entry point to the range features a standard equipment tally that includes rear parking sensors, 15in alloys, LED headlights, climate control and cruise control. SE-L Nav, Sport Nav and GT Sport Nav models are powered by the 90ps version of 1.5-litre Skyactiv-G engine and feature Mazda Connect navigation with a seven-inch colour touch-screen, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In addition, the safety equipment tally is enhanced with Front Smart City Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning and Lane-keep Assist.
From Sport Nav onwards the 2020 Mazda2 is marked out by 16in alloys, gloss black grille treatment, rear privacy glass, shark-fin antenna and a chrome exhaust trim, plus it benefits from the smart keyless entry. At the top of the range, the flagship GT Sport Nav trim features high-end features normally the preserve of more expensive sectors, including a reversing camera, leather seats and a colour head-up display, plus heated front seats and steering wheel.
“The Mazda2 may be the smallest car we produce, but it has at its heart the same values of style, driver involvement and quality that mark out all our vehicles,” Jeremy Thomson, managing director Mazda UK, said.
“With the updated 2020 Mazda2 all of these attributes have been enhanced; the Mazda2 is now even better to drive, plus it’s more efficient. Add in the refreshed styling, upgraded interior and the generous equipment tally across all models and we have a distinctive and premium contender in what is still one of the most competitive segments in the UK car market.”
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Jim McGill