2015 Mazda2 1.5L Skyactiv sedan and hatch launched, CBU Thailand priced from RM85k [+Video]



After much hype and anticipation, the multi-award winning Mazda2 or Mazda Demio, as it is known in Japan, has finally made its way here in both sedan and hatchback forms. What’s interesting is that both variants cost exactly the same (the sedan costed RM2,000 more when the order books opened last October) and its specifications mirror each other, without having the need to fork out additional cents for the sedan variant.

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QUICK FACTS

Name Mazda2 Hatchback Mazda2 Sedan
Segment
B-Segment
B-Segment
Engine 1,496cc; inline-4 cyl Skyactiv-G, DOHC 1,496cc; inline-4 cyl Skyactiv-G, DOHC
Transmission 6-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic 6-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic
Max Power 114 hp @ 6,000 rpm 114 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Max Torque 148 Nm @ 4,000 rpm 148 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Price (OTR with insurance) RM87,956.00 RM87,956.00

 

We’ve seen pre-sale brochures and spyshots of the 2014 Japan Car of the Year surfacing in the past few weeks, and the specs seem to conform to the Mazda2 that we are presenting to you today. Let’s get on with it, then.

For starters, this 2 is Mazda’s fourth incarnation of the model, and it’s also the carmaker’s fourth model to be equipped with Mazda’s full suit of Skyactiv Technology, after the CX-5, Mazda6 and Mazda3. Seven years after the last Mazda2 was introduced, this all-new model is built from the ground up and loses the Ford Fiesta’s underpinnings it’s previously based on.

Mazda2 Hatchback (15)

 

EXTERIOR

We used to think the Mazda2 looked really good in pictures, but that changed for the better when we saw the car in the metal. First things first. The 2 is now longer than the previous model, with its wheels positioned farther apart and the windscreen moved slightly to the back. This directly translates to a better and more livable cabin space, yet weighs close to 40kg less than before.

On the outside, both Mazda2 variants get reflector-type halogen headlights with manual-leveling switch and daytime running lights (bulb type). No LED DRLs here, which is quite a loss to be frank. We hope it’ll be introduced as an option, fingers crossed.

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From the front, the Mazda2 pays close resemblance to its bigger 3 sibling, thanks to the brand’s signature front grille, now accented in a dash of its body colour. Fog lights come as standard, too. At the rear, it gets rear combination lamps (bulb type, again), reverse sensors aided with a reverse camera.

Underpinning the car is Mazda’s Skyactiv-Chassis, and its suspension spells MacPherson Struts at the front and torsion beam at the rear. Both hatch and sedan variants ride on 16-inch wheels wrapped with 185/60R16 series tyres.

The real differences between the two variants are its boot space and overall length. The sedan measures at 4,320mm compared to the 4,060mm of the hatch’s. The sedan is also 25mm taller and weighs just 9kg more. With the added length, the sedan’s luggage capacity expands to 410 litres compared to the hatch’s 220 litres.

Mazda2 Hatchback (26)

 

INTERIOR

Stepping inside the Mazda2 is a pleasant affair, because then you realise that you do get what you pay for. How does leather upholstered seats, fully automated air conditioning, keyless entry and push-start ignition, driving mode (Normal and Sport), multi-function leather wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters sound to you?

If you’re not convinced, don’t worry, because the next breath you take to read this out loud will. Both Mazda2 get a first-in-class Head-Up Display (Active Driving Display, as Mazda calls it). Also standard in the cabin is the brand’s MZD Connect system, granting you a 7-inch LCD display with a rotary knob in the centre.

Mazda2 Hatchback (25)

 

The MZD Connect supports iPod, USB, SD card, MP3 and CD playback and comes pre-installed with apps like Eco-display, maintenance reminders, warnings and fuel consumption data. The screen is also where the reverse camera will feed its visual aiding job, while GPS navigation is a RM1,200 option. A total of six speakers complete the kit list here. Speaks volume about its value, no?

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PERFORMANCE

Like previously reported, under the B-Segment contender’s bonnet is Mazda’s 1.5-litre Skyactiv-G, four-cylinder DOHC engine that’s good for 114 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 148 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. It drives the front wheels via a six-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission. The engine also features the brand’s i-STOP technology which shuts off the engine at idle, thus improving fuel economy.

SAFETY

This baby Mazda doesn’t fall short on the safety front. It comes equipped with ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Hill Launch Assist, Traction Control System and Mazda’s Dynamic Stability Control. Dual SRS front airbags come with the car as standard, as with ISOFIX child anchor mounts, immobiliser and burglar alarm.

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WHAT ELSE?

Both Mazda2 variants are priced at RM87,956.00 (on-the-road with insurance) and come in four different colours – Snowflake White Pearl, Aluminium Metallic, Metropolitan Gray and everyone’s favourite, the Soul Red Metallic. It also comes with a three-year warranty and three-year free scheduled maintenance. If you’ve always fancied the Mazda3 but wouldn’t spend RM139k on a car, then this car right here will be one you cannot resist.


IMAGE GALLERY

2015 Mazda2 Hatchback

 

2015 Mazda2 Hatchback with Optional Bodykit