If only the Mazda2 was localized for ASEAN.
The Mazda2 has not been given enough credit in Malaysia and its all because of its selling price which is much higher than the segment favorite, the Malaysian designed and produced Perodua Myvi.
Well, the Mazda2 is fully imported from Japan and this puts a huge import tax on its price on arrival, plus it is ‘made in Japan’ which adds to the un-favorable currency exchange rate.
Mazda’s innovative, lightweight and ultra-stiff chassis. In securing the disparate goals of engineering a new chassis that was both lighter and stiffer, Mazda’s engineers developed an advanced straight and continuous body framework, in which each body section functions in a coordinated manner with those around it.
With a kerb weight about 1,134kg (including 75kg driver) for the petrol-powered 1.5-litre Skyactiv-G, this compact car is one of the lightest in its segment.
Already a compact car well-regarded for its handling, there were subtle updates made to the last version which is the 2020 model have enhanced its driver appeal with changes that include use of a urethane top mount in the rear dampers to enhance ride quality and revisions to the power steering to improve response and feel.
The 2020 Mazda2 continues to embody Mazda’s hugely successful award-winning Kodo: Soul of Motion design theme, to create a car with a playful, yet elegant spirit. Since its debut at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, the Mazda2 has defied convention by eschewing the traditional monobox shape that currently dominates super-mini design, and features muscular cab-rearward proportions.
Striking a high degree of visual consistency with other members of the Mazda line-up, the 2020 Mazda2 features the latest evolution of Mazda’s innovative Kodo: Soul of Motion design philosophy.
Exterior
The new front grille features a mesh pattern, bringing it into line with the style seen on the all-new Mazda3, while the wider signature five-point ‘wing’ enhances the sporty appearance of the model. Its distinctive exterior signature lines continue to run through the lower lip of the grille and into the piercing headlamps.
At the rear, the redesigned bumper gives the impression of a lower stance on the road to reinforce the Mazda2’s sporty design, while the improved rear lights complement the clean overall design.
The 2020 Mazda2 is available in the following paint options: Arctic White, Snowflake White Pearlescent, Sonic Silver, Ceramic Metallic, Eternal Blue Mica, Deep Crystal Blue Mica, Jet Black Mica, Deep Crimson Mica, Machine Grey Metallic and Polymetal Grey. In addition to this, the Mazda2 is also available in Mazda’s signature Soul Red Crystal Metallic, which uses a unique paint process to deliver glossy depth and nuanced shading.
Interior
With its reach-and-rake adjustable steering wheel, perfectly positioned pedals, supportive front seats and deep-set instrument panel, the spacious and generously appointed cabin of the 2020 Mazda2 reflects its athletic external lines with its driver-centric cabin design.
The height and shape of the door openings are optimized to ease entry and exit from the Mazda2, in even the tightest of parking spaces. Along with the centrally positioned steering wheel and pedal layout, the driver’s seat offers a generous 260mm of movement, while the steering wheel boasts 50mm of telescopic range and 50mm of rake adjustment.
The instrument and control layout sees the binnacle positioned ahead of the driver with a winged instrument panel that displays vital driving data.
This head-up display projects key driving information such as speed, turn-by-turn navigation and vehicle warnings into the driver’s line of sight.
The comfort of all occupants has also been considered with a host of upgrades designed to improve the 2020 Mazda2’s refinement. Moving through the cabin, the new front seats feature an upgraded design structure that better supports the body and helps maintain a healthy posture in which the pelvis is upright and the spine maintains a natural S-shaped curve to prevent fatigue.
Revisions to the dashboard trims, air vents louvres, door inserts and instrument hood are all examples of how improvements to materials and design have enhanced the 2020 Mazda2’s already upmarket design.
The boot space in the 2020 model remains at 280-litres, which in turn increases 950-litres with the 60:40 split rear seats folded down across all trim levels. The regular shape of the boot means it can now comfortably hold a large 72cm suitcase or a standard-sized baby buggy (with rear seats in place) or a pair of golf bags with the seats folded.
In addition, host of upgrades designed to improve the Mazda2’s cabin design, refinement and interior quietness feature throughout the updated model. Thanks to the new damping materials added throughout the cabin, reduction in the gap around the base of the B-Pillar, upgrades to the sound insulation and revised rubber sealings, occupants will be able benefit from reduced cabin noise and external vibrations.
