Fridae

Hands up if anyone can recall the previous Mazda2? With this new model, it seems Mazda has bravely bucked the endless trend of upsizing by dropping some 100kg - making it about 10 percent lighter than the previous one. Talk about EXTREME makeovers!

At 3885mm, the Mazda2 is significantly smaller than the latest wave of superminis in the likes of Peugeot 207 and Fiat Punto Grande that have ballooned and getting close to the size of cars meant to be a class above.

The Pug 207's length stands at 4030mm, 145 mm longer than the Mazda2. Hence, it is not surprising that the Mazda2 weighs a good 204kg lighter than a similarly speced lardy French model. Tree huggers, this is the REAL first step towards greener motoring. The reduction was achieved without imposing any compromises on the modern driving experience. No trickery engine management or fussy battery-engine drivetrain (group of components that generate power) can lower carbon emissions and energy wastage like looping huge numbers off the kerb weight of the car. Hmm, I am wondering if Hommer Simpson should be allowed on board!

Design
To reduce its weight, Mazda could have used aluminum like the Audi A8 but that would mean a much higher price tag or eliminate fixtures and fittings like climate control, sound systems, powered windows and so on. Thankfully, the engineers decided to painstakingly reduce the weight of the components that has to be used.

For Example:
Sound System Speakers: 1kg
Suspension: 13kg
Body (Using high tensile steel): 22kg

In total, 100kg has been shaved off should an exact sized model be made conventionally. As mentioned previously, there are no apparent compromises on comfort and safety. The Mazda2 has just received a full 5-star Euro NCAP rating; evidently there are six airbags on this model alone.

Looks wise, the petite Mazda has pulled off a phenomenon. It manages feline profile with masculine detailing. These are pointers to how a car can look good!

On the Road
If tennis superstar Serena Williams could lose some weight, she would certainly have avoided injuring her legs so often. With less weight to contend with, the 1.5L engine (essentially the same one from the previous model) has been transformed into a lively and willing performer. The Mazda2 is a delightful car to zip through the urban traffic with the alert and assuring steering. The suspension is firm without being harsh. While the noise insulation in this car is not the best, it's a fair trade off as rivals would struggle to match the Mazda2's fine driving manners.

Interior
The center console bears an uncanny resemblance to Mickey Mouse, with the gearbox suggesting the mouse having happy thoughts! There are satellite audio controls on the steering wheel, a rare and highly appreciated feature that smaller sized cars usually lack! The fabric upholstery is of good quality and is recommended over the tacky PVC upholstery offered by local aftermarket solutions. It is strange that most local buyers perceive the "leather" seats as desirable given that they tend to generate heat and crease after some time.

Driving position is spot on as all instruments fall into my reach with ease. It is important to point out that the driver's view of the roads are unobstructed, a problem with many other cars as they continuously place more metal in the pillars of the cars in a bid to pass safety tests and convey a secure feeling to buyers.

There are design elements that will remind you that this is a car for everyday use.

The glove box comes with an integrated magazine rack and there is the all-important AUX jack for i-Pod dependants, like myself. Overall the manufacturer has done well to instill a quality feel that the interior will hold up well over years of abuse. While some may bark at the lack of soft feel touch plastics, beauty is skin deep in this application.

Last lap
First time car buyers and tired Corolla Altis drivers should apply here. While the Yaris has been dropped by Toyota in Singapore, the worthy competitors for the Mazda2 are the ageing Nissan March, the way-too common Suzuki Swift and the newly launched confused looking Honda Jazz (currently available only through parallel importers).

Fridae Auto Club recommends the Mazda2 as the alpha choice.

	Mazda2 R(A)
Engine/Transmission	1498cc 4 cylinder 16V, DOHC 4-Speed Automatic
Max. output	103 BHP @ 6000rpm
Max. torque	137 NM @ 4000rpm
Acceleration 0-100 km/h	12.5 secs
Top speed	168 km/h
Fuel consumption (combined)	13km/Litre
CO2 emissions	140 g/km
Dimensions (L x W x H) /Weight	3895 x 1695 x 1475 mm/1025 kg
Price with COE*	$ 58,488

*Prices quoted are indicative of prices in Singapore. Please contact your local distributor for prices in your country.

Linus believes that car manufacturers should inform prospective buyers the amount of resources/energy required to build a car.