2020 Mazda 2 - First impression

The Mazda 2 has been in the market for over two decades since its initial release in 1996. Known in other parts of the world as the “Mazda Demio,” this sub-compact car has been one of the top choices for Filipino drivers because of its small size and relatively easy handling that made it an ideal vehicle to drive in the country’s narrow city roadways. 

The latest-generation Mazda 2 delivers some much-needed updates both inside and out. Inspired by the new design language of the latest Mazda aesthetics, the 2020 Mazda 2 sports an elegant yet imposing stance thanks to its wider front grille that complements its LED headlights. At a glance, the exterior upgrades of the 2020 Mazda 2 are both subtle and tasteful – a fitting prelude to what it has in store inside the cabin and under the hood. 

Here’s our quick, first impression review of the 2020 Mazda 2.

Refined Exterior Design 

Mazda cleverly puts the design and engineering involved in the 2020 model as a “meticulous refinement.” This concept is unmistakable in its smooth lines and sophisticated curves. Although not far from what the previous year’s model had to offer; the 2020 Mazda 2 boasts a redesigned grille with leaner headlights akin to those found on the Mazda 3 and the Mazda 6. Having said, similar to the aforementioned vehicles, the 2020 Mazda 2 does not have fog lights and instead it is outfitted with new and advanced adaptive LED with running LED daytime lights that can be controlled individually. 

The all-new Mazda 2 also comes with a revamped wheel design. The 16-inch wheels boast straight spokes lined with a silver metallic finish that evokes the brand’s ideals – sportiness and sophistication. Its taillights, as well as its rear bumpers, were made to look cleaner if not more elegant. All the cosmetic upgrades are meant to give the 2020 Mazda 2, the face-lift it deserves as it now drops its “Demio” moniker and adopts the more global “Mazda 2” name. 

Modernized Interior 

Inside the cabin, the 2020 Mazda 2 now features modernized interiors that incorporate deep black hues and cool brown tones in its overall motif. These color notes were used to create a look that’s both mature but playful and are found on both the front and the back seats. The front seats are also redesigned for a more comfortable ride giving the driver and the passenger a more ergonomic experience especially during long trips. 

Bundled with more tech than ever, the 2020 Mazda 2 offers a safer and a cohesive driving experience which makes this sub-compact vehicle a haven for tech-savvy drivers. Integrated with the modernized interior is the Mazda Connect Infotainment System which offers a 7-inch touch screen panel with smartphone mirroring capabilities. The colloquially known MZD is both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible. However, titos and titas who still keep old CDs won’t be able to use them in the 2020 Mazda 2 since it dropped the old CD players in lieu of two USB ports and a 12V outlet. 

Engine Specifications 

The all-new Mazda 2 is powered by Mazda’s updated 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-G engine. The refreshed engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission and is capable of producing 108 hp and 141 Nm of torque. Along with these small but decent engine upgrades, comes a slew of other improvements including reduced pumping losses, enhanced anti-knock properties, and improved temperature control. 

All these are rooted in Mazda’s driving concept called “Jinba-Ittai," a Japanese phrase that directly translates as “horse and rider as one.” By creating a dynamic experience, the features create oneness between driver and vehicle. 

The 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-G engine is offered in both the 2020 Mazda 2 1.5 AT Hatchback Elite and the 2020 Mazda 2 1.5 AT Sedan Elite variants. The updated engine specs are said to increase the 2020 Mazda 2’s overall fuel efficiency which makes city driving all the more exciting. 

Improved Safety Features

As the 2020 Mazda 2 gets outfitted with better driving tech, its driver and passengers will also see increased protection and safety features. 

Apart from the new LED lamps with Auto Levelling capabilities, the 2020 Mazda 2 also boasts a well-rounded set of car-tech centered on assisting the driver and keeping the passengers safe. These include Mazda’s Dynamic Stability Control, ABD-EBD, dual airbags, a rear camera, and rear parking sensors. 

Along with these safety features, the 2020 Mazda 2 is also equipped with Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus which results in better driving control making the all-new Mazda 2, an ideal vehicle for both slow and fast driving situations. 

Here’s a quick look of the 2020 Mazda 2’s safety features -

• ISOFIX Equipped
• Rear Parking Sensor
• Rearview Camera
• Dual Front Airbags
• Anti-Locking Braking (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Equipped
• Smart Keyless Entry System Equipped with Push Start Button

Pricing

The 2020 Mazda 2 is offered in 2 variants in the Philippine market. Check out the Mazda 2 price -

• 2020 Mazda 2 1.5 AT Sedan Elite - ₱995,000
• 2020 Mazda 2 1.5 AT Hatchback Elite - ₱995,000

Verdict 

The 2020 Mazda 2 is a tad better than its predecessor in terms of safety features and exterior design. However, the improved engine makes the updated version an appealing choice for many prospective car buyers. 

Here’s an example of why the 2020 Mazda 2 is slightly better than its predecessor. 

2019 Mazda 2
Maximum Output	107 PS/6000 rpm
Maximum Torque	139 Nm/4000 rpm
2020 Mazda 2
Maximum Output	110 PS/6,000 rpm
Maximum Torque	141 Nm/4,000 rpm

So, if you’re in the fence for a powerful, agile, and dependable sub-compact vehicle, make sure to check out the 2020 Mazda 2.

Also read: Mazda CX-8 - What to expect?