Haima 2

Inside the Haima 2, it is business as usual. The Mazda 2 inspiration is evident here as well. The car has spent quite some time in our markets and has constantly been updated to keep it up to date. The layout of the color matched dash feels modern and funky. The three-spoke steering wheel has gained audio controls on all but the standard model. The topmost variant now also comes with a 7” LCD screen serving as the infotainment system. The rest have to do with just a radio with a USB connectivity. The base model comes with a 2-speaker system while the rest get 6. While this may all seem very promising, the quality of the materials reminds us of the cheapness of the car. The air conditioner is manual and the seats are cloth. But they are sizable and comfortable. The rear seats provide a surprising amount of leg room. There is ample space in the glove box and the many cup holders. The rear seats are foldable if there is a need for extra space despite the deep trunk. The higher variants also gain a parcel shelf in the rear. The driver gets to use a conventional twin-pod instrument cluster.

Haima in its initial days had a strong relationship with Mazda and the Haima 2 is a result of that collaboration. Haima might say that is not the case. But still hints of the old Mazda 2 can be seen in the Haima 2. Some elements like the projector headlights are an improvement while others like the flat black grille were better on the Mazda. Yet the car is more muscular with flared wheel haunches and even tries to inspire an off-road aesthetic with its roof rails and under guards. The truth behind these off-roading aspirations is anyone’s guess with 15” tires shod with 185/55 tires. At least they are swanky 10 spoke aluminum alloys on the 1.5L variants. The wheels do not look out of place when put in perspective with the car’s compact dimensions of 3918 mm (L) X 1725 mm (W) X 1518 mm (H). Haima also provides a wide range of color choices. There are diamond white, apple green, and moondust silver all of which are also adorned with extensive stickering to give it a sporty feel.

The Haima 2 comes with independent MacPherson struts in the front and non-independent H-Type torsion beam in the rear. Steering is light and very well suited for urban use. However, the sound deadening inside the cabin could be improved. There is also a fair amount of roll due to the rear suspension setup that shows when the car is pushed into corners.

There are two engine options as already mentioned. The smaller engine is the 1.3 L inline 4 DOHC 16V unit mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. This produces a maximum power output of 92 hp at 6000 rpm and peak torque of 121 Nm at 4000 rpm. The other engine is a 1.5 L inline 4 DOHC 16V that can be had with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed ASG automatic transmission. The peak power output from this is 105 hp at 6000 rpm and peak torque is 104 Nm at 4000 rpm. Both the engines are Euro IV compliant. They are not the most sporty engines as expected and take a handful of revs to truly deliver. But for everyday use, they feel alright. The mileage is also not the best at 12-15 kmpl on average but is still manageable.

Except for the standard variant, which has to do with a single airbag for the driver, all others come with airbags for both the driver and the front passenger. Braking is relegated to a disc brake setup in the front and drum brakes in the rear. These are aided by ABS and EBD along with brake assist. There are other conveniences too like the front seat belt reminder, child safety door lock, and remote locking.

There is a lot of criticism that can be leveled against the Haima 2. But at its price range, it is very difficult to beat when all you are looking for is a spacious and comfortable hatchback with decent kit and safety.