Mazda Mazda2 1.3 TS 5dr Car Review - March 2012

The four cylinder engine delivers a fairly average power output of 74 bhp at 6000 rpm with torque figures of 88 lb-ft at 3500 rpm. For those who prioritise performance above other features this will be a little disappointing but for the average family it is more than adequate, giving the car a fairly average top speed of 104 mph.

Acceleration is naturally a little on the slow side and the Mazda takes a lengthy 14.9 seconds to travel from 0-62 mph – meaning reaching its top speed of 104 mph could be a little strenuous. Those interested in enhanced performance can choose to upgrade to the Mazda2 1.3 TS2 but the improvements are only minimal.

Engine noise delivers the sporty sounds which drivers desire but is not disruptive or overly intrusive within the cabin, making the overall driving experience comfortable.

In terms of in-car equipment, this model is a little lacking and those interested in high levels of comfort may want to upgrade their choice.

Standard equipment which is fitted includes: power steering, central locking, air conditioning, electric door mirrors, electric front windows and an advanced stereo system with both CD and MP3 compatibility.

Unfortunately a number of features such as Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, climate control and stability control are not even available as cost options on this model.

Reliability is expected to be strong within this model thanks to Mazda’s strong reputation for building high quality vehicles. This means that owners should have little concerns about their investment and there is always a three year warranty for 60,000 miles offered on the car to increase these assurances.

Unfortunately, safety levels can be seen to let the car down a little and this hatchback fails to offer some of the services expected from a car of this class.

Safety features which are included as standard fittings include: driver and passenger airbags, an immobiliser, an alarm and electronic brake-force distribution. Unfortunately, other key features such as stability control are not available on this trim level meaning customers will have to upgrade to a more advanced trim to benefit from these services. Even front side airbags are not an option – although they do become a standard fitting on the Mazda2 1.3 TS2.

In terms of practicality, the boot offer 250 litres of space with the seats up and 787 litres when the seats are folded down. This puts this as average for the class, allowing it to compete fairly well against rival models.

Aside from the boot, space within the cabin is fairly good for a hatchback and the car can fit four adults comfortably. Getting five adults into the vehicle would be a bit more difficult however and would result in restricted movement and a somewhat uncomfortable drive.

Priced at £10,655 the low price tag is one of this car’s biggest attributes. On top of this low purchase price the car also benefits from low running costs with fuel efficiency of 55.4 mpg making refuelling inexpensive.

Moreover, road tax falls under a fairly low band (C) thanks to carbon emissions of just 119 g/km. Insurance premiums also register at the bottom end of the scale under insurance group 9. Even the resale values of these cars are fairly strong and this is a definite benefit for buyers looking for long term ownership.

However, the Mazda2 1.3 TS2 costs just £475 more and offers slightly stronger performance credentials alongside the added benefit of front side airbags as standard and would therefore be the better option for buyers looking for a reliable and safe family car.