Mazda Mazda2 1.3 TS2 3dr Car Review - March 2012

The four cylinder engine delivers a fairly average power output of 83 bhp at 6000 rpm with torque figures of 90 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 106 mpg.

Acceleration is naturally a little on the slow side and the Mazda takes a lengthy 13.6 seconds to travel from 0-62 mph – meaning reaching its top speed of 106 mph could be a little strenuous.

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, alloy wheels, 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 service expected from a car of this class.

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

In terms of practicality, the boot offers 250 litres of space with the seats up and 787 litres when the seats are folded down. This puts the vehicle 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 £11,130 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 11. Even the resale values of these cars are fairly strong and this is a definite benefit for buyers looking for long term ownership.

Therefore, as a practical and affordable family hatchback the Mazda2 1.2 TS2 performs fairly well and there are plenty of benefits on offer for buyers. The only disadvantage is the lack of interior equipment fitted as standard but upgrading to a higher trim level is the easiest way to resolve this.