DarthBalls
|
Mazda 2 1.3 TS
I requested this brand new Mazda 2 as a courtesy car when I had the MX5 in for replacement of a rattling indicator stalk. It's one of the few superminis that is close to the size of our Mk1 Fabia that I (and Mrs DB) like how it looks.
The interior of the 2 looked good, with white dials and styling similar to that of our MX5. Even this base model had aircon and a iPod socket. It actually reminded me of our Fabia inside, the driving position was spot on like the Fabia too.
Being the base 1.3 version, this 2 was pretty gutless when overtaking but was quick enough away from traffic lights, which is only to be expected.
A quick blast down some of my favourite backroad showed how well sorted the ride/handling balance is: not quite as comfortable as our Fabia (which is very comfortable for small car) but it was more responsive, turned in faster and felt very light, chuckable and a whole lot of fun. It resisted understeer and body roll very well in the tight turns. The steering was nice and direct, responsive and accurate, although lacking feel like pretty much every current mainstream car.
I like the 2 a lot. I'd liken it to driving a larger version of the current Panda - a great fun lightweight car. Obviously the 2 is a lot more practical with a decent sized boot. The lack of weight in the 2 being very noticeable compared to other cars in its class.
I'd really like to try the 1.5 Sport version of the 2 (it looks much better too, especially in white), ideally back to back with an equivalent spec Fiesta. I would be very interested to see where the extra 1000 odd quid goes on comparable Fiestas.
At the moment the 2 is the front runner for replacing our Fabia next year, although Mrs DB has been quite positive about a Panda 100HP.
|
Mark
|
Smart looking car. They seem to be very good value, too.
|
DarthBalls
|
Mazda really need to bring out a proper fast version of the 2 - it would be great.
As it stands at the moment I'm hoping Mrs DB eventually goes for a 1.5 Sport.
|
Dr. Hfuhruhurr
|
| DarthBalls wrote: | | Mazda really need to bring out a proper fast version of the 2 - it would be great. |
Especially as Ford don't seem to have any plans for a fast Fiesta
|
cbeaks1
|
If you try and want to buy a Festa drop me a PM - I might be able to save you a few quid.
|
|