Mazda 2 Hybrid Under Test

Mazda has introduced a small full hybrid vehicle, the Mazda 2, which is essentially the Toyota Yaris hybrid. Despite sharing the hybrid technology with the Yaris, there are notable differences between the two cars.

Mazda has made several design modifications, incorporating their trademark branding elements throughout the vehicle, such as the radiator grille, steering wheel, key, and rear. The only mention of the Mazda 2 branding on the rear is to ensure comprehensive coverage of the main differences when compared to the Toyota Yaris Hybrid.

The hybrid variant of the Mazda 2 differs significantly from the other combustion-powered models in the Mazda 2 lineup. Instead, it shares its hybrid technology with the Toyota Yaris and is supplied to Mazda from Toyota’s European plant. If you require guidance on choosing between the Yaris and the Mazda 2 Hybrid, we recommend making a decision based on your personal preferences.

While the front seats of the Mazda 2 Hybrid provide good comfort, the rear seats are cramped and uncomfortable.

New 2022 Mazda 2 Hybrid available to order now from £20,300 | Auto Express

The Mazda 2 Hybrid features a 1.5-liter three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine combined with a 59 kW synchronous motor. The power for the motor is sourced from a 21.5 kg lithium-ion battery located beneath the rear seat, with a modest capacity of 0.8 kWh. However, the vehicle is not designed for extended electric-only driving, as its primary focus is on quickly utilizing and recovering energy through regenerative braking.

This setup allows the electric motor to provide frequent and substantial boosts, providing a homogeneous vitality that the underpowered petrol engine alone could not achieve. The Mazda 2 Hybrid employs a more complex planetary gear set transmission, as opposed to a conventional CVT transmission, to efficiently distribute power from both the engine and the electric motor.

Moderately effective

Mazda 2

Achim Hartman

The two drives, referring to the Toyota and Mazda vehicles being discussed, exhibit safe performance but lack any notable handling capabilities.

Toyota has achieved optimal refinement in the constant switching on and off of their drives, resulting in an efficient and harmonious driving experience when paired with a composed driving style. As a result, the system generates fuel consumption figures that easily remain below the five-liter threshold.

However, when driven more aggressively, fuel consumption increases, particularly during highway trips where the drive system has limited opportunities for recovery. In the test, the fuel consumption of 5.9 liters per 100 kilometers is somewhat excessive considering the effort and price of the second vehicle.

Speaking of price, the Mazda vehicle starts at 23,190 euros, which is 200 euros higher than the comparably well-equipped Yaris. While this difference may be justifiable based on technical qualities, it is difficult to rationalize in terms of other aspects.

The Mazda falls short in terms of interior space, with narrow rear seating and a compact trunk. The suspension is firm, offering stability but lacking in refinement even in the highest trim level. The vehicle handles safely, but its handling capabilities are limited to basic maneuvers and do not provide any notable excitement. Therefore, the Mazda 2 Hybrid can be considered an efficient car, but it certainly does not leave a lasting impression in terms of comfort, space, or handling.

Mazda2 Hybrid | City Car | Mazda UK

Technical specifications

	Mazda 2 1.5 Hybrid VVT-I Select
Basic price	€29,190
External dimensions	3940x1745x1505mm
Trunk volume	286 to 935L
Displacement / engine	1490 cc / 3 cylinder
Performance	68 kW / 92 hp at 5500 rpm
Top speed	175km/h
0-100km/h	10.8s
Consumption	3.0L/100km
Test consumption	5.9L/100km