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Mazda 2 1.4D TS2

You're in the market for a practical supermini-cum-MPV, but also hanker after diesel power to ease economy that bit further. The problem is, our class favourite, Honda's Jazz, has only one engine - and it's a petrol. A diesel Citroen C3 could fit the bill, but its cabin does not have the same level of versatility. However, Mazda now offers a perfect solution to this little conundrum.

By Gavin Ward

April 2003

You're in the market for a practical supermini-cum-MPV, but also hanker after diesel power to ease economy that bit further. The problem is, our class favourite, Honda's Jazz, has only one engine - and it's a petrol. A diesel Citroen C3 could fit the bill, but its cabin does not have the same level of versatility. However, Mazda now offers a perfect solution to this little conundrum.

We've already had a drive of its new 2 in petrol guise in Europe, but this time we've managed to get behind the wheel of the oil-burner on UK roads for the first time. The 1.4-litre powerplant isn't exactly a novelty, having been used in offerings from Ford, Peugeot and Citroen. But with 160Nm of torque, it can make for relatively rapid progress. To keep the turbo on song the revs must remain above 2,000rpm, but, even when pushing hard, economy is fine at a combined 62.8mpg.

The baby Mazda is surprisingly good fun on the open road, too. Its 2,490mm wheelbase is the longest in its class, and this stable platform combined with compliant suspension sees the car absorb bumps efficiently without rolling too much in corners. However, performance is only one part of the Mazda 2 story - practicality is another.

The rear bench folds nearly flat, allowing for a 1,044-litre boot. The front passenger seat also tips forward to accommodate long objects. All trim levels get steering wheel-mounted audio controls, and there are two front gloveboxes, plus various cubbies dotted around the cabin. With the rear doors opening to an 80-degree angle, getting in and out of the back isn't a problem, either.

Despite the impressive features, the cabin isn't as clever as the Jazz's. But if you need the economy of a diesel, the Mazda may be more 2 your taste.

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FIRST OPINION

    A lot of thought has gone into the 2's versatile cabin, while the ride is more comfortable than that of the Mazda's Fiesta cousin. However, some plastics feel cheap, while the folding rear seats are not as clever as the Jazz's. If you can do without a diesel, the Honda is still the better choice.
 

AT A GLANCE

    100mph 2 diesel starts at £9,695
    Covers 0-60mph in 15 seconds
    62.8mpg fuel consumption
     
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