Mazda 2 Hatch – Top alternatives

For those of you that are scouring the landscape for a decent B-segment hatchback, there are quite a few options. However, among those, one of the most convincing is the Mazda 2 hatchback. The Mazda 2 hatchback is definitely the most affordable car sold by the Japanese marque in Malaysia and is built upon the Mazda-Toyota co-developed DJ platform. Presently in its fourth generation, the outgoing model of the Mazda 2 has been around for some time now. In Malaysia, it’s available in three variants: the entry-level Mid Spec (ironic, yes) that starts at RM 75,866, while the mid-tier variant costs RM 87,586 and the top variant is priced at a hair under RM 93,000.

Just as with more expensive models in their line-up, the 2 hatchback also features Mazda’s widely-accepted and well-liked ‘KODO—Soul of Motion’ design language. This means that despite its rather diminutive size, the 2 comes across as an eye-catching and well-styled subcompact family hatchback. It also boasts other positive attributes such as good build quality, fit & finish, and a sporty driving position. And depending upon the variant, the Mazda 2 hatch can be had with many modern convenience and safety features, too. Under the hood of the Mazda 2, lies a SKYACTIV-G 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine which makes 114 hp and 148 Nm of torque. Driving the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic gearbox, this engine propels the 2 hatchback to a top speed of nearly 190 kmph, whilst the tonne-mark comes up in around 9 seconds.

With all that being said, however, what are the Mazda 2 hatchback’s top alternates?

Alternative 1 – Toyota Yaris

Toyota launched the all-new Yaris hatch just over a couple of months ago, and even over such a short time, it has proven itself to be quite successful. While the Mazda 2 hatchback’s design is fairly modern and stylish, the new Yaris just looks that much more flamboyant and energetic. When comparing their interiors, it becomes immediately apparent that Toyota’s cabin is far roomier and can easily accommodate five adults in relative comfort. The new Yaris also offers other benefits over the Mazda, including a lower price tag of between RM 70,888 to RM 83,888, and almost unsurpassable resale value and reliability rating.

However, the Toyota Yaris trails behind the Mazda 2, especially in terms of its driving dynamics, outright performance, and cabin material quality. The new Yaris makes 105 hp and 140 Nm of torque from its 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, which is managed by a 7-step CVT gearbox. The Yaris is good for a top speed of 175 kmph and a 0-100 kmph sprint time of 11 seconds. Some of its most notable safety features include Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), Panoramic-View Monitor (PVM), a Digital Video Recorder (DVR), and an impressive array of seven airbags as standard.

Alternative 2 – Honda Jazz

Costing between RM 70,242 and RM 87,707, the Honda Jazz sports a more practical yet sophisticated and grown-up design, especially when compared to other cars in its class. The Jazz scores plenty well when it comes to interior space and practicality, too. Its relatively considerate dimensions and proportions mean that there’s easily enough space for five adults in the cabin of this Honda. Furthermore impressive is the Jazz’s total boot volume of 363 litres - making it that much more practical. Also, the Jazz offers compellingly low NVH levels, thus boosting passenger comfort on longer rides.

In its petrol-only avatar, the Honda Jazz’s 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine produces 118 hp and 145 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the hybrid powertrain not only manages a higher output of 137 hp and 170 Nm but also 25 kmpl if driven very carefully. However, despite its power figures, both variants of the Jazz require over 10 seconds to hit 100 kmph, while neither can go beyond 180 kmph. As for their transmissions, the hybrid gets a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, whilst the regular car comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). With its 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating, the top trim of the Honda Jazz gets Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Multi-Angle Reverse Camera, and six airbags.

Alternative 3 – Volkswagen Polo

The Volkswagen Polo comes in two variants, namely the entry-level Comfortline and the fully-loaded JOIN trim. Bearing a price tag of between RM 74,990 and RM 81,990, the Polo might be more expensive than the cars on this list, but it feels more expensive, too -- thanks to its impeccable and famed German build quality and subtle yet upmarket styling. The Polo’s higher price is also reflected in the way it feels to drive - stable and well mannered - not to mention that it can hold its own around some twisty bits as well. In terms of its cabin insulation and NVH, the Volkswagen Polo even trumps the already quite good Honda Jazz.

The Polo is powered by a naturally-aspirated 1.6-litre four-popper, producing 103 hp and 153 Nm of torque, and is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. However, it isn’t that quick - taking 11.5 seconds to do 100 kmph, though a top whack of 184 kmph is decent enough. The VW is also lacking some important safety tech, as there are only two airbags and no traction or stability control of any kind.