subject: The Mazda 2 Engineering Perfection [print this page] Somewhere in the mid-1990s, Mazda lost its way. Previously it had garnered a reputation for building exciting, stylish, quality cars delivering some of the finest automotive hardware to come out of Japan.
The funky bubble 121 became the staid Metro 121, the swoopy Astina hatch reverted to a run of the mill-styling formula, the 626 lost its V6 power and by the end of the decade, the twin-turbo rotary RX-7 was no more. About the only model left in the line-up to engender any excitement was the superb MX-5.
At the upper end are the European products like the Peugeot 206, Citroen C3, Renault Clio and VW Polo, which form a premium light sectorWith such a split, what you are getting in the premium end of the light-car market are well-equipped, refined and great little cars to that belie their size. It might not exactly be cheap and cheerful, but the segment does generally provide better value, safer and far more fun in your little urban runabout.
Under the hood is a 16-valve 1.5-litre motor that generates a maximum power of 82kW and peak torque of 141Nm - a substantial jncrease on the 121's 1.5 that produced only sixtyfourkW and 128Nm.
What really impresses is the steering, which while still being light enough for easy urban manoeuvrability, provides a turn-in and follow through that is sharp and direct. Push the 2 into a corner with enthusiasm and it confidently follows your desired line with plenty of grip, minimal body roll and almost sporty dynamic control.
Getting comfy in the driver's seat is easy with a height-adjustable base and tilt-adjustable steering column. Overall, the 2 is significantly larger in all directions than the 121 it replaces, and there is plenty of room up front for occupants and lots of decent-sized practical cubbies for bits and pieces.
Rear passengers benefit from plenty of headroom, and because the rear base is raised, enough legroom for a comfortable cross-city ride. There are three rear lap/sash belts, but it would be a big squeeze for three adults. The boot is a good size, and expandable with an easy-to-use fifty fifty split-fold rear seat back. Look for one here Second Hand VW Car Sales In Kerry to suit your needs.
