Mazda 2 (2003 - 2007) 1.4 Antares 5d (2005/05) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That I'm a fool for not checking more thoroughly about the origins and engineering of the car.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Not much to be honest. The design doesn't really turn heads - its pretty anonymous. Its the sort of car that people rarely comment on, although other people have criticised the oceans of plastic inside.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I wouldn't buy the 2 again because I believe it is basically an over-priced Ford with a better badge on it. Its simply not worth the money. For the same reason I would steer clear of Mazdas in general now. They are increasingly just expensive Fords.

What are you likely to buy next?

I've done it - a Kia. None of the mainstream stuff appeals.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£10,000

When did you buy the car?

July 2005

Did you get a good deal and why?

Looking back, this was expensive. I was lead to believe (and I should have checked at the time) that I was getting extras free, but it turns out that this wasn't actually the case. Also, losing £5,000 in depreciation over 14 months is pretty dire.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Purchased for Mazda's legendary reliability...

What was the dealer like?

Okay, but either poor product knowledge, or they were dishonest. I specifically asked, in the light of past small Mazdas, whether the 2 was Mazda or Ford engineered. I was promised that although the chassis was Ford, everything else was Mazda. This is not true. The 2 is built by Ford on the Fiesta/Fusion production line in Spain, and the chassis, running gear, engine, electrics etc. are all Ford/Motorcraft. This has annoyed me because, following previous bad experiences with Fords, I vowed never to buy one again, never mind paying over the odds for what is basically a Ford Fiesta with a better badge.

What's it like to drive?

Feels like a bigger car and cruises well once up to speed. Too much wind and tyre noise at motorway speeds, and its not great in cross-winds. 1.4 engine is pretty flat and runs out of steam on even slight inclines - gearing down to 3rd isn't unusual even on the motorway in these situations. Look at reviews of the 1.4 Fiesta (2002-on, NON Zetec) to see similar thoughts about this engine. Gearbox is nice (like most Fords) but clutch is heavy for a small car. Fuel consumption is appalling for a small car. Chassis is excellent and very compliant - it deserves a much better engine and general level of build quality. Desperately needs a foot rest next to the clutch. If other brands can fit this in on narrower small cars, why can't Mazda/Ford do it on the 2?

What's it like to park?

Fairly easy, although steering could be a little lighter at parking speeds.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Mechanically its been fine, but the build quality is typical Ford rather than Mazda quality. The interior looks lovely but bits have already started working loose, and there are far too many rattles from inside door pillars, dashboard etc. I believe from friends and family who have current model Mazdas that this isn't rare for the brand these days.

What's most practical about your car?

Low boot sill and fold-flat seating - thought not as flexible as the Honda Jazz.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Its not that sort of car really...