I've driven pretty much everything in the small-car field, and the Mazda2 is one I'd recommend any shopper take for a test drive. Its ride is the best in the category, yet it's still more fun to drive than many. If you're the type who likes something sporty, you'll like the Mazda2. If you want a car that won't beat you up — you'll like the Mazda2.
I'd also recommend the manual transmission, even though I didn't dislike the automatic. I just think the manual is the icing on the cake when it comes to driving enjoyment.