Vehicle Overview

Launched internationally in 2007, the subcompact Mazda2 arrives stateside for 2011 as Mazda's entry-level offering. It's only available as a hatchback and is slotted below the Mazda3. However, the Mazda2 has more standard features than its larger sibling. The Honda Fit looks to be a major Mazda2 competitor, as do a host of other small cars, from the Ford Fiesta and Chevy Aveo to the Nissan Versa and Toyota Yaris. The Mazda2 comes in Sport and Touring trim levels. Both employ a 100-horsepower, 1.5-liter four-cylinder. Manual and automatic transmissions are available.

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    Exterior
    How could Mazda not get attention with a sedan this good-looking? My Sangria Red test car didn't necessarily draw stares, but it stood out when parked in my driveway on a suburban street. It looke ...

    Hood
    WARNING: Always check that the hood is closed and securely locked: A hood that is not closed and securely locked is dangerous as it could fly open while the vehicle is moving and block the drive ...

    Immobilizer System (without Advanced Key)
    The immobilizer system allows the engine to start only with a key the system recognizes. If someone attempts to start the engine with an unrecognized key, the engine will not start, thereby helpi ...