Exterior & Interior
As is the case with many new Mazda models, the Mazda2 has a big, grinning grille opening. I like it on other Mazdas and I like it even more on the Mazda2, because the car is smaller. It looks like a little baby, grinning away. There are also some subtle, fenderlike bumps on the side that remind me of the Mazda3. Taken as a whole, you can really tell it's a member of the Mazda family.
The inside is very nice, though spare. There are plenty of cupholders, the
gauges are easy to read and the radio is easy to operate, but there's no "wow"
gadget. Heck, the only way to hook your iPod to the stereo is through a
headphone auxiliary jack.
In a way, I think that's good: There's too much going on in modern interiors
that distracts from driving. But I also know I'm in the minority in liking a
simple interior. Either way, I think Mazda deserves a star for not wrapping the
dashboard/center stack area in some cheap, metal-finish plastic. The Mazda2's
design is simple and clean.
See also:
Mazda6 2009 review
Midsize sedans have long been bought for practical reasons, such as the
commute to work or to transport a family, but with the introduction of Mazda's
redesigned Mazda6 for 2009, the Japanese auto ...
Power Steering
Power steering is only operable when the
engine is running. If the engine is off or if
the power steering system is inoperable,
you can still steer, but it requires more
physical effort.
If the s ...
Turn and Lane-Change Signals
Turn Signal
Move the signal lever down (for a left
turn) or up (for a right turn) to the stop
position. The signal will self-cancel after
the turn is completed.
If the indicator light continues ...