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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    Floor Mat
    WARNING: Make sure the floor mats are hooked on the retention pins to prevent them from bunching up under the foot pedals: Using a floor mat that is not secured is dangerous as it will interfere ...

    Interior
    The second row's backrest can recline or fold flat, and the seat can slide fore and aft to optimize legroom and cargo space. There's room for two in the 50/50-split third-row seat, which also can ...

    Body Lubrication
    All moving points of the body, such as door and hood hinges and locks, should be lubricated each time the engine oil is changed. Use a nonfreezing lubricant on locks during cold weather. Make sur ...