Mazda 2 1.3 TS2 3dr (2008) CAR review

The Mazda 2 was a breath of fresh air when it launched in 2007. Its clever design and careful reduction in mass pointed to a lighter, hence cleaner, and also more entertaining future for the segment. Now that Mazda has launched a three-door ‘2’, does the good news continue?

So, does losing a pair of doors make the ‘2’ even lighter?

Yes, by 10kg on this 1.3 litre TS2 model, taking the kerbweight down to a very commendable 950kg. Think about that: that figure is for a car with a five-star NCAP rating (albeit it’s only the five-door model that’s been tested so far), six airbags, air conditioning, plus a respectable little stereo with MP3 compatibility and an aux socket as standard. There are superminis that weigh easily 200kg more than that. Bravo Mazda.

You’d expect the three-door to be sportier in looks than the five-door – business as usual here?

Correct again: the three-door is more rakish in profile, with a steeply rising beltline and narrow rear side glass. Very zoom-zoom. Naturally the doors are now longer, providing access to an intimate feeling, but far from cramped cabin; that’s one of the real surprises with this car. There is in fact plenty of room, even on the rear bench and in the reasonable boot.

The only negative is the perceived quality of some of the plastics - it’s all a bit too shiny and brittle to the touch, unlike a Corsa. Nevertheless, if like me, you’re over six foot in height, you’ll really appreciate how you sit down ‘in’ the car, rather than ‘on’ it: it’s a fine, sporty driving position, despite the lack of reach adjustment on the ‘wheel.

Talking of the ‘wheel, the TS2 kit on this car includes a leather ‘wheel and stubby, high-mounted gearlever that look as if they’ve been nicked off an MX-5. That’s an encouraging sign…

Click 'Next' below to read our driving impressions of the Mazda 2 three-door