The successful and long-running Mazda 121 series was renamed as the Mazda 2 from 2002 onwards, although the Japanese market still kept the name Demio
Combining the design of the boxy Metro hatchback and the popularity of the DB series Mazda 121 “bubble” (aptly named due to its rounded styling), the Mazda 2 was born with a more exciting look. The scheme seemed to have worked as the Mazda 2 instantly became very popular and continued with Mazda 121's reputation for reliability and durability but now in an exciting body style.
Mazda 2 (DY Series), 2002-2007
The Mazda 2 DY series was still a front-engine, front-wheel, 5-door hatchback similar to its predecessor's layout. Mazda marketed this series internationally in numerous trim levels, namely, MZi, MZ-CDS, TS, Antares, Capella, Sakata, TS2 and Sport.
In Australia, Mazda offered it as the Genki, Maxx, and Neo. Standard features for all models included dual front airbags, air conditioning, power windows, power steering, 15-inch alloy wheels, and a host of other modern car features. For the Genki and Neo models, additional features included were anti-lock braking system, body kit, electronic brake force distribution, and front fog lights.
The DY Series offered a comfortable ride and was more suited to city driving but could hold its own in long-distance trips. The car was roomy with an option to fold down the 60/40 split rear seat to accommodate more cargo. Excellent and stable handling gave the driver a feel of the road, and the ABS gave confidence in its stopping power.
A Mazda ZY-VE 1498 cc inline 4-cylinder petrol engine powered all Australian variants with options of either 4-speed auto transmission or 5-speed manual gearbox. It produced 82 kW of power and maximum torque of 141 N⋅m, with a claimed fuel consumption of 6.4L/100km.
In other parts of the world, the DY series packed either a petrol or diesel engine. The 1.25L Zetec-SE (Mazda ZJ-VE) multi-point injected DOHC was capable of 55 kW of power and 110 N⋅m of torque. The 1.4L Ford Duratec Sigma (MZI-C4) series produced 59 kW and 124 N⋅m of torque. Another option was the 1.6L Ford Duratec Sigma series (MZI C6) rated at 73 kW and 146 N⋅m. The diesel version used the 1.4L Ford DLD-414 Duratorq (MZI-CDTi), which produced 50 kW and 160 N⋅m of torque.
Mazda 2 (DE Series), 2007-2014
In 2007, the DE series, which used lightweight materials, replaced the DY series. The overall dimensions of the car now became smaller than the previous offering but managed to retain excellent handling and interior space by moving the wheels farther. Interior comfort was improved and was also now more insulated from outside noise.
It had a refreshed body style with improved aerodynamics and more pronounced front and rear rake. Mazda 2 now comes as 3- or 5-door hatches and 4-door sedans, with the latter broadening its customer base no doubt. It incorporated and refined features from the previous version, with the new ESP electronic stability control becoming standard in Australia but optional in other countries.
The Australian market still received the Genki, Maxx, and Neo models, retaining the 1.5L ZY-VE engine but was now downrated to 76 kW of power and 137 N⋅m of torque. Fuel consumption was still a very economical 6.8L/100km.
Elsewhere, there were six petrol and two diesel engine options. Petrol options were the 1.3L ZJ-VEM (66 kW/ 120 N⋅m), 1.3L Low Power ZJ-VE MZR (55 kW/ 121 N⋅m), 1.3L ZJ-VE (64 kW/ 124 N⋅m), 1.3L ZJ-VE MZR (63 kW/ 122 N⋅m), 1.5L ZY-VE (76 kW/ 140 N⋅m) and 1.5L ZY-VE MZR(75 kW/ 137 N⋅m). Transmissions available were 4-speed automatic or the 5-speed manual gearbox. A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) was also available in Japan and Hong Kong.
Diesel options were the 1.4L MZ-CD (50 kW/ 118 N⋅m) and the 1.6L MZ-CD (66 kW/ 212 N⋅m) coupled with either a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual gearbox.
In 2011 in Japan, Mazda introduced the first SkyActiv model, the Demio (Mazda 2), using Mazda's technology development that increased the power output and fuel efficiency in their engines. The 13-SkyActiv had an output rating of 62 kW and 113 N⋅m and came with intelligent-Drive Master (i-DM), CVT transmission and dynamic stability control with brake assist.
Mazda 2 (DJ Series), 2014-Present
The current generation of the Mazda 2 released in 2014 is recognizably different from their previous offering with the new front face and side door panels and closely resembling the Mazda 3. Its exterior sported a more modern look, while the interior wore better trims and featured a well-thought-out ergonomic package. A Colour Pack also became an option, offering an all-black interior. The Mazda 2 now had a more aggressive look rather than just being one of the many economy cars available.
Now offered in Australia are the Mazda 2 Genki, GT, Maxx and Neo models. There are two petrol options, both based on the same 1.5L SkyActiv-G F-P5 inline petrol engine. Neo packs a lower compression model with a power of 79 kW and 139 N⋅m of torque, while the Maxx and Genki come with the higher compression version that has an output of 81 kW and 141 N⋅m. Although not much on paper, actual tests report that the high-compression engines deliver better power on startup. These engines come with either a 6-speed SkyActiv-MT manual gearbox or a 6-speed SkyActiv-Drive automatic with sports mode.
Other international markets, models were available with the 1.3L petrol SkyActiv-G P3-VPS (68 kW / 123 N⋅m), petrol 1.5L SkyActiv-G P5-VPS (81 kW / 141 N⋅m) and the diesel 1.5L SkyActiv-D S5-DPTS (77 kW / 250 N⋅m) coupled with 5-speed/6-speed SkyActiv-MT manual gearbox or 6-speed SkyActiv-Drive automatic with sports mode.
The current version is now available with upgraded electronic and safety features that are typically offered only in higher class vehicles. Its safety suite includes Dynamic Stability Control, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution, Emergency Brake Assist, and front side and curtain airbags (driver and passenger).
Still a Contender
The Mazda 2 series was already a competent subcompact car when it was first released. It has evolved into the modern concept of providing comfort, drivability, and power to economy cars. Although it cannot boast of the best fuel economy numbers in its class, its design and premium trims make it a popular choice among buyers.
With fuel prices, parking availability and road traffic as they are now, these cars should be on your list when looking for good used cars to purchase. Mazda has been reputed to build tough cars and if you own one of these variants, visit us at Carpart.com.au for your auto parts needs in maintaining them. As the premier website in Australia, we can provide you with the parts you need for domestic and import cars. We can also help you locate used Mazda 2 or other models. If you own one and decide to sell it for parts or as a whole, browse our website or contact us at hello@carpart.com.au, and we’d connect you to interested buyers or sellers.
-Jarad