The Mazda 2 will be receiving an update this year, giving the long-running hatchback a cosmetic overhaul to keep it looking sharp for new audiences.
The automaker has confirmed that the vehicle will be brought to South Africa in mid-2023, but has yet to announce an official release date.
What to expect
The current-generation Mazda 2 is close to a decade old, as it was first launched in 2014 and only received a facelift in 2019.
The biggest change this time around is an updated front end with a new closed grille similar to the look of many electric cars that have hit the market in recent times.
This new look will only be available on higher specifications, as the lower models will retain the brand’s familiar patterned grille.
Mazda has not revealed the full spec sheet for the South African units, but in other countries, the 2 can now be had with a two-tone exterior with a faux carbon fibre roof, and dual-tone alloy wheels with coloured accents.
There are also two new colour schemes – Aero Grey and Airstream Blue – which brings the paint selection up to 11 different choices.
It’s largely the same story on the inside where the update is mostly cosmetic, aside from the infotainment screen, which has seen a bump in size from seven inches to eight.
The seats and dashboard can also be had with one of several cross-stitch patterns, and Mazda claims that there are as many as 198 unique colour combinations to choose from as a result of both the exterior and interior options.
This is on top of the equipment that is already offered on the existing hatchback, which includes LED headlights, keyless entry and start, manual air conditioning, Bluetooth, a multifunction steering wheel, cloth seats, electric front and rear windows, a USB port, four speakers, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.
Higher-tier variants will then add automatic headlamps, auto-folding side mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, a chrome exhaust, privacy glass on the rear windows, a heads-up display, automatic climate control, cruise control, a leather steering wheel, leather and cloth upholstery, paddle shifters, on-board navigation, a wireless charger, and six speakers.
It’s also likely that the 2 will keep the same engine line-up as before, though it’s worth noting that the Japanese car is now available with mild-hybrid technology in Europe.
In South Africa, the range is exclusively powered by a 1.5-litre, petrol plant that connects to the front wheels and generates 85kW and 148Nm.
There are two gearboxes available – a six-speed manual and automatic – which net a fuel consumption return of 5.7l/100km and 6.0l/100km, respectively.
The Mazda 2 currently retails from R302,300 but we can expect a price bump to accompany the launch of the updated model.
2023 Mazda 2
Keyword: Facelifted Mazda 2 coming to South Africa – What’s new