Mazda quietly launched the facelifted Mazda2 in South Africa in 2023 and it’s offered with a choice of front-end designs. Here’s what you’ll pay for this refreshed B-segment hatch…
Mazda South Africa welcomed the refreshed Mazda2 hatchback in South Africa in 2023, sporting a choice of new front-end designs and a slightly truncated line-up.
How old is the Mazda2?
Of course, this 3rd-generation Mazda2 is one of the oldest contenders in the local B-segment hatchback game, having been revealed as long ago as 2014 (and launching in South Africa early the following year). For the record, the DJ-generation Mazda2 received what we thought would be a mid-cycle refresh in 2019, effectively making this its 2nd facelift.
What engine is offered for the Mazda 2?
The updated Mazda2 is mechanically unchanged, which means all models are still powered by a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine, which delivers an unchanged 85 kW and 148 Nm to the front axle via either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a torque-converter automatic transmission with the same number of cogs.
What trim lines are offered for the Mazda2?
However, the range has been trimmed slightly, since the previous flagship derivative – badged as the Hazumi – has seemingly fallen away, along with the manual version of the Individual grade. That means the local line-up now comprises 4 variants, starting with the 1.5 Active, which is offered exclusively in 3-pedal form and kicks off at R321 500.
Next up is the mid-tier Dynamic grade, which comes in from R351 200 in manual guise and R371 300 in self-shifting form. Finally, the Individual trim level will cost you from R417 300 and now comes exclusively with an auto cog-swapper.
So, what about those new front-end designs? Well, the base Active model ships standard with what appears to be a flat black grille panel, while the Dynamic features a distinctive body-coloured version (along with subtle yellow detailing). The flagship Individual, meanwhile, comes with a more conventional honeycomb-effect black grille, complete with red detailing. New exterior paint colours include Airstream Blue and Aero Grey.
What features are offered for the Mazda 2?
The Active’s standard-features list includes items such as LED headlamps, 15-inch steel wheels (with plastic covers), keyless entry, push-button ignition, electric windows, a 4-speaker sound system (with Bluetooth), manual air conditioning, black cloth upholstery, dual front airbags and ABS (with EBD and EBA).
Meanwhile, the Dynamic specification adds 15-inch silver-coloured alloy wheels, a 7-inch infotainment display (featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, run through a console-mounted dial and linked to 6 speakers), cruise control, an electro-chromatic rear-view mirror, power-folding side mirrors, extra airbags (side and curtain), stability control and leather trim for the steering wheel, gearknob and handbrake lever.
Finally, the Individual trim level boasts items such as 16-inch 2-tone alloys, smart keyless entry, automatic headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, automatic air conditioning, rear parking sensors, a reverse-view camera, wireless charging, a head-up display, leather-and-cloth upholstery, black side-mirror caps, a black roof decal, privacy glass and paddles for its automatic transmission.
How much does the updated Mazda 2 cost in South Africa?
| Model | Price |
| Mazda2 1.5 Active 6MT | R321 500 |
| Mazda2 1.5 Dynamic 6MT | R351 200 |
| Mazda2 1.5 Dynamic 6AT | R371 300 |
| Mazda2 1.5 Individual 6AT | R417 300 |
The prices above include a 5-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 3-year/unlimited km service plan.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mazda2 still sold new in South Africa?
Yes, the Mazda2 is still sold new in South Africa. The facelifted model was launched locally in 2023 with an updated design and a streamlined model lineup.
What engine is in the South African Mazda2?
All models of the Mazda2 in South Africa are powered by a 1.5-litre, naturally aspirated petrol engine that delivers 85 kW and 148 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
What is the safety rating of the Mazda2?
The Mazda2 has a 4-star Global NCAP safety rating for adult occupant protection and a 3-star rating for child occupant protection. The car comes with standard safety features like driver and passenger airbags, ABS with EBD, and stability control.
What are the main competitors of the Mazda2 in South Africa?
The Mazda2 competes in the B-segment hatchback market against rivals such as the Volkswagen Polo, Toyota Yaris, and Suzuki Swift. It is often praised for its upmarket feel and stylish design.
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