Getting straight to the point, the Mazda 2 is an aging model, having debuted in 2014 and launched locally in 2015. While it has undergone several updates to stay fresh, its competitors, the Toyota Vios and Honda City, have undergone complete generational changes during this period, not to mention their facelifts in between.

2024 Mazda 2 - Exterior

This latest facelift exercise (the second one after the 2020 facelift) introduces a new grille that incorporates a gloss black honeycomb mesh with a subtle red dash. More prominently, the lower intake adopts an ‘angry face’ appearance. Also new are the redesigned 16-inch alloy wheels with a two-tone black and chrome finish.

Also read: 2024 Mazda 2 facelift launched in Malaysia - CBU Thailand, from RM 108k

Personally, I prefer the 2020 facelift’s nip and tuck, as I still think it looks cleaner whilst staying up to date with the current range of Mazdas. This latest round of updates feels like it’s made for the sake of updating.

2024 Mazda 2 - Interior

Stepping inside, changes inside the Mazda 2 are minimal as it maintains its familiar dashboard layout, ensuring that all controls remain in their ergonomically sound positions.

New additions include an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and passive cruise control, though at this price point, one might expect more advanced features like adaptive cruise control.

The new theme of the interior is red and black, featuring black leatherette and suede seat upholstery with red contrast stitching. But apart from those, the Mazda 2 is by and large the same as before.

Despite being a decade old, I still find the interior to be the most visually appealing. The only area that seems outdated is the infotainment system and its user interface.

I appreciate the way the interior envelops you and above all, the driving position is spot on. The steering wheel aligns perfectly with my body and offers a comfortable angle, with ample telescopic adjustment.

While the plastics used throughout the cabin are hard, they feel robust without being rough or scratchy. However, the drawbacks persist: it lacks spaciousness and practicality compared to its peers. There are no rear door bins, centre armrest nor USB ports for the rear passenger.

2024 Mazda 2 - Driving Experience & Ride Comfort

As for the driving experience, I would still assert that this is the best B-segment sedan/hatchback to drive. The Honda City has evolved over the years into a smoother ride and as a result, the current generation lacks the engaging nature of its predecessors.

The Nissan Almera strikes a commendable balance between comfort and handling, yet the Mazda 2's powertrain surpasses it in terms of driver engagement.

The Toyota Vios, meanwhile, has become more competent in its handling prowess and but in this current generation, the steering is far too muted for my liking. Despite potentially greater grip and surprising cornering speeds, the Vios fails to deliver the same connection to the road and communication as the Mazda 2.

This is the perfect example of having increased grip does not necessarily equate to increased driving pleasure.

What the Mazda 2 does best is delivering a pleasant everyday drive. Cohesiveness is the name of the game here. All controls are beautifully calibrated. The steering offers just the right amount of heft and responsiveness - neither overly sensitive on highways nor cumbersome at lower speeds.

It provides subtle feedback, enhancing awareness of varying road surfaces - a level of tactile connection seldom found in modern cars.

Ride quality is also generally smooth and doesn’t get fussed when the roads get tricky. And as before, the front seats provide moderate side and lumbar support, but the rear seat's short bench lacks sufficient thigh support.

Conclusion

Priced at RM 108,670, the 2024 Mazda 2 may not be the most expensive B-segment sedan or hatchback currently on sale, but its more expensive rival has a more complex hybrid powertrain and is far better equipped.

Is this price tag justified? In my opinion, no. This is primarily due to the Mazda 2's limited airbag count and absence of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

But where the Mazda 2 truly shines, surpassing all its rivals, is in its driving experience. From the way the powertrain responds to your throttle inputs, to the tactile steering, and the sweet driving position, there’s nothing like it in its segment.

So the question is this: To what extent do you prioritise the driving experience it delivers over the space, practicality, and features presented by its competitors? If your preference leans heavily towards driving enjoyment, then this is the B-segment hatch/sedan for you.

Also read: A premium B-segment, these are the latest prices and specs of the new 2024 Mazda 2 facelift in Malaysia