Mazda 2 Hybrid Test: The Joy of Hybridization
The Mazda2 hybrid has been updated in a few places, and with one of the leading hybrid systems on the market, it has gained its rightful place!
The Mazda2 Hybrid, although it bears the same name as the brand's smallest model part, is completely different from it, as it introduced the Japanese automaker to a full hybrid powertrain. Mazda borrowed the familiar design of the Toyota Yaris in the agreement signed in 2015, and the all-new full hybrid super mini is capable of driving with very low consumption while still providing driver satisfaction.
Interesting changes
Mazda's European design studio in Germany is responsible for the design details of the updated Mazda2 Hybrid, which "stimulates" the shape of the already familiar model. The front bumper has been redesigned, with a majestic five-point grille in the foreground and LED headlight clusters emphasizing the sporty look of the vehicle. Viewed from the side, our version's 17-inch multi-spoke black alloy wheels are a reference point, filled with flared arches that further accentuate the sleek lines of the car's design.
There have also been some changes at the rear, with the redesigned bumper and the dashboard located between the rear (LED) lights now in body color instead of black.
The interior has not undergone major upgrades compared to the upcoming model, with the only upgrades involving the infotainment system and the dashboard's screens, which are now 9-inch and 7-inch sizes, respectively. Both have tons of customization options and are very easy to navigate. In addition to this, the materials used are very good (a combination of soft and hard plastics) and the assembly is top-notch. The driving position is low, but fully adjustable (although the backrest adjustment is staggered) and has good visibility in all directions around the vehicle.
Fully equipped
Mazda made sure to offer five perfect versions for the 2 Hybrid. Our model comes with the penultimate version of Homura, which means flame in Japanese, and has the following features:
LED headlights with automatic high beam control, rain sensor, power-folding mirrors, tinted rear window, front and rear parking sensors and reversing camera with automatic braking, tire pressure monitoring system, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry system, blind spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning/lane keeping assist, automatic braking, road sign recognition, automatic dual-zone climate control, automatic dimming of interior mirrors, heated front seats and heated leather steering wheel.
All kinds
Opened under the hood, we found that the familiar ace of technology had not changed – the Toyota Yaris, which was loved by Greek buyers. This tried-and-tested unit consists of a 1,490 cc three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine. 5,500 hp at 92 rpm and between 3,600-4,800 rpm and 120 Nm. (running on an Atkinson cycle) and an 80 hp electric motor, which can also be used as a generator.
They work together to produce 116 horsepower and 169 Nm of torque, which is transmitted to the front axle via a continuously variable transmission, which the company calls the e-CVT. When the throttle is pressed all the way down (and the decibel keeps rising), the Mazda 2 Hybrid will accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 9.7 seconds and continue until the speedometer stabilizes at a top speed of 175 km/h.
The three driving modes (Economy, Normal, Sport) significantly adjust the way the entire system works, which translates into economy and performance. However, we look for something more in terms of the dynamic characteristics of the car, locked in the "Sport", which offers by far the most direct response and more intensively involves the operation of the internal combustion engine.
Regarding perhaps the most important issue - fuel consumption - it is worth mentioning that in the case of continuous work of the air conditioner and frequent scratching of the carpet by the right pedal, the fuel consumption did not exceed 5.1 l/100 km, while the 4.0 had a very smooth ride. - We were impressed by the value of the liter, although we would have liked to be able to drive freely in all-electric mode without being so easy to turn off, even if it is selected by the relevant buttons. The 0.76kWh, 21.5kg lithium-ion battery pack, located under the rear seats, is also self-charging mainly via the model's powerful regenerative braking, especially when the gearbox selects B gear.
The civilized behavior of driving a Mazda2 hybrid, especially the sense of safety provided to the passengers, will please everyone. The suspension setup with MacPherson struts at the front and a modified semi-rigid axle at the rear provides absolute stability for the 1,105kg body, minimizing body roll.
However, the low-profile 205/45 17-inch tires will be reflected in the first pothole. The well-felt steering system provides just the right amount of information, but can be more direct, especially over a few kilometers. Finally, the braking system, consisting of four disc brakes, clearly copes with its task.
conclusion
Our test car is priced at 26,636 euros, which is indeed a considerable amount of money that potential buyers should definitely evaluate, although it offers a complete equipment package, as well as the most complete technical package. We are going to make concessions in terms of equipment for this version, thus significantly reducing costs, and at an entry price close to 20,923 euros, the Mazda2 Hybrid could be the most complete solution for those who wish to enter hybrid mobility.
specification
motor
Three-cylinder
Atmospheric, direct-injection gasoline
Capacity 1,490 cc
Engine power
Maximum power: 92 hp / 5,500 rpm
最大扭矩：120 Nm/3,600-4,800 rpm
Electric motor
Maximum power: 80 hp / 3,995-5,500 rpm
Max torque: 141 Nm / 0-3995 rpm
Comprehensive performance of hybrid powertrain
Maximum power: 116 hp
Maximum torque: 169 Nm
Front-wheel drive
Continuously variable automatic transmission
Top speed: 175 km/h
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h: 9.7 seconds