Should you buy a Mazda 2 Hybrid?

The Mazda 2 Hybrid is a somewhat likeable small hatchback fitted with clever-clogs fuel-saving tech and we approve of it for that. Yes, it’s almost indistinguishable from its Toyota Yaris brethren, but we’d wager most buyers won’t care a fig. If you’re going to buddy up with anyone, we’d argue that sensible Toyota – the original hybrid pioneer and a company with a stellar reputation for reliability and engineering prowess – is about as good as a partner gets.

In an age of rising costs, the Mazda’s unwavering focus on fuel-saving is beneficial. Driven gently, the 2 Hybrid will average between 60-70mpg, making it one of the most frugal cars around and its ease of use is another boon. 

Not everyone is ready for a fully electric car and that’s where the Mazda 2 Hybrid comes in. It combines the best of both worlds in an eminently sensible package; what it lacks in flair and outright appeal, it more than makes up for with pragmatism. But therein lies it’s problem, there are small cars that are sensible but add in a dash of flair – like the Renault Clio E-Tech, Suzuki Swift and Citroen C3. Next to them, the 2 Hybrid is a bit of a stick-in-the-mud.

What we like

It is a ruthlessly efficient car, no amount of lead-foot driving will unsettle the economy. Everything is properly screwed together and feels built-to-last too. Interior space is decent for its size too, including the rear seats.

What we don’t like

The Toyota Yaris does exactly the same job as the Mazda, but costs less money and has a 10-year warranty, a lot longer than the three years offered on the 2 Hybrid. It’s not the last name in driving dynamics and boot size is average for this class.