Used Mazda Mazda2 for sale near Ilford

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.0%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.4 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 800
Average Price: Around £13,500

Mazda2 (2015-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Improved safety after 2020 refresh	Boot is on the small side
Low running costs	Non-turbocharged engines can feel flat
Fun to drive	No EV model offered

Quick Summary

The Mazda2 (2015-present) is a stylish and often-overlooked supermini that offers a compelling alternative to mainstream rivals like the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa. Its distinctive design and sporty lines give it a premium look, while the interior quality is a step above more budget-focused offerings. While interior space is reasonable for passengers, its 280-litre boot is smaller than what you'll find in the latest generation of competitors, which is a key consideration for those needing maximum practicality.

Where the Mazda2 excels is on the road. It's fun to drive, with accurate steering and a fantastically snappy manual gearbox that encourages enthusiastic driving. The non-turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engines are exceptionally economical but need to be worked hard to access their performance, which can feel less responsive than the turbocharged units in rivals. Running costs are low, and generous equipment levels—especially on post-2020 facelift models with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—make it a great all-round package.

Best for: Drivers who value an engaging driving experience, low running costs, and distinctive styling in a well-equipped package.

Not ideal for: Buyers who need the largest boot in the class or those who prefer the effortless low-rev pulling power of a turbocharged engine.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Mazda2 if: You want a stylish, economical, and fun-to-drive supermini and are happy to trade a little boot space for a more engaging experience.

Consider alternatives if: Maximum boot capacity is your top priority, or you prefer the easy, low-rev performance of a turbocharged engine for daily driving.

Competitive Position: The Mazda2 is a highly credible contender that is unfairly overlooked in the crowded supermini class. It holds its own against the Ford Fiesta for driving fun and rivals the Volkswagen Polo for perceived quality and style. While it can’t match the practicality of the class leaders, its blend of low running costs, generous equipment, and driver appeal makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a characterful and reliable small car.

Read our full Mazda2 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from May 2024, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.