Island Life Magazine Ltd February/March 2011 | Page 79

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Island Life - February/March 2011

Test driven on the Island
by Peter White

Mazda2 packs style, quality
and is real fun to drive
The new Mazda2 range has been
described as ‘stylish and fun to drive’
and those attributes were very much
in evidence when I took out the 94bhp
1.6-litre diesel version for a test drive
along some of the Island roads and
streets.
Long gone are the days of raised
eyebrows at the suggestion of a diesel
option, which is clearly highlighted with
this sleek and sporty Mazda2. Even
with five doors, it delivers smooth and
brisk acceleration, and the engine is
also flexible enough to cope with the
demands of town driving.
The Mazda2 diesel, which is available
to view or test drive at the Northwood
Mazda Garage, has sharp, grippy
handling and responsive steering. It
is quite a firm ride, but nevertheless
comfortable enough over most surfaces.
It feels as though it likes to be driven, if

only to display its agility.
From inside the cabin there is good
all-round visibility, a high-mounted gear
lever and an uncomplicated dash. There
is nothing more frustrating than sitting
in a car for the first time, and then
having to spend 10 minutes trying to
work out whether you have just turned
on the radio or the air conditioning.
That is not an issue with the Mazda2
which has its easy-to-reach controls and
clearly visible instruments, along with
its chunky rotary heater dials and clearly
labelled stereo buttons. The steering
wheel-mounted remote controls also
allow you to control the audio and
the cruise control without taking your
hands off the wheel.
The steering wheel itself adjusts for
height, there is ample leg room, and
has plenty of space for four adults,
even five at a push. Other extras

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include automatic wipers, electrically
operated rear windows and mirrors, and
climate control.
Increased rigidity and strengthened
reinforcements add to the safety of
the Mazda2, which is stronger but
lighter than its predecessor. Through
the use of lightweight materials and
new technology, it is no heavier than
it needs to be, making it quicker,
more nimble and more fuel efficient,
while producing lower CO2 emissions.
In these days of what appear to be
ever-rising fuel costs, it is reassuring
to know that the Mazda2 Sport diesel
boasts 67.3mpg.
The Mazda2 Sport 1.6 Diesel has
an OTR price of £14,450. For further
details contact Northwood Mazda on
01983-296031.

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