There once was this notion that small cars, such as subcompacts, are supposed to be bare-bones, no-frills models that are simply used to get from Point A to B. And unless you’ve been hibernating under your favorite rock for the past few years, you’d know that this isn’t the case anymore. Today’s subcompact is are packed with tech and even a bit of driving fun.
This is especially true for Mazda, with its Mazda2 sedan and hatchback. First seen in 2015, Bermaz Auto Philippines, official Mazda distributor in the country, refreshes the little Mazda2 for 2017 and gives it a host of tech, safety, and aesthetic upgrades that make life on the road safer and a lot more fun.
The 2017 Mazda2 now comes with the brand’s vaunted G-Vectoring Control, taken from the SKYACTIV Vehicle Dynamics suite of technologies. This innovative piece of kit essentially makes steering more precise, a lot smoother and more natural, and provides more stable and controlled yet still nimble ride and handling. This is combined with a tweaked suspension setup for sharper handling and a more comfortable ride on the daily commute.
Apart from GVC, the entire Mazda2 range, from the S variants all the way to the soon-to-be-released Premium Series, will likewise get better sound insulation in strategic areas throughout the car. These include the front windshield, engine compartment, and the trunk and rear hatch. This essentially helps improve Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) for a more relaxing journey.
The mid-range V variant, meanwhile, is now fitted with LED foglamps with chrome bezels, side mirror-mounted cornering lamps, and silver-colored wheels for a more stylish vibe. The cabin gets newly-designed fabric seat material, a new steering wheel akin to the one found on the new CX-5 and CX-9, and cool carbon fiber trims for a more upscale touch.
The higher-end R and Premium Series models, on the other hand, now sport gunmetal grey accents on their 16-inch alloy wheels, while the leather upholstery has been upgraded to provide a truly premium atmosphere. Speaking of upgrades, safety has been given a boost with six airbags fitted as standard. The cool toys like Auto On/Off LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and Active Driver Display (or Heads-up display) are still part of the R and Premium package.
And yes, the cutting-edge Mazda Connect is still there to make life safer while keeping drivers connected to the outside world. Al this is backed by YOJIN3—the industry-frist worry-free ownership and aftersales package that lets owners enjoy their Mazda stress-free for the first three years.
The 2017 Mazda2 is now available at all Mazda dealerships nationwide. The aforementioned Premium Series variants will follow later this year.
