The Mazda 2 II (DE, facelift 2010) 1.5i with the automatic transmission represents a significant iteration within the second generation of Mazda’s subcompact hatchback. Produced from 2010 to 2014, this variant was primarily aimed at the European and Asian markets, offering a blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and ease of use. It occupied a mid-range position in the 2nd generation Mazda2 lineup, slotting below the more performance-oriented manual transmission versions and above the base-level trims. This model was designed to appeal to drivers seeking a practical and economical city car with the convenience of an automatic gearbox.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | 2 |
| Generation | 2 II (DE, facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5i (102 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 146 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 133 Nm @ 4000 rpm (98.1 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.4 mm (3.09 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.9 l (4.12 US qt | 3.43 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 990 kg (2182.58 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1495 kg (3295.91 lbs.) |
| Max load | 505 kg (1113.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 250 l (8.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 787 l (27.79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 900 kg (1984.16 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Length | 3920 mm (154.33 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1958 mm (77.09 in.) |
| Height | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2490 mm (98.03 in.) |
| Front track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.8 m (32.15 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 2010-2014 Mazda 2 1.5i Automatic lies the Mazda ZY-VE engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, often referred to by its internal codes, utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The 10:1 compression ratio contributes to a balance between efficiency and performance. The engine produces 102 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 133 Nm (98.1 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and convenient operation. This transmission, while not offering the most advanced gear ratios, was chosen for its reliability and cost-effectiveness. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5i Automatic variant of the Mazda 2 offers a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. The four-speed automatic transmission prioritizes smooth shifts over rapid acceleration. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 11.3 seconds, and the top speed is around 105.63 mph. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic suffers a slight performance penalty due to the transmission’s inherent efficiency losses. However, the automatic provides a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in urban environments. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy and everyday usability, rather than outright performance. Power delivery is linear, but the engine can feel strained when pushed hard, especially when fully loaded.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5i Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system with CD player. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and front airbags. Higher trim levels, available as optional upgrades, could add features like alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a multi-function steering wheel. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a relatively simple dashboard layout. The overall interior design focused on practicality and durability rather than luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Mazda 2 II utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums. This configuration was chosen to balance cost and performance for this weight class. The electric power steering provides light and easy steering, making it ideal for city driving. The chassis is relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s nimble handling. Stabilizer bars are present, but are relatively thin compared to those found on higher-performance trims.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mazda 2 1.5i Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and economical city car. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and ease of use. However, some critics noted the engine’s lack of power and the transmission’s somewhat dated technology. Compared to other trims in the Mazda 2 lineup, such as the manual transmission versions or those with larger engines, the 1.5i Automatic offered less performance but greater convenience. Its fuel economy of around 37.3 US mpg combined was competitive with other subcompact hatchbacks in its class. Reliability was generally good, with few reported issues with the engine or transmission.
Legacy
The Mazda 2 II 1.5i Automatic has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The ZY-VE engine is known for its longevity, and the four-speed automatic transmission, while not the most sophisticated, is generally robust. These cars are often sought after by first-time buyers or those looking for an affordable and economical runabout. While not a performance icon, the 1.5i Automatic represents a solid and dependable choice for those prioritizing practicality and fuel efficiency.
