The Mazda is a good car that has spent most of its life being a shadow of the VW Polo and Suzuki Swift, but it does remain a solid alternative in the B light hatchback segment. To cement that fact, Mazda has given their best-selling passenger vehicle a mild update to the lineup, especially to the entry-level models for the new year, which sees the Mazda 2 gain some exterior upgrades, enhancements to the safety features, and some updates within the cabin.

"Mazda Southern Africa has introduced the latest update to its long-standing Mazda2 range in South Africa, bringing fresh styling cues, added technology, and even stronger value to the brand’s B light hatchback segment offering. Building on the nameplate’s established appeal, the 2026 Mazda 2 enhances the everyday driving experience with thoughtful feature upgrades across the line-up."

The key highlights done to the car can be seen from the new 2-tone steel wheels, yellow front and rear grille accents on the exterior whilst the interior gains a coloured interior panel finish, and some features that were previously associated with higher derivatives are now available from the entry edition, including a 7-inch display with MZD Connect, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. 

The 2026 Mazda2 is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.5L petrol engine, producing 85kW at 6,000 rpm and 148Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Customers have the option of a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The range is comprised of three derivatives: 

• Mazda2 1.5 Active MT (Starting at at R336 000): The entry point to the range now offers enhanced infotainment, connectivity, together with 15-inch 2-tone steel wheels, yellowfront and rear grille accents, a coloured interior panel, and power fold mirrors. 
• Mazda2 1.5 Dynamic AT ( Starting at R371 300):Builds on the Active edition with 15-inch Silver Metallic alloy wheels, a 6-speed automatic transmission, an airbag suite including side and curtain airbags and leather-wrapped steering elements. It also carries forward features such as cruise control, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and a shark fin antenna.
• Mazda21.5 Individual AT (Starting at R417 300): At the top of the Mazda2 range, this derivative adds smart keyless entry, automatic climate control, a reverse camera, rear parking sensors, auto paddle transmission switches, auto-fold mirrors, wireless charging (Qi), a Head-Up display (HUD), 16-inch machined alloy wheels, and a black-and-red interior treatment. 

Safety and convinence is now also mandatory for every model in the range as Mazda has ensured that the following features are standard across all models : BS with EBD and EBA, ISOFIX child-seat anchors, dual front airbags, LED headlamps, push start ignition, power windows (front & rear), adjustable steering and electronic stability control.  

All Mazda2 models come with a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty, a 3-year service plan, and 5 years of roadside assistance. The updated Mazda2 is available from Mazda dealerships across South Africa.