Coming as a big surprise to wrap up 2019, Bermaz Auto Philippines, the official distributor of Mazda vehicles in the country, has finally brought in the refreshed subcompact Mazda2. It features the Evolved KODO styling along with a slew of enhancements for improved comfort and handling.

Despite its positioning as Mazda’s most affordable offering, the 2020 Mazda2 doesn’t scrimp on design or craftsmanship. In fact, just as the Mazda3 and Mazda6 has done in the compact and executive car segments, the refreshed Mazda2 brings a heightened sense of premium, typically absent in the sub-compact car category.



Outside, the refreshed Mazda2 gains a front clip reminiscent of its larger Mazda6 sibling. This Evolved KODO design brings the new trademark elements—the simplified LED lighting elements, large wing grille, and re-sculpted bumpers to the smallest member of the Mazda family. A new design for its standard 16-inch wheel complete the changes.

Inside, the 2020 Mazda2 brings more premium features such as new, more supportive seats derived from the brand’s Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture technology. With that, it promotes an S-shaped spine that helps resist unnecessary head movement enhancing a driver’s sense of stability. The 7-inch Mazda Connect system also gains standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity as well.



Under the hood remains the 1.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine. With the same improvements found in in the Mazda3, it gains a bit more power and torque—110 horsepower (up 2 horsepower) at 6,000 rpm and 141 Nm of torque (up 2 Nm) at 4,000 rpm. The sole transmission for 2020 is a 6-speed automatic with Sports Mode and paddle shifters.

But while its powertrain is relatively unchanged, the Mazda2 features a re-tuned suspension for a smoother, more comfortable riding feel. It also adds several noise-fighting measures to realize a quieter cabin. It also gains G-Vectoring Control Plus. Part of Mazda’s Skyactiv-Vehicle Dynamics package, it builds on the original merits of GVC which uses engine torque to control a car’s swaying and pitching by lightly applying a brake force to the outer wheels for greater stability. This enables the car to better handle emergency avoidance maneuvers and offers more confidence-inspiring controllability in various situations, including high-speed lane changes and driving on slippery roads.



Fans of Mazda’s subcompact offering though will be surprised to know that for 2020, Bermaz Auto Philippines is bringing in a lone variant dubbed the Mazda2 1.5 Elite. For readers with sharp memories, this naming convention echoes the Mazda3’s. Available still in both sedan and hatchback flavors, it carries a P 995,000 price tag.

Sales of the 2020 Mazda2 1.5 Elite start next week.