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2011 Mazda 2 - First Drive Review

Mazda’s fun new subcompact is simple and affordable.

BY STEVE SILER

With lofty government-mandated fuel-economy standards coming down on one hand and a shaky economy spurring consumer interest on the other, carmakers are serving up more subcompact cars to U.S. consumers than ever. Among the most hotly anticipated (at least among Car and Driver staffers) is the 2011 Mazda 2, Mazda’s first America-bound B-segment vehicle since the 323 and arguably the best such car Mazda has ever built.

Although Mazda is calling the 2011 model the “third generation” of the 2, it’s more or less a refresh of the second-gen car sold around the globe since 2008. Aside from redesigned front and rear fascias and sundry new interior bits, it’s essentially the same car as before, one that shares its architecture with Ford’s slick new Fiesta—which, incidentally, also arrives stateside for 2011.

Of the two platformmates, the2is the simpler machine: lighter, less powerful, and available only as a five-door hatchback in Sport and Touring trim levels. Its Eurocentric cabin assigns ergonomic priority to front-seat occupants while giving rear-seaters (and cargo) the somewhat shorter end of the stick. The interior design is pleasing, but the features list is surprisingly short. Unavailable, for example, even on Touring models, are a telescoping steering wheel, a sunroof, integrated navigation (a portable Garmin system will be available from dealers), a USB port, and a hands-free Bluetooth system. The only option beyond dealer accessories is special paint.

But the 2 is a hoot to drive. The 1.5-liter four-cylinder’s 100 hp and 98 lb-ft of torque won’t exactly burn your hair off, but this engine revs freely and sounds good as it springs the 2’s feathery 2300-pound curb weight (2350 with the automatic) into motion. Better yet, the electric power steering and the chassis offer surprising feel and quick, linear responses to driver inputs. Ditto the front-disc, rear-drum brakes. Meanwhile, fuel economy is good if not worldbeating, at 29 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway for the five-speed manual and 27/33 for the four-speed automatic.

The 2 hits dealerships this August, priced from $14,730 for the manual-equipped Sport to $16,985 for an automatic Touring model. It offers a lot of driving goodness for the money.

American Cancer Society Raffle Winner!!!

MileOne is a proud flagship sponsor for the American Cancer Society in Maryland.  The company actively participates in fundraising efforts as well as doing their part in promoting any new initiatives for the ACS. MileOne collectively supports raising awareness for the ongoing fight to cure cancer.  

Throughout the spring and summer this year, a Honda Insight donated from Heritage Honda in Parkville, MD was wrapped and on display at many of the area’s Relay For Life events.  Relay For Life events are events for people of all ages come out to bring the community together and reminisce about their loved ones who have died of cancer and honor those who have survived while raising money to fight for a cure.  The Insight was being raffled off in order to raise money for the ACS.  This year we sold over 17 thousand raffle tickets and raised more than $86 thousand dollars for the American Cancer Society!

On June18th, at an event in Woodbine, MD the lucky winner was drawn.  Ethel Corrine Honemond was the 2010 lucky raffle winner! Later, on July 3rd, Ethel and her daughter met with members of MileOne and the American Cancer society for a check presentation ceremony.  Ethel had elected the cash value instead of the Honda Insight. MileOne President & Chief Operating Officer Jerry Fader and State Vice President (S. Atlantic Div) for the ACS, Gloria Jetter presented the check to Ethel and her daughter.  Ethel and her family are strong supporters and avid fundraisers for the ACS.  Cancer has affected their family and they strongly support the American Cancer Society.

Each year, MileOne will continue to do their part in supporting the American Cancer Society.  From donating a vehicle, to raising funds at the dealerships for Making Strides and other ACS events, the company is happy to support such an important cause. 

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