{"id":10064,"date":"2026-01-14T15:16:09","date_gmt":"2026-01-14T07:16:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/blog\/?p=10064"},"modified":"2026-01-14T15:17:55","modified_gmt":"2026-01-14T07:17:55","slug":"mazda-2-malaysia-review-2015-2024-pre-facelift-vs-facelift","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/blog\/mazda-2-malaysia-review-2015-2024-pre-facelift-vs-facelift\/","title":{"rendered":"Mazda 2 Malaysia review (2015\u20132024): Pre-facelift vs facelift. What really changed?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Mazda 2 &#8211; both the hatchback and sedan &#8211; has always attracted buyers who want a small car that feels premium. From its launch in 2015, the G-Vectoring Control (GVC) update in 2017, and the facelift in 2020, the Mazda 2 evolved quietly but consistently.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That said, do note that as of 2024, the sale of <a href=\"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/en\/buy\/mazda\/2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mazda 2<\/a> models was discontinued here in Malaysia, so only used models are available now. If you are considering one today, here is a clear breakdown of what changed, what stayed the same, and which version makes the most sense to buy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here is a quick guide to buying a used Mazda 2 in Malaysia.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Introduction to the Mazda 2 in Malaysia<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Mazda 2 entered the Malaysian market in 2015 as both a fully imported B-segment hatchback and sedan. It was positioned as a sporty and premium alternative to mass-market rivals like the Myvi, Jazz and Vios. Unlike most competitors that focused on value and space, Mazda focused on handling, build quality, and driving feel.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Across all years, the formula remained consistent. One engine, one gearbox, and a strong emphasis on chassis balance and driver engagement.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Pre-facelift Mazda 2 (2015\u20132016)<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/carro.co\/_next\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.carro.co%2Ftr%3Aar-16-9%2Cw-2133%2Cpr-true%2Cf-webp%2Cq-50%2F2025%2F09%2FInventory%2F248874672%2F2016-mazda-2-skyactiv-sdn-1.5-at-LP637J26P7-mytukar-009.jpeg&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" alt=\"Car Media Image\" \/><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/en\/cars\/mazda\/2\/2016-mazda-2-skyactiv-sdn-1-5-at\/LP637J26P7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2016 MAZDA 2 SKYACTIV SDN 1.5<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> going for<\/span><\/i><b><i> RM39,400<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> only at Carro Malaysia<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The first Mazda 2 models in Malaysia already looked sharp from day one. The Kodo design language gave it a low, wide stance with aggressive headlamps and a sporty profile. Even today, the early model still looks modern.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Under the bonnet, every Mazda 2 uses the same 1.5L SkyActiv-G naturally aspirated petrol engine paired to a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission. Output is 114 hp and 149 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This engine is not about outright speed. Instead, it delivers a smooth response, good low-speed torque, and linear acceleration that suits city driving well. The gearbox is also one of the smoothest in its class.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Safety equipment on the early models includes:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Two front airbags<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ABS, EBD, and brake assist<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dynamic Stability Control<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Traction control<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hill launch assist<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ISOFIX mounts<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LED headlamps were still optional at this stage, and most cars came with halogen units.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Inside, the Mazda 2 already felt more premium than most rivals. The driving position is low and sporty, materials feel solid, and the dashboard layout is clean and focused on the driver.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>2017 update: Introduction of G-Vectoring Control (GVC)<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/carro.co\/_next\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.carro.co%2Ftr%3Aar-16-9%2Cw-1422%2Cpr-true%2Cf-webp%2Cq-50%2F2025%2F11%2FInventory%2F261107781%2F2017-mazda-2-skyactiv-high-hb-1.5-at-74XDV3R89V-mytukar-022.jpeg&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" alt=\"Car Media Image\" \/><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A<\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/en\/cars\/mazda\/2\/2017-mazda-2-skyactiv-high-hb-1-5-at\/74XDV3R89V\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> 2017 MAZDA 2 SKYACTIV HIGH HB 1.5<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> going for <\/span><\/i><b><i>RM42,800<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> only at Carro Malaysia<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In 2017, Mazda introduced G-Vectoring Control to the Mazda 2 in Malaysia. This was a handling-focused update with no visual or mechanical changes to the engine or gearbox.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GVC works by slightly reducing engine torque when you turn the steering wheel. This shifts weight to the front tyres and improves grip. The result is smoother corner entry, better steering feel, and improved stability during lane changes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For everyday driving, GVC makes the car feel more composed and confident, especially on winding roads and at highway speeds.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A new exterior colour, Deep Crimson Mica, was also added to the range. Other than that, equipment levels remained largely unchanged.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>2020 facelift: Subtle design updates and GVC Plus<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/carro.co\/_next\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.carro.co%2Ftr%3Aar-16-9%2Cw-1422%2Cpr-true%2Cf-webp%2Cq-50%2F2024%2F10%2FInventory%2F169301080%2F2022-mazda-2-sedan-high-skyactiv-1.5l-N95ELJZRPO-mytukar-016.jpeg&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" alt=\"Car Media Image\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/en\/cars\/mazda\/2\/2022-mazda-2-sedan-high-skyactiv-1-5l\/N95ELJZRPO\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2022 MAZDA 2 SEDAN HIGH SKYACTIV 1.5L<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> going for RM73,800 only at Carro Malaysia.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Mazda 2 received its facelift in 2020. Visually, the changes were subtle but noticeable on close inspection:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Thicker chrome grille surround<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">New mesh grille design similar to the Mazda 6<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reshaped headlamps<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slimmer lower air intake with chrome accents<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The overall look became more refined and slightly more mature, while still retaining its sporty character.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mechanically, the engine and gearbox remained exactly the same. You still get the 1.5L SkyActiv-G engine with 114 hp and 149 Nm, paired with a 6-speed automatic with i-Stop idling technology.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The biggest upgrade came from G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus). This system improves on the original GVC by adding brake-based torque vectoring. It not only adjusts engine torque, but also gently applies braking force when exiting corners. This improves body control, stability, and overall smoothness.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Despite the facelift, the safety equipment remained unchanged. You still only get two airbags and no advanced driver assistance systems, which is a weak point against newer rivals.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Driving experience across all years<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No matter which year you choose, the Mazda 2 delivers one of the best driving experiences in the B-segment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The steering is light in town but sharp and accurate on highways. The suspension is firm enough to feel stable without being uncomfortable. The car feels planted during cornering and remains composed at speed.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The engine is responsive at low and mid speeds and pairs well with the smooth gearbox. It is ideal for daily commuting and occasional highway trips.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Noise insulation is also better than average for this class. At cruising speeds, the car feels calm and refined.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Interior quality and space<\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/carro.co\/_next\/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.carro.co%2Ftr%3Aar-16-9%2Cw-1422%2Cpr-true%2Cf-webp%2Cq-50%2F2024%2F10%2FInventory%2F169301074%2F2022-mazda-2-sedan-high-skyactiv-1.5l-N95ELJZRPO-mytukar-011.jpeg&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" alt=\"Car Media Image\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The interior remains one of the Mazda 2\u2019s strongest selling points. Build quality is solid, the driving position is low and sporty, and visibility is good.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, space is not its strongest trait. Rear legroom is tight for taller adults, and the boot is smaller than most rivals. This is more of a driver-focused car than a family car.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Reliability and ownership experience<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Mazda 2 has a good reputation for long-term reliability. The SkyActiv engine is proven and durable, and the torque converter gearbox is far more robust than many dual-clutch systems.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maintenance costs are slightly higher than a Perodua or Proton but remain reasonable for a Japanese imported model. Fuel consumption of the Mazda 2 is also good for daily use.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Short buying guide for used Mazda 2<\/h2>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Mazda 2 Model<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Who it\u2019s best for<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Key points<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pre-facelift (2015\u20132016)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buyers on a tight budget<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Good handling, premium feel. But car lacks some safety features.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GVC models (2017\u20132019)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buyers seeking balance of price and refinement<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best value sweet spot, smooth driving and sufficient features<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Facelift models (2020 onwards)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buyers who want newest look and handling<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smoothest handling with GVC Plus, updated design<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Always check full service history, accident records, and whether the car has been maintained at authorised or reputable workshops.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Common problems to look out for<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While the Mazda 2 is generally reliable, here are a few things to inspect before buying.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Worn suspension components on high-mileage cars<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brake disc and pad wear due to spirited driving<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Infotainment system glitches on older units<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cosmetic wear on seat bolsters and steering wheel<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tyre wear from aggressive cornering<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also confirm that all electronic features, sensors, and steering response feel normal during the test drive.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Want a hassle free purchase? You can always check out Carro Certified cars that have gone through a thorough 160-pint inspection.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Get a Mazda 2 now!<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From 2015 to 2024, the <a href=\"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/en\/buy\/mazda\/2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mazda 2<\/a> never reinvented itself. Instead, it focused on refining what already worked. The addition of GVC in 2017 and GVC Plus in 2020 significantly improved driving smoothness and stability. While its safety equipment now feels dated, its build quality, handling, and engine refinement still stand out.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you value how a car feels on the road more than having the longest features list, the Mazda 2 remains one of the most satisfying B-segment hatchbacks you can buy in Malaysia today.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Mazda 2 &#8211; both the hatchback and sedan &#8211; has always attracted buyers who want a small car that feels premium. From its launch in 2015, the G-Vectoring Control (GVC) update in 2017, and the facelift in 2020, the Mazda 2 evolved quietly but consistently.\u00a0 That said, do note that as of 2024, the &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":20,"featured_media":10065,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[537,3],"tags":[73,567],"class_list":["post-10064","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-car-buying-tips","category-car-reviews","tag-mazda-2","tag-mazda-2-hatchback"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10064","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/20"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10064"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10064\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10067,"href":"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10064\/revisions\/10067"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10065"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10064"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10064"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/carro.co\/my\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10064"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}