With the current COE prices, competition has been more intense than ever amongst the Japanese car brands. Suzuki, Nissan, Toyota and even Mazda have worked hard to develop potential cars that can put even luxurious cars to shame.
Suzuki and Nissan have the Kizashi and the Qashqai respectively while Toyota has the all-new Altis. As for Mazda, a brand new smiling face can be seen on most of its models and that alone has brought the brand up, nearly toppling some big continental models.
Reviews have been done to most of these cars but when it comes down to making a choice of buying one, we have decided to bring it up to the next level.
The Toyota Vios 1.5E as well as the Mazda2 Sedan have recently caught our eyes. From a dull-looking kid to a handsome young man, the Vios' outlook and spaciousness have been given thumbs up by many, let alone its practicality.
But with Mazda being a rising star in the small sedan segment, the zoom-zoom has caught the attention of many with its models. Mazda might have captured the eyes of the people with its Mazda2 Sport, but it has certainly won many hearts with the sedan.
Exterior
Styling wise, we personally feel that Toyota has put in a lot of effort and thought into facelifting its baby. As a result, Vios has undergone some refreshing aesthetic changes that are sure to keep it from looking outdated.
While most of the facelift will at least have a new bumper design, Toyota Vios facelift retains the same bumper. However, a new radiator grille, which features bolder lines, fixed to the facelifted Vios is easily noticeable. The new design is said to give the car a more sporty appearance. However, we think that it's more of an "elegance" theme as it reminds us of the Camry styled front grille.
Suzuki and Nissan have the Kizashi and the Qashqai respectively while Toyota has the all-new Altis. As for Mazda, a brand new smiling face can be seen on most of its models and that alone has brought the brand up, nearly toppling some big continental models.
Reviews have been done to most of these cars but when it comes down to making a choice of buying one, we have decided to bring it up to the next level.
The Toyota Vios 1.5E as well as the Mazda2 Sedan have recently caught our eyes. From a dull-looking kid to a handsome young man, the Vios' outlook and spaciousness have been given thumbs up by many, let alone its practicality.
But with Mazda being a rising star in the small sedan segment, the zoom-zoom has caught the attention of many with its models. Mazda might have captured the eyes of the people with its Mazda2 Sport, but it has certainly won many hearts with the sedan.
Exterior
Styling wise, we personally feel that Toyota has put in a lot of effort and thought into facelifting its baby. As a result, Vios has undergone some refreshing aesthetic changes that are sure to keep it from looking outdated.
While most of the facelift will at least have a new bumper design, Toyota Vios facelift retains the same bumper. However, a new radiator grille, which features bolder lines, fixed to the facelifted Vios is easily noticeable. The new design is said to give the car a more sporty appearance. However, we think that it's more of an "elegance" theme as it reminds us of the Camry styled front grille.
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The front bumper and the fog lamps take on a more angular appearance, giving the Vios a more manly presence on the road. The opposite end, meanwhile, features fresh-looking rear combination lamps, which while nothing groundbreaking, still serve to give this car a breath of fresh air.
On the other hand, the Mazda2 Sedan isn't as aggressive as we would like it to be. Although it follows the curves of its brawny siblings like the Mazda3 and Mazda6, the smaller one is more sexy and humble.
The headlamps have been stretched cat-eyed wide while distinctive fog lamps broadcast a sense of stability and inspire confidence. With Mazda's now well-known front fascia, Mazda2 appears to be all smiles and that's the one thing that differentiates itself from its pack.
From the outside, one can clearly see that the Mazda2 Sedan is unlike any other sedans currently being offered in its class - its sweeping, strong design lines and dynamic shape set it apart from the dull competitors. Although the rear part is too high which gives its side profile a rather weird look, Mazda has created a unique and sexy design.
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Interior
Moving on to the interior, the seamless layout of the cockpit and the easy placement of all the important controls are evidence to the Vios's convenience and practicality. The new steering wheel gives the driver a sporty feel and is also aimed to help the car keep in touch with the youthful market. Step out of the driver's seat and even the door slams on a decidedly upscale thud.
Unfortunately, unlike the 'G' sport variant, the 'J' sport and our test car, which is the 'E' sport, do not come with audio controls on the steering wheel, making it a little inconvenient when it comes to audio and display adjustments.
However, it does score points for bravery as the speedometer and odometer readings are not at the usual driver's frontal side, but instead, located at the centre of the dashboard, giving resemblance to sports cars alike.
It may be creative, but it can also be a tad distracting when the driver has to constantly look away from the road to peak at the speed he or she is driving at.
Nevertheless, Toyota wins on space hands down. In terms of legroom for its passengers, the Vios is able to swallow three adults with ease. With a space of 475 litres, boot space is relatively adequate for its class, creating convenience for hauling a luggage and a couple of grocery bags without much effort.
Moving on to the interior, the seamless layout of the cockpit and the easy placement of all the important controls are evidence to the Vios's convenience and practicality. The new steering wheel gives the driver a sporty feel and is also aimed to help the car keep in touch with the youthful market. Step out of the driver's seat and even the door slams on a decidedly upscale thud.
Unfortunately, unlike the 'G' sport variant, the 'J' sport and our test car, which is the 'E' sport, do not come with audio controls on the steering wheel, making it a little inconvenient when it comes to audio and display adjustments.
However, it does score points for bravery as the speedometer and odometer readings are not at the usual driver's frontal side, but instead, located at the centre of the dashboard, giving resemblance to sports cars alike.
It may be creative, but it can also be a tad distracting when the driver has to constantly look away from the road to peak at the speed he or she is driving at.
Nevertheless, Toyota wins on space hands down. In terms of legroom for its passengers, the Vios is able to swallow three adults with ease. With a space of 475 litres, boot space is relatively adequate for its class, creating convenience for hauling a luggage and a couple of grocery bags without much effort.
The Mazda2, however, has a different package altogether. With the sedan's rising beltline from front to rear, it has created a boot space of a mere 450 litres. Hence, keeping those shopping trips down and buying only what you need is vital.
Space wise, passengers in the Vios will be a smiling bunch than the ones in the Mazda2. The car takes four passengers at the back, but ideally it is suited to three or at a pinch two adults and one junior. The rear centre seat is on the firm side and offers little head room for an average-size adult. Leg room is adequate while three adults will struggle with shoulder room.
Nonetheless, there's substance under the sheet metal. The interior of the sexy sedan is chic and classy. Instead of the massive dull grey interior (which is apparent in the Vios), the Mazda2 Sedan has brushed bits of aluminium finishing on the centre console and gear selector, giving a well-balanced feel to its interior.
Additionally, buttons and controls are placed exactly where they should be (steering wheel has audio controls), allowing the driver to control the settings of the car with no trouble.
Space wise, passengers in the Vios will be a smiling bunch than the ones in the Mazda2. The car takes four passengers at the back, but ideally it is suited to three or at a pinch two adults and one junior. The rear centre seat is on the firm side and offers little head room for an average-size adult. Leg room is adequate while three adults will struggle with shoulder room.
Nonetheless, there's substance under the sheet metal. The interior of the sexy sedan is chic and classy. Instead of the massive dull grey interior (which is apparent in the Vios), the Mazda2 Sedan has brushed bits of aluminium finishing on the centre console and gear selector, giving a well-balanced feel to its interior.
Additionally, buttons and controls are placed exactly where they should be (steering wheel has audio controls), allowing the driver to control the settings of the car with no trouble.
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The Drive
On the go, the Vios loses out a tad bit to the Mazda2 Sedan.
On a day-to-day basis, the Mazda 2 would be the perfect companion. The cargo area may not be the best in its class, but pack light and the problem is solved. That being said, the motor feels quick when pushed hard.
Even on highways, the engine is smooth and has enough power for overtaking. This 1.5-litre hums along nicely, thrives on revs and makes the right noises when hard at work.
The Mazda2 Sedan has no bad habits, but neither does it handle like a Lotus. The suspension is fairly compliant resulting in a good ride over uneven surfaces. Around the corners, the Mazda does roll a bit, but nothing grave enough to make you lose your lunch.
Moreover, the brakes are close to perfect. It's precise and sharp and it comes to a halt without any fuss when instructed to. Although the Mazda's pushing prowess isn't breathtaking, the acceleration is sharp and relatively effortless for a car its size.
The Vios 1.5E proposition is slightly different. Although it packs more power and torque on paper, it does not come across as a faster or more powerful car. You certainly have to prod the accelerator a bit harder to get it to perform according to the specs.
Additionally, the featherweight steering of the Vios, which is such a joy in the parking lot and in traffic, is a touch too light and numb to inspire confidence in enthusiastic cornering - which is something you wouldn't want to do anyway. The torsion-beam rear suspension feels a bit unsettled during such driving mischief, as if it's nervous of anything beyond placid cornering loads.
On the go, the Vios loses out a tad bit to the Mazda2 Sedan.
On a day-to-day basis, the Mazda 2 would be the perfect companion. The cargo area may not be the best in its class, but pack light and the problem is solved. That being said, the motor feels quick when pushed hard.
Even on highways, the engine is smooth and has enough power for overtaking. This 1.5-litre hums along nicely, thrives on revs and makes the right noises when hard at work.
The Mazda2 Sedan has no bad habits, but neither does it handle like a Lotus. The suspension is fairly compliant resulting in a good ride over uneven surfaces. Around the corners, the Mazda does roll a bit, but nothing grave enough to make you lose your lunch.
Moreover, the brakes are close to perfect. It's precise and sharp and it comes to a halt without any fuss when instructed to. Although the Mazda's pushing prowess isn't breathtaking, the acceleration is sharp and relatively effortless for a car its size.
The Vios 1.5E proposition is slightly different. Although it packs more power and torque on paper, it does not come across as a faster or more powerful car. You certainly have to prod the accelerator a bit harder to get it to perform according to the specs.
Additionally, the featherweight steering of the Vios, which is such a joy in the parking lot and in traffic, is a touch too light and numb to inspire confidence in enthusiastic cornering - which is something you wouldn't want to do anyway. The torsion-beam rear suspension feels a bit unsettled during such driving mischief, as if it's nervous of anything beyond placid cornering loads.
But there is, no doubt, a good side to it. Although handling is not the best in its class, the Vios scores points for its ride quality. The car remains agile and pliant when thrown around, with good grips from the Yokohama tyres.
The 2 and Vios score good marks for its power and ride quality respectively. While not nearly as impressive as some of the competitors in its class, the two highly recommended compact sedans' real world driving experience will satisfy most potential car buyers.
Conclusion
Although the Toyota Vios 1.5E loses a tad bit to Mazda2 in terms of their fuel efficiency of 14.3km/l (Mazda2 clocks 14.7km/l), it's the type of car that it's hard to feel any buyer's remorse for. It's practical, comfortable and it certainly doesn't look half bad.
On the other hand, the Mazda has made a good car better. The Mazda2 Sedan is characterised by a combination of dynamism, sexiness and simplicity, which leaves a strong visual impression. It may not be the cheapest in its segment, but as a value for money buy, it is hard to fault.
But one thing is certain for the compact sedans - they are both practical choices as a daily commuter. It's good enough for a bachelor, bachelorette, or a small family just starting out in life.
At a price of $68,988 for Vios (as of 23 Sept 2010) and $75,988 for Mazda2 Sedan (as of 24 Sept 2010), it's not as high tech and sophisticated as higher-end vehicles out there, but you'll get a reliable car from a reputable and reliable brand.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The 2 and Vios score good marks for its power and ride quality respectively. While not nearly as impressive as some of the competitors in its class, the two highly recommended compact sedans' real world driving experience will satisfy most potential car buyers.
Conclusion
Although the Toyota Vios 1.5E loses a tad bit to Mazda2 in terms of their fuel efficiency of 14.3km/l (Mazda2 clocks 14.7km/l), it's the type of car that it's hard to feel any buyer's remorse for. It's practical, comfortable and it certainly doesn't look half bad.
On the other hand, the Mazda has made a good car better. The Mazda2 Sedan is characterised by a combination of dynamism, sexiness and simplicity, which leaves a strong visual impression. It may not be the cheapest in its segment, but as a value for money buy, it is hard to fault.
But one thing is certain for the compact sedans - they are both practical choices as a daily commuter. It's good enough for a bachelor, bachelorette, or a small family just starting out in life.
At a price of $68,988 for Vios (as of 23 Sept 2010) and $75,988 for Mazda2 Sedan (as of 24 Sept 2010), it's not as high tech and sophisticated as higher-end vehicles out there, but you'll get a reliable car from a reputable and reliable brand.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
