Before Apple introduced the larger and thinner Plus variant to the iPhone 6, users who wanted a smartphone with a sizable screen often opted for Samsungs. But when the iPhone 6 Plus arrived, the world went wild.
Similarly, before Mazda released the sedan variant of the fourth generation Mazda2, people looking for a compact sedan turned to cars like the Chevrolet Sonic Sedan, Hyundai Accent 4D and Mitsubishi Attrage for solutions to their transport needs.
And with titles like sgCarMart's Compact Hatchback of the Year 2015 under its belt, the Mazda2 Hatchback has already proven itself as dominant force in its segment. Seeing that sedans have more rigid bodies than hatches and a much larger luggage area, how will the Mazda2 Sedan fare?Up close and Personal
Some compact sedans tend to look a little awkward as their boots appear to be an afterthought addition but the Mazda2 Sedan has all the right proportions that encompass the company's Kodo styling philosophy.
The addition of a 440-litre boot is managed by extending the body of the sedan by 260mm over that of the hatchback. However, both cars share the same platform, so the wheelbase remains the same at a substantial 2,570mm.
What the Mazda2 Sedan also shares is the Hatch's signature long nose, strong grille shape, sleek sheet metal and sporty 16-inch wheels. Not forgetting build quality, which is just as great despite being made in Thailand instead of Japan.
There is also no difference in cabin styling between the variants. Along with the centrally-mounted Mazda Connect integrated navigation and infotainment system, the dashboard is tastefully finished and the seats are comfortable and nicely shaped.
The Drive
On paper, the Mazda2 Sedan may be 19kg heavier than the Hatch but surprisingly 0.1 seconds faster from 0 to 100km/h. Judging from the Sedan's 2mm narrower width and 25mm lower height, better aerodynamics could be the reason for its swifter pace.
Otherwise, the car that you see here is powered by the same high-compression, naturally aspirated 1.5-litre SkyActiv engine that produces 114bhp and 148Nm of torque.
This engine may be humble in size and power but the little lump is eager to punch through the revs and is capable of hauling the car easily through and past traffic.
On paper, the Mazda2 Sedan may be 19kg heavier than the Hatch but surprisingly 0.1 seconds faster from 0 to 100km/h. Judging from the Sedan's 2mm narrower width and 25mm lower height, better aerodynamics could be the reason for its swifter pace.
Otherwise, the car that you see here is powered by the same high-compression, naturally aspirated 1.5-litre SkyActiv engine that produces 114bhp and 148Nm of torque.
This engine may be humble in size and power but the little lump is eager to punch through the revs and is capable of hauling the car easily through and past traffic.
On the move, the Mazda2 Sedan's extra length and reconstructed weight distribution have quite obviously worked in its favour.
Chassis and suspension is proper. The car is planted even at high speeds and dashes around a bend in customarily playful Japanese fashion but also with a sense that experienced German craftsmen aided in the engineering process.
Conclusion
As a driver's machine, the $87,888 (as of 18th February 2016) Mazda2 Sedan 1.5 Deluxe is an absolute delight and even better as a compact people carrier - comfortable and practical.
It also does the job of swaying hatch owners like this writer into wanting a sedan. Now when will Suzuki make a booted version of the Swift Sport?
