Mazda2 hatchback (2007-2015) - MPG, running costs & CO2

The Mazda2 is attractively priced and backed by predicted residual values of at least 45%, which is excellent for a supermini.

Mazda2 MPG and CO2

The lack of a diesel engine in the range counts against the Mazda2 here. So if you're doing in excess of 18,000 miles a year, then it's best to look elsewhere. However, not many supermini buyers rack up so many miles, so perhaps Mazda is wise to have dropped the old 1.6-litre diesel.

And while the remaining 1.3 and 1.5-litre petrols simply can't compete against mpg champions such as the Kia Rio 1.1-litre diesel (88mpg) and VW Polo BlueMotion diesel (81mpg), they're more efficient than you'd think. For instance, the Mazda's low weight enables it to achieve pretty impressive fuel economy for a petrol-engined car – both the 74 and 83bhp versions of the 1.3-litre petrol engine claim a respectable 56.5mpg.

They also emit just 115g/km of CO2, meaning zero road tax in the first year and only £30 a year thereafter. Yet while the 1.5-litre automatic should return a not-too-shabby 45mpg in everyday driving, it's hobbled by a high CO2 figure of 145g/km, which results in a hefty £145 annual road tax bill.

However, a low initial purchase price helps offset the high CO2 emissions when it comes to BiK (Benefit-in-Kind) bills, so company-car drivers looking to downsize will find the Mazda2 doesn’t make a big impact on their wallets.

Mazda2 insurance group

A low insurance group keeps your annual premium down, whichever model of Mazda2 you choose. And strong residual values mean you won't lose as much money in depreciation over three years of owning a Mazda2 as you would with some less desirable rival models. Our experts predict that the worst residual figure you can expect is around 45%, while the Colour special-edition model will retain an excellent 48.7% of its value after three years.

Mazda2 warranty

A good warranty is essential for keeping running costs low in the long term, and unfortunately Mazda doesn't head the field here. Its standard warranty only covers you for three years or 60,000 miles. Compare that to rivals such as Kia (seven years or 100,000 miles) and Hyundai (unlimited mileage for up to five years) and you'll feel a little short-changed, especially seeing as Mazda has such a strong reputation for reliability. Of course, it’s possible to extend the warranty at extra cost.

Mazda2 servicing

The Mazda2's service schedule lets you go for up to 12,500 miles between services, so trips to the dealer won't be too frequent. Mazda also allows flexibility in how you pay for your servicing. A one-off payment at the time of purchase can cover all your regular maintenance for three years or 37,500 miles, or alternatively you can sign up for a low monthly payment plan for the duration of the three-year period.