Mazda Mazda2 III (DJ) (2015 – 2024)

Reliability score : 8.5/10

The third-generation Mazda2 (code name DJ) is a versatile city car that stands out for its 'Kodo' design, driving dynamics, and refined interior finish, often superior to the segment average. Contrary to the trend of 'downsizing' and 3-cylinder turbo engines, Mazda opted for the 'Rightsizing' philosophy with naturally aspirated 4-cylinder blocks (Skyactiv-G) and a 4-cylinder turbodiesel with a very low compression ratio (Skyactiv-D). Restyled in 2019 and again in 2023, it was also sold under the Scion iA and Toyota Yaris badges in North America. Overall Note: An excellent performer in gasoline, the diesel version (which is given particular attention here) however requires very specific use, otherwise it risks serious financial setbacks.

✅ Strengths

Exceptional reliability of gasoline engines (Skyactiv-G)
Driving pleasure (dynamic chassis, excellent manual gearbox control)
Interior finish quality and ergonomics (premium-style multimedia dial)
Very low real-world fuel consumption, even with naturally aspirated gasoline
Rich standard equipment (especially on high-end Sélection/Exclusive trims)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Disastrous reliability of the diesel engine (1.5 Skyactiv-D) in urban use
Rear spaciousness and boot volume (280L) below the category average
Imperfect sound insulation on models before the 2019 facelift
Suspension a bit firm at low speeds
Aging infotainment system (MZD Connect) and sometimes prone to 'Ghost Touch'

🎯 Verdict

The Mazda2 (DJ) is a brilliant city car, but its verdict depends entirely on the chosen engine. If you are considering the diesel (1.5 Skyactiv-D): extreme caution is advised. This engine is an engineering marvel on paper, but it absolutely does not tolerate short urban trips. Clogging and oil dilution can destroy the engine. Only buy it with full knowledge of the facts, with an impeccable service history, and only if you drive more than 20,000 km/year on rural roads/highways. However, if you opt for a gasoline version (Skyactiv-G), it is one of the most reliable city cars on the global market.

Common issues

Dilution d'huile moteur (augmentation du niveau d'huile) High

🔧 Dès 30 000 km, surtout avec trajets courts/urbains

💶 Diagnostic + vidanges fréquentes (si non résolu par MAJ logicielle) : 150 – 300 € par intervention. Remplacement moteur si dommages : 4 000 – 7 000 €

Vérifier régulièrement le niveau d'huile; privilégier longs trajets pour régénération FAP.

Encrassement du FAP (Filtre à Particules) Medium

🔧 50 000 – 120 000 km, surtout avec trajets urbains

💶 Nettoyage FAP : 200 – 500 €. Remplacement FAP : 1 000 – 2 000 €

Effectuer des trajets autoroutiers réguliers pour permettre la régénération du FAP.

Encrassement de la vanne EGR Medium

🔧 70 000 – 150 000 km

💶 Nettoyage : 150 – 300 €. Remplacement : 400 – 800 €

Conduite régulière à régime moteur élevé; nettoyage préventif recommandé.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing chain	£650 – 1 300
Clutch	£750 – 1 400
Complete brakes	£220 – 480
Estimated annual budget	£550 – 1 100

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.