Mazda2 vs. Toyota Yaris: Which Small Japanse Hatch Is Better?

While they aren't fantastic to drive, superminis are heavy hitters of the industry because people can't afford anything else. Alternatively, emissions taxes or lack of parking can play to their strengths, particularly in Europe.

But this isn't a European review; it's Australian, and in many ways mirrors the comparison between the RAV4 and CX-5.

Both models have been updated with new features. However, the much older Toyota model also underwent a mid-life refresh. Supposedly the design mirrors that of a catamaran race boat, but we're not particularly fond of it. Bright burned orange paint does, however, hide some of the horrors.

The comparison review is shot from the perspective of two different types of buyers, those who want a supermini to be their first car and those who want it to be their last.

For teens, both miss out on Apple Carplay and Android Auto, but the Mazda2 makes it easier to connect your phone and can be fitted with a head-up display. When I was a novice driver, I often forgot to check my mirrors. Thankfully, Mazda also fitted their car with blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard (in Australia).

Points also go to Mazda for its Zoom-Zoomier 1.5-liter engine and 6-speed automatic combo. The Yaris is pretty loud, and that's partly due to the 4-speed automatic, which is obsolete technology. Being of an older generation, its platform isn't as rigid, so the suspension has to compensate and can feel jarring as a result.

The outcome is not surprising, really: Mazda makes a more desirable, more enjoyable and modern hatchback. Toyota is known for reliability and practicality, so if you're turning 70 soon, it's the one to get. Still, it's worth pointing out that a lot of Europeans are getting it as a hybrid, roughly equivalent to the Prius c in Australia.