We’ve put the 2018 Honda Jazz, 2019 Toyota Yaris, as well as the 2020 Mazda 2 through the WapCar Ratings test and now let’s take a side-by-side look at all the aspects.

Driving Performance - Winner goes to Mazda 2

Unlike its immediate rivals, the Mazda 2 1.5L hatchback uses a 6-speed automatic transmission. Shifts are crisp and smooth. Plus, it feels more direct than its CVT rival.

Straight-line performance is impressive, quicker than the 120 PS Honda Jazz which completed the century sprint in 11.8 seconds.

Steering is direct as well, without noticeable off-centre numbness. The GVC+ can be felt in corners when it reduces the engine output and tucks the car into its intended line.

Ride Comfort - Toyota Yaris is the most comfortable

The quiet cabin, comfortable seats and supple suspension make the Toyota Yaris the most comfortable hatchback in its segment. 

Quality and Features - A tie between Mazda 2 and Toyota Yaris

In terms of panel gaps, the Toyota Yaris showed a remarkably symmetrical consistency between each sides, with no deviation at all. This indicates excellent build quality. 

However, there were several outliers in paint thickness for the Toyota Yaris. We suspect paint touch ups were made on our test car.

The Mazda 2 has the most upmarket interior build and material quality. The suede material on the door panels and middle section of the dashboard adds a touch of premium-ness to the cabin.

As for features, the Toyota Yaris is currently the most well-equipped car in its class, with 7 airbags, blind spot monitor, rear-cross traffic alert, and 360-degree camera.

Space and Practicality - Honda Jazz is king

This is where the Honda Jazz reigns supreme. The Ultra Seat offers the option of Tall Mode, which flipped the rear seats up, to transport tall items like plants or bookshelves. Door bins are rather small but compensated by the relatively large centre console storage.

The Toyota Yaris and Mazda 2 on the other hand, have a tighter cabin. Especially for the rear passengers in the Mazda 2. And there's no door bins at the rear.

Fuel consumption - Mazda 2 is the most fuel efficient

The Mazda 2 returned the lowest fuel consumption figure, making it the most fuel-efficient B-segment hatchback we've tested so far.

However, it does not have any Eco Mode/Assist, which penalised its overall score.

Purchase and Cost - A tie between Toyota Yaris and Honda Jazz

At RM 84,955 (0% SST), the 2018 Honda Jazz 1.5L V is slightly more expensive than the equivalent 2019 Toyota Yaris 1.5G. But servicing cost is a tad cheaper over the course of 5 years or 100,000 km, at RM 3,167.

The Mazda 2 1.5L hatchback is pricier than all its closest rivals but Mazda Malaysia does offer a 5-year/100,000 km free service program. And it’s rather fuel-efficient.

Conclusion

In summary, the 2018 Honda Jazz is the most spacious and practical hatchback in its class, with relatively low fuel consumption and maintenance cost. However, ride comfort and refinement trail behind the Toyota Yaris.

The Mazda 2 leads the class in driving performance, has good build and material quality, and is easy on fuel. But cabin is relatively tight and lacks storage spaces.

Overall, the Honda Jazz pulls ahead from its superior space and practicality. 

Ratings - 2018 Honda Jazz 1.5L V 

Ratings - 2020 Mazda 2 1.5 Hatchback 

Ratings - 2019 Toyota Yaris 1.5G