The 2023 Mazda2 has undergone a facelift in Japan, offering new customization options reminiscent of the Mini brand. The Mazda2, formerly Mazda's smallest vehicle positioned below the Mazda3, was discontinued after the 2014 model year in the US. Although the current third-generation model was brought over as a Scion and later rebadged as a Toyota Yaris, it was never officially sold in the US as a Mazda. The new facelift features several two-tone wheel caps, instrument panels that match the exterior paint, mirror colors, stripes, and roof films, with Mazda offering 198 possible combinations.

The Japanese market offers different trim levels, including the 15 BD (Blank Deck), XD BD (Crossed Beady), 15 Sport, XD Sport+, and 15 Sunlit Citrus. The Sunlit Citrus trim comes with smart brake support, radar cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The Mazda2 comes with a 1.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine that sends power to the front wheels or all-wheel-drive optionally. Most trim levels come with a six-speed automatic transmission, while the 15 Sport is available with a six-speed manual when equipped with FWD.

The Mazda2 is an attractive and affordable hatchback that starts at just 1,529,000 yen (roughly $11,770 USD), and the top model is only 2,541,000 yen (around $19,600). However, the Mazda2 is not sold in the US due to low demand for small cars in the country's crossover-obsessed market. As Mazda prepares to introduce the new CX-90 with its most powerful engine ever, fans fear the Japanese automaker is moving far away from the simple, fun-to-drive cars that cemented the brand in the US.