What's the news?
Mazda has revealed its all-new Fiesta-rivalling Mazda2 supermini, drawing heavy influence inside and out from the Mazda6 and Mazda3, while debuting the Japanese company's new 1.5-litre 'SkyActiv-D' diesel engine.
On the outside, the new Mazda2 sticks exceptionally close to the styling of the concept version shown at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year, called the Hazumi. In fact, aside from slightly toned-down lights, wheels and door mirrors, it is the Hazumi concept, just one you can buy in showrooms. Which is another way of saying that it might just be the best-looking small car around right now.
Along with the SkyActiv-D diesel 1.5, there will also be the 1.5-litre SkyActiv-G petrol engine that's already seeing service in the Mazda3, and a choice of manual or automatic transmissions. There's also the option of the MZD Connect infotainment system and Mazda claims that the 2 has "a class-beating range of i-ACTIVSENSE active safety technology and a remarkably spacious and refined interior."
Anything else?
This is a hugely significant car for Mazda. The previous generations of 2 (and Demio, depending on the market) have sold 2.4 million units worldwide since 1996, and this Mazda2 will also form the basis of a spin-off compact crossover model to challenge the likes of the Nissan Juke and Peugeot 2008, likely to be called the Mazda CX-3. The 2 goes on sale first in Japan in the autumn and should reach the UK by the end of the year.
Neil Briscoe - 18 Jul 2014