New Mazda2 unveiled 21 | 07 | 2014
THE SUPERMINI BATTLE is set to become even more intense after Mazda unveiled the definitive version of its new Mazda2. In Scottish showrooms early in 2015, the car will make its public debut at October's Paris Motor Show.
Set to go head-to-head with the likes of the Ford Fiesta, VW Polo, Toyota Yaris and the third-gen Skoda Fabia, the new Mazda gets the Japanese manufacturer's innovative SkyActiv technology.
Built at the firm’s plant in Hofu, near Hiroshima, Mazda believes the new model's "winning combination" will be its mix of “performance, fuel economy, safety and driving fun”.
Understandably expected to be lighter, more agile and more frugal than the current 2, Mazda has confirmed the new range will be the first car to get its new 1.5-litre turbodiesel SkyActiv engine. The powerplant is expected to dip below the 90g/km CO2 threshold.
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Lifted from the current Mazda3, the 1.5-litre petrol SkyActiv engine will be available in the new 2 in various different power outputs: both six-speed SkyActiv automatic and manual transmissions will be available.
Built to Mazda's SkyActiv technology principles of being lightweight and rigid, the new 2 gets a new chassis and body. The result is likely to be one of the lightest superminis in the segment, with a kerb weight easily below 1000kg.
The new Mazda2 is, essentially, a production version of the acclaimed Hazumi concept which made its first appearance in Geneva in March. Close scrutiny identifies only the headlights, wheels, wing mirrors and door handles have changes.
While Mazda has yet to confirm the dimensions of the new 2, it's unlikely to move much from those of the Hazumi, which was 4070mm long, 1730mm wide and 1450mm high. That compares to the current Mazda2's current 3920mm length, 1695mm width and 1475mm height.
With the 2's interior heavily influenced by the current 3, there's also expected to be a noticeable increase in space, helped by the longer wheelbase. It's also likely the new Mazda2 will benefit from the use of higher quality materials and a reduction in the amount of switchgear.
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Jim McGill