November 1, 2007. Copyright 2007, Graphic News. All rights reserved

Mazda 2 -- Pretty new supermini will be strong contender
By Neil Winton

LONDON, November 1, Graphic News: MazdaÕs new supermini looks dramatically different from the previous model, and because of its lightweight body and efficient engines it is also more environmentally friendly.

The old Mazda 2 looked boxy and boring, and was produced in Valencia, Spain, alongside the Ford Fiesta -- U.S. company Ford owns about 33 percent of JapanÕs Mazda.

The stylish, wedge-shaped new Mazda 2 is much easier on the eye and will be made in Hiroshima, Japan. The new car retains its link with the Ford Fiesta; the basic components of the Mazda 2 -- engine, computers, suspension and many body parts, will also be used in the new Fiesta, to be launched next year.

Mazda said that a combination of younger people demanding more from their cars, and older buyers trading down, has led to small cars becoming much more competent and providing better value for money. Some higher specification Mazda 2s will offer standard features which used to be associated only with upmarket vehicles, including cruise control, lights and windscreen wipers which switch themselves on automatically, electric folding mirrors and MP3 connectors.

The first Mazda 2s will be offered with a choice of three petrol engines -- 1.3 litre / 75bhp, 1.3 litre / 86bhp, and 1.5 litre / 103bhp -- and a diesel will be available by the end of the year. ThatÕs a strange marketing decision when you consider that in mainland Europe, more than 50 percent of new cars are now diesel. 

Both of the smaller engines can produce average fuel economy of 52.3 miles per gallon (5.4 litres per 100km), while the most powerful motor can still manage 47.9mpg (5.9 l/100km). Top speeds range from 104-117mph (167-188km/h) and acceleration times from rest to 62mph/100km/h in 10.4-14.0 seconds.

Prices start at £8,499 (12,100 euros) for the TS model, and equipment increments for the higher specification TS2 and Sport cost £1,500 (2,100 euros) and £1,800 (2,500 euros) respectively.

On the roads around Siena, Italy, the Mazda 2 drove well, showing sharp handling on the twisty byways and an ability to cruise quietly at high motorway speeds. Performance felt snappy, even from the base model. Inside the car, quality is good, with smart instruments reminiscent of MazdaÕs more expensive MX-5 roadster and RX-8 sports car. The five-speed manual gearbox was top-notch. 

The car is four centimetres (1.5in) shorter than its predecessor and the boot space is a mediocre 250 litres. Usability is boosted by a hidden load area under the floor of the boot, which has built-in dividers to stop things rattling about. The use of high-tensile steel has cut about 100kg (220-lbs) from the overall weight, about 10 percent less than the previous model.

The Mazda 2 is set to storm the supermini sector with its combination of terrific looks, great handling, thoughtful design, impressive fuel economy and affordable, comprehensive pricing. However, there is so much choice in this sector of the market that price is likely to be the crucial factor when buyers make up their minds.
/ENDS