More on new 2

Mazda says its new 2, launched this week at the Geneva show, is more than a replacement for the existing model.

The first of a new generation of cars, the 2 points the way to what we can expect when the 6, 3 and to a lesser extent Tribute are replaced over the next two years.

The 2 seeks to "refine Mazda's DNA -- Distinctive Design, Exceptional Functionality, and Responsive Handling and Performance -- while enhancing driving quality in terms of attributes such as ride comfort and quietness and meeting global environmental and safety performance standards," the maker says… Without drawing breath!

Australia is typical of world markets in terms of the growth of the Light (or B-car) segment. The Mazda 2 is targeting the segment globally but is designed and built specifically to expand the brand's reach into Europe. But the 2 is also set to win a few hearts locally, if response to the initial shots of the car on the CarPoint/Carsales websites is anything to go by.

In contrast to the trend in small cars, the new Mazda 2 will not be bigger than the car it replaces. Indeed, at 3885mm in length and with a wheelbase, width and height of 2490, 1695 and 1475mm respectively, the new 2 will fit into a 'box' 5 per cent smaller than the current model. It is 50mm (approx) shorter than the current 'boxy' 2 and around 65mm lower. Wheelbases are near identical, only width increases -- around 15mm.

Built on an all-new architecture (that will be shared with the new Ford Fiesta), the 2 weighs in under 1000kg in its base specification. Though final kerb weight for Aussie-spec cars will depend on equipment and engine/gearbox options, the new car should be up to 100kg lighter than the current offer.

Mazda says the size and weight reduction has not impacted safety. Indeed, it claims the new car offers better crash protection and a full complement of restraints including side curtain airbags. Note that these will likely be optional when they arrive Down Under.

In terms of active safety, the maker says the 2 offers better straight line stability and predictable handling. Dynamic Stability Control will be an option.

As previewed here two petrol engines will be offered -- 1.3 and 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated DOHC fuel-injected four-cylinder units. These are from the same MZR engine family as the latest CX-7 and MPS range.

The 1.5 features variable valve timing and an output of 103kW. And if there's any doubting Mazda's intent of playing up the Zoom Zoom factor of the new car, check out the pictures hereabouts. Note the dark hued car features a bodykit. Yee hah!

Thanks to special attention to weight saving, better aerodynamics and a raft of engineroom changes, the new Mazda2 delivers what Mazda claims are some of the best fuel economy figures in its segment -- improvements of up 15 per cent have been quoted. While no stats have been proffered on the big-bore version, Mazda is claimed 5.4lt/100km for the 1.3-litre variant.

For the European market, a MZ-CD 1.4 turbodiesel engine will be launched later this year.

The new Mazda2 will be built in Japan and will arrive in Australian dealerships by October 2007. Pricing and local specifications are not expected to be finalised until later in the year.

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