New market for 2

Mazda launched its latest Mazda2 hatch Down Under this week with news that the three-model range will start from $16,500.

That sort of money gets you the Neo base model, which, like all new-generation 2s, comes as a five-door hatch only and gets air-conditioning, power windows and mirrors, ABS brakes and MP3-compatible CD player as standard equipment.

Despite a price increase pegged at $165 in the case of the Neo, Mazda is claiming the new 2 delivers around $1000 additional value.

The Maxx is 2's mid-ranger and starts at $18,710. On top of the Neo's spec it adds 15-inch alloys, six-disc CD player with steering wheel-mounted audio controls and a rear spoiler. The top 2 is the Genki, for $20,845, including 16-inch alloys, six airbags, leather-trimmed steering wheel and front fogs.

The new model uses the predecessor's 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine; reworked to meet Euro IV regulations. Output ratings are 76kW/137Nm for new Mazda2 -- down from 82kW/141Nm. Mazda claims fuel consumption has improved slightly.

All models are standard with a five-speed manual transmission. The optional four-speed automatic transmission will set you back an extra $1650.

The latest Mazda2 is safer than the superseded model, coming standard with ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution) and brake assist. Mazda expects the car to earn a five-star rating when tested by Euro NCAP.

The new 2 also offers stability control across the range – a first for Mazda. A safety pack including Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and side and curtain airbags is offered for Neo and Maxx at $1100. The DSC upgrade for Genki (it gets six airbags as standard) is $700.

The previous 2's tall, "practical" styling has been redesigned for what Mazda says is now a global car, with European, Japanese and Australian markets in mind. Streamlined and generally smaller, apart from a slight increase in width, the new model's sleek looks are aimed at younger buyers in an effort to widen the light car's sales appeal.

Despite the sporty new look, Mazda Australia chief Doug Dickson told the Carsales Network that the company expected the new 2 to retain its traditional customers. He suggested the new model's dimensions are still suited to the older demographic (50-plus) attracted to the previous 2's convenience.

Interior passenger space and cargo capacity "remain competitive", claims Mazda. The new model has 250 litres of load space in the boot, and 787 litres with rear 60:40 split-fold seat backs down. Maximum load length is 1313mm.

The new 2 has good outward vision by way of a repositioned, sloping beltline, which is 40mm lower at the front than the outgoing model. The cabin is well styled and we were impressed with the new car's overall handling during our brief launch drive around Coolum in SE Queensland this week.

Visit the Carsales Network again soon for our local drive impression and check out our international launch review here.

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