2011 Mazda2 debut kit
Mazda is expanding its lineup, bringing its diminutive Mazda2 subcompact to the North American market in time for the 2011 model year. Based on the same architecture that powers the new Ford Focus, the Mazda2 is its own beast and will likely appeal to Mazda3 enthusiasts, already which is by far the best-selling model in the Mazda fleet.
In addition to sharing the same platform, the Mazda2 and Ford Fiesta share front and rear wheel bearings, front bumper strut mounts, and front stabilizer bar and links, according to Automotive News. Beyond that, everything about the Mazda2 is unique to that vehicle.
Economic motor
Originally launched in 2007, the Mazda2 has been on sale in Japan, Australia and Europe, and has since won numerous car of the year awards and accolades. Powered by a 100-horsepower 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the Mazda2 is available with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.
Included standard features include 15-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers, all-season tires, body-color power door handles and mirrors, air conditioning, power windows and locks, an AM/FM/CD stereo /MP3 with four speakers, auxiliary audio jack, tilt steering wheel, remote keyless entry system, rear wiper/washer and 60/40 split folding rear seats.
popular options
Optionally, customers can add a rear bumper protector, wheel locks with Touring Package only, full floor mats, cargo net, center console with armrest, and auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass. Speaking of the touring model, that car will include upgraded cloth seats, 15-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, rear roof spoiler, chrome exhaust tip, leather-wrapped steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls, trip and a two speakers.
Seating is for four passengers, with 100 cubic inches of cabin space, while the cargo area offers 13.3 cubic feet, more than double when the rear seat is folded down.
gas mileage
Fuel economy with the Mazda2 is projected to be 28 city, 35 highway mpg with the manual transmission or 34 mpg with the automatic. Those numbers are at the low end of the fuel economy range and well below the 30 mpg city and 40 mpg highway offered by the Ford Fiesta. Even most midsize cars match Mazda’s highway mileage, one area where the Mazda2 definitely needs improvement.
Base sticker price for the 2011 Mazda2 is $13,980 plus a $750 destination charge. Fully equipped models will sell for around $17,000, within the range of most equipped subcompact models. Mazda says the car will go on sale in July 2010.