Though the global Mazda 2 will be shown next month at the Paris Motor Show, the Hiroshima-based automaker has begun taking reservations for the domestic-market model. Mazda also released a slew of new information, including pricing and drivetrain options.
Called the Demio in Japan, it is Mazda’s first D-segment entry since cutting ties with Ford in 2008. As such, it is the first in what the company is calling a “new generation” Mazda, developed from the ground up with no platform sharing with the Ford Fiesta. It also adopts the Kodo design language with stylish new 5-point grille and wings extending into the headlights.
Two drivetrain options corroborate early confirmation of a 1.3L petrol engine and 1.5L turbodiesel, but now power and fuel economy figures are known. The 1.3L SkyActiv-G produces a higher-than-expected 91 hp at 6,000 rpm and 89 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm and returns 58 mpg on the Japan testing cycle.
The torquier 1.5L SkyActiv-D turbo makes 103 hp at 4000 rpm and an impressive 184 lb-ft at as low as 1,500 rpm while returning 71 mpg on the Japanese cycle. Mazda likens the performance to a 2.5L petrol engine, but sadly it is not expected to make landfall on US shores.
Both mills are available with a choice of manual or 6-speed automatic, though the 1.3 can only be paired with a 5-speed manual and the 1.5 with a 6-speed. Front- and an all-wheel-drive system derived from the Mazda CX-5′s can be combined with any drivetrain, though the US will likely only receive front-drive models.
All Japanese models will also be equipped Mazda’s i-ELOOP system, which powers the climate control, audio system, and other electrical equipment with stored energy gathered from a regenerative braking system.
Available safety equipment includes braking support when a rear-ender collision is imminent, lane departure warnings and rear cross-traffic alerts for backing out of a space.
Pricing for base front-drive models start at Japanese yen equivalent of $12,576, while a top-trim 1.5L AWD version begins at $20,422. Both manual and automatic transmissions are offered at the same price.
New colors, including Dynamic Blue Mica, Smoky Rose Mica and premium Soul Red three of 10 color choices.
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