Mazda2

[drkhwy1]

Mazda2 Article

Mazda2 Designed for Global B-Car Market

Mazda Motor Corp. fires another salvo at the global B-car market with the unveiling of its new Mazda2 at the Geneva auto show.
Mazda says the B-car sector has grown some 10% in the last six years in Europe, where it now accounts for one in four new vehicles sold.

In designing the new model, Mazda says it focused on attributes important to B-car buyers, including superior fuel efficiency, lower carbon-dioxide emissions, easy-to-drive functionality, comfort and attention-grabbing styling.

Many of the new model’s design elements were seen first in the Mazda SASSOU concept that was a hit at the 2005 Frankfurt auto show.

The Mazda2 exterior design theme, called “coordinated movements,” makes the car look like it’s moving even when parked, a challenge given the car’s small size, Mazda says. For those who want an even sportier look, the Mazda2 will be offered with a Sports Appearance Package in certain markets.

The Mazda2 also features plenty of usable space, with a floor console between the front seats, a large rear stowage area and a 60:40-split rear seat.
The new Mazda2 is underpinned by a new platform and benefits from a body structure that is about 221 lbs. (100 kg) lighter than its predecessor, Mazda says. Upon launch, the car will be offered with a choice of either a 1.3L or 1.5L DOHC 4-cyl. gasoline engine. For the European market, a clean-running 1.4L 4-cyl. diesel will be available. All engines will be mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.

[millyowner]

Since it's a "B-Market" car, it's absurdly inexpensive but won't be sold in North America. The pic doesn't show the front. I've not been too happy with Mazda's latest radiator grille designs. The newest Toyota Camry looks terrible for the same reason; ugly radiator grille.

[drkhwy1]

Oh tell me about it, the Camry looks like quite horrible compared to the previous generation.

[Saint_]

I am very curious why they dont offer an AT version. Buyers of this type wants the easiest car with lots of windows, roomy interior, fuel efficiency (doesnt matter power as far as it is above 90hp). They will loose customers because of stick...

New camry is too high, somewhat unbalanced..

Oh tell me about it, the Camry looks like quite horrible compared to the previous generation.[/b]

[drkhwy1]

I wonder if an AT would kill what little power the 2 might have. Plus an MT is traditionally cheaper and these days price point seems to be more of a driving force than style or features. Plus I don't know the European market all that well, it is definitely different than the American market. I will have to dig up a Nissan article I read yesterday about the Euro market.

[Saint_]

My sister has a nissan micra in EU. 1.2L version of micra has 80hp with AT and AC. It is an excellent car for tight parking spaces, stop&go traffic and fuel efficiency. It is very weak but who cares.. AT should be an option if they plan to sell a lot, but if they plan to sell like milly... anyways...

I like the keyless stuff on micra. You just carry the key (some RFID) in your pocket. When you get closer to the door, it unlocks. You get in and start the car (key still in the pocket). Then you get off and close the door and when you are far enough it locks itself

I wonder if an AT would kill what little power the 2 might have. Plus an MT is traditionally cheaper and these days price point seems to be more of a driving force than style or features. Plus I don't know the European market all that well, it is definitely different than the American market. I will have to dig up a Nissan article I read yesterday about the Euro market.[/b]

[drkhwy1]

Here's the Nissan Article regarding Euro marketing.

Nissan to change Shift tagline

[millyowner]

B-market means the car is built to a price. Probably no air bags, no side impact protection, no power windows or locks. Probably no power steering...definately no costly automatic transmission. If it has an illuminated glove compartment, consider it a bonus. Think cheap euro city car that would sell for $4000 US dollars if it weren't for the lack of safety equipment keeping them off US roads. The 1.4L diesel probably takes 16 seconds to 60mph...something no one here could live with.

[Duncan]

Want pics? I got pics...





















More photos next post...

[Duncan]

Personally, I think the front end looks good. And the usual signs of cost-cutting do not seem to be evident in the interior - it's chock full of nice textures and fabrics, at least from what the photos show.

Would be nice to see the car in something other than green, though...