The Mazda2 is one of the best small cars available in the US – or anywhere – with playful dynamics and first-rate quality that shames the Mitsubishi Mirage in many ways.

But the current car has largely missed the hot style wave of the latest Lazda6 and Mazda3. That is set to change with the just-revealed 2016 model. It is a sure thing for the US market, but its arrival timetable is not yet known. We would bet on the first few months of 2015 as a 2016 model, but it could be here as soon as this Fall.

The sharp new nose design sees a more bold grille outline and LED-accented headlights that continue the grille into the bodysides. It looks outstanding.

Perhaps even more impressive is the high-quality cabin that moves its design forward versus the Mazda3 and Mazda6 – which have faced some comments that the interiors do not measure up to the amazing dynamics, style and efficiency of the rest of the package. This is especially true of the Mazda6; less so for the Mazda3. The new look is a smooth and relaxing solid dash panel and controls in a central media knob in the console. Very premium and appealing.

2016 Mazda2

 

 

ALL-NEW 2016 MAZDA2 MAKES GLOBAL DEBUT

Fourth-Generation Sub-Compact Begins Production in Japan

 

IRVINE, Calif. (July 16, 2014) – The all-new 2016 Mazda2 was today unveiled in Japan by Mazda Motor Corporation (MC).  Mazda’s sub-compact entry, known as the Demio in Japan, receives its first complete redesign since its global third-generation launch seven years ago.  Based on the HAZUMI concept, which debuted at the Geneva Auto Show in March, this all-new fourth-generation vehicle is outfitted with the full suite of SKYACTIV®[1] technologies and “KODO: Soul of Motion” design language to match its larger siblings the Mazda3 compact car, Mazda6 mid-size sedan and CX-5 compact SUV.  The 2016 Mazda2 also features additional in-vehicle and safety technology with MAZDA CONNECT™ and i-ACTIVSENSE, respectively.

The 2016 Mazda2 will begin rolling out to global markets from Japan’s Hofu plant starting this fall.  For the Japanese market, the vehicle will be available with a SKYACTIV-G 1.3-liter gasoline engine and a SKYACTIV-D 1.5-liter clean diesel engine.  More information on specifications for other global markets, including the U.S., will be released closer to its on-sale date in those respective regions.

With more than 2.4 million units sold worldwide, the Mazda2 is the best-selling vehicle in Japan.  First introduced in 1996, a second generation followed in 2002 with the third-generation model being released in 2007.  The Mazda2 was not available in the U.S. market until the third generation as a 2011 model.

About Mazda North American Operations

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States and Mexico through nearly 700 dealers.  Operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.