mazda2 Archives | AutoDepot

Filed under: Budget, Hatchback, Mazda, Reviews

Mazda Perfects the Fun-to-Footprint Ratio

2011 Mazda2

2011 Mazda2 – Click above for high-res image gallery

Bigger used to mean better, but in the modern era, that old chestnut no longer applies. Mobile phones aren’t the size of a brick, we can fit 2,000 songs in our pocket and this review was written on a computer that fits neatly on an airplane’s tray table. Sometimes smaller is better, and here’s a vehicle that proves it.

While the 2011 Mazda2 might not be out to redefine the subcompact segment, it does offer something largely lacking from the rest of the pack: fun. But are Mazda’s Zoom-Zoom driving dynamics enough to overlook its shortcomings in power, packaging and amenities? Find out after the jump.

Gallery: 2011 Mazda2: Review

2011 Mazda2

Continue reading Review: 2011 Mazda2

Review: 2011 Mazda2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Jan 2011 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Continue reading “Review: 2011 Mazda2”

Filed under: Budget, Hatchback, Mazda

2011 Mazda2

2011 Mazda2 – Click above for high-res image gallery

We’re big fans of the 2011 Mazda2, but of all the good things this little hatch has going for it, fuel economy isn’t really one of them. Manual transmission models offer 29/35 miles per gallon city/highway, and while that isn’t terrible by any means, it’s sub-par when you consider the new standard for B- and C-segment cars: 40 mpg.

With the next-generation 2, Mazda plans to completely overhaul the powertrain, using its new SKYACTIV engine and transmission technology. The result is a Mazda2 that the automaker says will achieve 70 mpg without the help of an electric motor, making it the most fuel-efficient gas-powered car on the road.

The next Mazda2 will launch in Japan sometime in the first half of 2011 and will quickly make its way to other markets over the next few years. The 2 may be an all-new entry to the United States, but it’s merely a mid-cycle refresh of the car that’s been on sale overseas for years. We’re certainly eager to see what the Japanese automaker has up its sleeve, and while 70 mpg is indeed a lofty goal, it isn’t too far fetched these days.

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Mazda2

[Source: Reuters]

Report: Next Mazda2 to be world’s most efficient gas vehicle originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Oct 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Continue reading “Report: Next Mazda2 to be world’s most efficient gas vehicle”