Mazda2 (2015)

The Mazda2 city car is the fourth production car to be designed using the firm's Kodo form language. As with the CX-5, Mazda3 and Mazda6, it also gets the full set of Skyactiv chassis, engine and transmission technologies that are designed to help distinguish Mazda's products in the crowded mainstream segments in which it competes.

There's strong continuity between models - the new 2 features the now-familiar long hood, overhanging nose, bulging front fenders and upkicked beltline used on the larger cars.

To suit this latest, smaller application of the form language, there's now a body-colored strip in the grille. Although downsized, the grille now has seven sides rather than five, while the chrome trim that runs beneath it is more substantial than on the larger 3.

This still runs into the lamps, as per the larger Mazdas, but these are now a little larger, with softer edges. Combined with the fog lamps that are smaller and have moved in-board, and the 2's face appears less overtly aggressive than the 3, although a little more focussed than the big grin of the outgoing model.

The new model is similar in profile to its predecessor, although the tail is faster. At the rear, the 2 shows influence from Alfa Romeo's MiTo, particularly with the shape of the rear screen, and the license-plate holder.

Inside, the Mazda looks to Audi's A1 and A3 for inspiration, with a clean IP broken up by large, circular air vents, and a trio of HVAC controls in the center stack. The center screen, head-up display and gauge pack are descended from the Mazda3.

We'll get our first chance to see the Mazda2 at the Paris motor show in October. The car goes on sale in Japan as the Demio in the fall, and in Europe in late 2014.

Mazda2 gallery >

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