2011 Mazda2 at 2009 L.A. Auto Show

• Competes with: Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, Hyundai Accent
• Looks like: A European-styled Japanese car that might work in America
• Drivetrain: 1.5-liter four-cylinder with five-speed manual or four-speed automatic
• Hits dealerships: Summer 2010

We’ve been introduced to the Mazda2 many times before as versions have been scooting around the globe since 2007. The U.S. finally sees what it gets from a small Mazda at the L.A. Auto Show. Stylistically, the Americanized Mazda2 gets a subtle smiling lower bumper, an element shared on all new Mazdas.

The interior looks relatively upscale for the class, much like the Mazda3.

However, the company didn’t reveal performance figures in terms of horsepower or mileage. All we know about what will power the Mazda2 is that it’s a 1.5-liter four-cylinder teamed to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. We’d guess it will not return the exceptional mileage of the Ford Fiesta, which can reach 38 mpg or 40 mpg highway, depending on the trim.

Mazda, however, trumpeted the “zoom-zoom” aspect of how fun the Mazda2 will be to drive. It better be if it doesn’t deliver on mileage, especially at this size.

Comments

i dunno y they changed the kewl looking Euro taillights 2 this?? Interior doesn't look as nice as Fiesta. rear end reminds me a bit of the Yaris.

4 speed auto? your joking right? thats SOOO 90s just kidding but really a 4 speed arent we in a time for 6's?

Looks like a Toyota Matrix.

Looks nice and if it handles as well as my Mazda, it should do well.:)

A four-speed auto with a 1.5l engine isn't going to "zoom zoom" anything unless it's turbocharged. What decade are we in?

Looks much better than the Fiesta

I agree with J. Exterior better then Fiesta's but interior and function - not.
Fiesta wins

segfault,

forget zoom zoom. Get ready for Tata Nano as major mode of transportation. With speed cameras, pay per mile taxes, war tax, medical crisis and shortage of drinking water and super-expensive food and gas that await for you in the near future, zoom-zoom is the last thing that should worry you.

What is the seating position like in this car? Is it like the Honda Fit? Or do you "drop" into the seat more?

will prefer to drive this than a yaris or accent.