Spy Shots of New Mazda2 as it Nears Closer to Production

This past March Mazda unveiled the Hazumi concept car, which signaled the design direction of the next generation Mazda2.

It’s now clear that the car is moving closer to reality since a camoflaged version was spotted testing in central Europe earlier this week.  Despite the attempts to hide the cars shape, it is clear that the production car will mimic the concept closely.

As we would expect, the 20-inch wheels from the concept will not carry over.  Instead, it is likely that the car will get 16 inch wheels standard as shown in the spy shot.  The intricate mirrors from the concept will also get replaced in favor of more production friendly units.    We expect the new Mazda2 to get the full Skactiv treatment including lightweight construction and highly efficient engines.  Although Europe will get an uber efficient 1.5 liter Skactiv diesel, we expect to see 1.5 liter gasoline engine in the states.  The engine is expected to deliver right around right around 100 horsepower and will be coupled to a six-speed manual.  Engine stop-start technology will be employed to maximize efficiency as well as Mazda’s i-ELOOP hybrid technology.

The production Mazda2 will be revealed later this year at the Paris Auto Show, although we don’t expect the car to hit our shores until next summer.