New 2008 Mazda 2 / Demio Video

Back in March, we uploaded the first promo video of Mazda’s new subcompact hatch that’ll go on sale in Europe this autumn. Thanks to our “Français” pals at Le Blog Auto, we have a second video of the all-important ’08 Mazda2 that will also find its way to Japan, Australia, China and other markets but not the U.S.

Youthful design aside, the most intriguing aspect on the ’08 Mazda2 (also known as Demio in Japan and other markets) is that for the first time ever, a new Mazda is lighter than the model it replaces. According to the Japanese carmaker, the Mazda2 is approximately 100 kg (220 lbs) lighter than its predecessor weighing in at less than 1,000 kg (2,200 lbs). Even if that’s partially due to the new Mazda2’s reduced overall length and lower roofline, still, it’s admirable. -Click "Read More..." below to see the video

Via: Le Blog Auto

Mazda Announces Biggest Domestic Recall: Over 280.000 Demios & Verisas Affected

In what looks to be one of Mazda’s biggest domestic vehicle recalls, the Japanese car manufacture announced that 287,987 Demio and Verisa models produced between June 2002 and July 2006 are to be recalled due to defect clutch systems and coil springs in suspensions. According to Mazda spokeswoman Aya Takahashi, this is the firm’s largest domestic recall since data started being monitored in 1994. Mazda previous "record" was for 162,405 vehicles in March 2004. Additionally, apart from the 287,987 Demios & Verisas sold in Japan, another 25,559 Demios sold in overseas markets as Mazda2 were are also affected. From these 20,850 went to Australia, 1,166 to New Zealand, 1,147 to Singapore and 262 to Hong Kong. Via: detnews

Technorati: Mazda, Mazda+Demio, Mazda+Verisa, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

Mazda2 - Demio: 2008 JDM Version Gets New Naturally-Aspirated 1.3-liter Miller-cycle Engine

Rotar powered engines isn’t the only abandoned by others technology that Mazda continues to invest in. The Japanese firm also believes in the Miller-cycle tech developing a brand-new, naturally aspirated MZR 1.3-liter Miller-cycle engine for the 2008 Demio (known as the Mazda2 in overseas markets) when it goes on sale in Japan in July 2007. According to Mazda, the Miller-cycle engine powered Demio will be combined the firm’s first continuously variable transmission (CVT), achieving an avg. fuel consumption figure of 4.3 liters/100 -54.7 mpg (US). That’s a 20% improvement over the 5.2 liters/100 km - 45.2 mpg rating of the current model. As you can see in the press release that follows, Mazda hasn’t given out any power or performance figures.

But what exactly is a Miller-cycle engine? First of all, the name for the Miller-cycle engine was invented by an American engineer, Ralph Miller who patented his version of the forced induction Otto-cycle petrol engine in the 1940s. A traditional Otto cycle petrol engine uses four "strokes", of which two can be considered "high power" – the compression stroke (high power consumption) and power stroke (high power production). In the Miller cycle, the intake valve is left open longer than it would be in an Otto cycle engine. In effect, the compression stroke is two discrete cycles: the initial portion when the intake valve is open and final portion when the intake valve is closed. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below

This two-stage intake stroke creates the so called "fifth" cycle that the Miller cycle introduces. As the piston initially moves upwards in what is traditionally the compression stroke, the charge is partially expelled back out the still-open intake valve. Typically this loss of charge air would result in a loss of power. However, in the Miller cycle, this is compensated for by the use of a supercharger. The supercharger typically will need to be of the positive displacement type due its ability to produce boost at relatively low engine speeds. Otherwise, low-rpm torque will suffer. That does raise a few questions on the Demio’s naturally aspirated 1.3-liter Miller-cycle engine doesn’t it? (Miller-cycle engine info via: Wikipedia)

Technorati: Mazda, Mazda+Demio, Mazda2, cars, Carscoop, cars, autos, vehicles

PRESS RELEASE: Mazda Develops New Naturally-Aspirated MZR 1.3L Miller-cycle Engine

- The new MZR 1.3L engine powers the all-new Mazda Demio to achieve a fuel economy of 23.0 km/L and qualify for Japan's Green Tax exemptions -

HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation has developed a new, naturally aspirated MZR 1.3L Miller-cycle engine, which will power the all-new Demio (known as the all-new Mazda2 in overseas markets) when it goes on sale in Japan in July 2007. In combination with Mazda’s first continuously variable transmission (CVT), the engine will assist the new Demio to achieve a 10-15 mode fuel economy of 23.0 km/L, an improvement of approximately 20 percent over the 19.2 km/L rating of the current model.

Newly developed from the current MZR 1.3L DOHC aluminum engine, the naturally-aspirated MZR 1.3L Miller-cycle engine employs delayed closing of the intake valves in order to reduce pumping losses and improve thermal efficiency through a higher expansion ratio. Intake valve timing is optimized by the Sequential Valve Timing System to provide improved fuel efficiency over the current MZR 1.3L engine when cruising and accelerating. In conjunction with the CVT, which transfers torque at low speeds without power loss and eliminates gear-shift shock, the setup achieves excellent fuel efficiency as well as a smooth and exhilarating ride.

In addition to this new, highly efficient powertrain, the all-new Demio has been made approximately 100 kg lighter than its predecessor through weight reduction techniques, which have resulted in nimble handling and significantly improved fuel economy.

The Demio model with the naturally aspirated MZR 1.3L Miller-cycle engine combined with the CVT transmission achieves a fuel economy that is rated as 20 percent or better than the level specified by Japan’s 2010 fuel economy standards. Exhaust emissions are also at least 75 percent lower than 2005 standards, which conforms to Japan’s Super Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (SU-LEV) standard and qualifies the Demio for Green Tax exemptions.

Through its Sustainable Zoom-Zoom plan that was announced in March 2007, Mazda declared its intention to pursue the harmony felt between driving pleasure and environmental and safety features, and its quest for an advanced Zoom-Zoom world. This includes the ongoing desire to create captivating design, to provide our customers with continual driving pleasure and to develop improved safety and environmental technologies.

2008 Mazda2: Chinese version to be produced at Nanjing

During a pre-show media event at the Shanghai International Motor Show today (April 19, 2007) Mazda announced that the Chinese version of its it all-new Mazda2 will be produced at the Changan Ford Mazda Automobile Co., Ltd. (CFMA) plant in Nanjing. Although there’re no photos out yet, Mazda claims that it has specifically developed the Nanjing-made Mazda2 model to suit the tastes of the Chinese market –whatever that means… The Nanjing plant will have an annual capacity of 160,000 units and the first Chinese Mazda2 will roll-off production lines by the end of 2007. (Photo: Euro-spec Mazda2).

Technorati: Mazda, Mazda2, China, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, autos, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, images, pictures

2008 Mazda2 - Demio Video including driving & static shots

The promo video gives us a real life example of what we can expect from the all-new Mazda2 - Demio in Europe and Japan later this year. It'll also make its apperence in the US beginning in 2008. And since vids are almost always more entertaining than pics, this one was worth the time to find. But, in the name of all that is holy... ixnay on the color-ay.

Technorati: Mazda2, Mazda+Demio, Geneva+Motor+Show, Video, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007

2008 Mazda2 – Mazda Demio official image gallery breaks cover prior to Geneva debut

UPDATE: 2008 MAZDA2 - DEMIO VIDEO

Well, to be honest, not much of a leak this time as only a couple of days remain before the all-new Mazda2 aka Mazda Demio in Japan, debuts at the 77th Geneva Motor Show. Unlike the current model whose conservative looks (unsuccessfully) balance between a semi-mini-mpv and a compact hatch, the new Mazda2 / Demio takes on a modern, you could even say a sporty approach to the mini-segment. That’s even more obvious in the versions fitted with the “Sports Appearance Package”. As you can see by the grey colored car in the pics, this pack adds a new front bumper with a wider and opposite angled air intake, a different grille, side skirts, a roof spoiler and larger alloys. Personally I like it however, I can’t help seeing some Toyota Yaris in it, but maybe that’s just me. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see the rest of the article plus a high-res image gallery

Despite the dark-colored interior trim of the car shown here, it’s obvious that Mazda designers wanted to create a “playful” environment for the Mazda2 – Demio. Maybe a bit too playful as the center console with the side air-vents looks like “Mickey-Mouse”, but ok, I definitely prefer this interior than the boring-to-death cabin of the current model.

There’s no official (full-length) press release out yet, but as noted in a previous post, we found a more analytical German press release on the car revealing that the 3.880 mm long and 1.690 mm wide Mazda2 –Demio will be offered in the beginning with three newly developed petrol engines: 1.3-liter producing 55 kW/75 HP and 62 kW/84 HP as well as a 1.5-liter with an output of 76 kW/103 HP. The new Mazda2 – Demio will go on sale in Europe in the summer with other markets following later on the year (the US will probably get it in 2008).

PRESS RELEASE: The All-New Mazda2 -Compact, Lightweight and Fun

- Mazda2, the first Zoom-Zoom choice

- Eye-catching and dynamic design

- Superior fuel economy through lightness and compactness

Mazda Motor Corporation has always used the Geneva Motor Show as a venue for important global premieres and this year is no exception with the first showing anywhere of the all-new Mazda2. More than simply a model update, Mazda’s new B-car has been redesigned from the ground up and is the first of Mazda’s acclaimed new-generation line up to be evolved. It delivers a superior package of attributes that will appeal to a growing global market for sub-compact cars.

Zoom-Zoom – Mazda began using this expression with the launch of its first new-generation model, the Mazda6, in 2002. It expresses the love of motion and is used by children to imitate the sound of an engine. And it has always been more than merely a brand slogan. It describes Mazda’s ultimate goal: to provide customers, who never forgot the love of motion they felt in childhood, with an exhilarating driving experience.

Now, Mazda is unveiling the all-new Mazda2 at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show. The new Mazda2 is not just a model change from the current Mazda2, but the first of Mazda’s new-generation line up to evolve to the next stage. It reflects not only Zoom-Zoom passion, but also a range of capabilities refined in a severely competitive environment using input from customer feedback around the globe. The aim was to further refine Mazda’s DNA — distinctive design, exceptional functionality, and responsive handling and performance — while enhancing driving quality attributes such as ride comfort and quietness and meeting global environmental and safety performance standards. The all- new Mazda2 represents an evolution of Zoom-Zoom. With this new model, Mazda aims at strengthening the Mazda brand and further expanding its presence in the global B- car segment , especially in Europe, where the segment has grown by around 10% in the last six years and where more than one car in four is a B-car.

In developing the new Mazda2, Mazda took a fresh look at the global sub-compact car market, where there is intense competition among many diverse brands and vehicles, and worked to identify the truly important attributes for a global B-car. These attributes include superior fuel efficiency , which is crucial for low running costs and reduction of CO 2 emissions; easy-to-drive functionality and operability; Mazda’s unique dynamic performance , which delivers enjoyable, comfortable driving; and a design that instantly grabs attention. While many other carmakers have enlarged their small cars, Mazda was able to reduce the size of its B-car with the new Mazda2 (-40 mm now at 3885 mm) and still meet the mainstream demands of sub-compact customers while enhancing safety .

A Dynamic Design to Attract Customers Worldwide

With the look of the new Mazda2, Mazda’s mission was to embody its next-generation design direction in a way that would appeal to a wide range of people in many global markets. Given that customer preferences differ from market to market, Mazda considered various design directions with a view to satisfying all the diverse expectations. Designers then refined the findings of the study in pursuit of an exquisite and dynamic design with a distinctive Mazda identity. Blending sharp contours with clear expressions of gentleness, they created a look that has global appeal.

Design Concept – Exquisite and Dynamic

With the goal of expressing refined dynamism, the designers further evolved the look of athletic movement that characterizes Mazda’s DNA. At the same time, they worked to create forms that would convey a sense of precision in line with the Japanese appreciation of simplicity of form and objects that are beautiful because of their simplicity. The key to the new look was a design concept described by the design team as ‘exquisite and dynamic’. Here, ‘exquisite’ denotes the designer’s desire for the design to possess forms that express beauty and a carefully considered dynamism. Designers and modellers scrutinized each line, contour, and other design expression in line with their vision of dynamism, even taking into account the relationship between the car’s exterior look and the space-efficiency of the cabin. This discriminating approach gave the exterior and interior of the new Mazda2 a dynamic character that’s immediately recognizable.

Some of the design elements were first publicly seen in the Mazda SASSOU design concept model that debuted to great acclaim at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show. In line with the positive feedback from Frankfurt, the designers carried them forward and refined them for the production model.

An Exterior Design with Dynamic, Multifaceted Expressions

In line with an exterior design theme of ‘coordinated movements’, the visual movements created by the car’s silhouette, the lines of the body, and the patterns of light over the body were combined to create dynamic, multifaceted expressions not typically seen on a B-car. The resulting exterior design exudes a powerful energy that makes the new Mazda2 look as though it’s about to move even when it’s parked. Expressing dynamic movement within the body’s limited dimensions was a major design challenge. For those looking for an even sportier look, a Sports Appearance Package is available (depending on market).

By pursuing beauty in the transitions between each expression of movement, the design team realized forms that have natural-looking visual movements and convey subtle craftsmanship. The diversity of visual expressions — the body has sharp lines but also conveys softness and gentleness, and it has flowing lines but also conveys a sense of solidity — is a unique attribute achieved by following the ‘coordinated movements’ design theme .

An Emotionally Appealing Interior Design Conveying Dynamism and Nimbleness

Mazda2’s interior design theme was ‘a space that communicates movement’. Whereas most B-segment cabins have monotonous design treatments with flat surfaces, the interior design team made the new Mazda2’s cabin strikingly different through contoured forms that combine reassuring thickness with strong visual movement .

The instrument panel helps to create a sense of space despite the cabin’s compact dimensions; its design creates lateral visual movement from the centre toward the base of the pillar on each side by means of a recess that runs from side to side between the instrument panel’s upper and lower sections. At the same time, the instrument panel’s middle area has a substantial form that communicates a unique character. A contrast between silver accents on a black keynote colour adds further sportiness and individuality to the cabin. Plus, distinctive circular details contribute to a fresh, emotionally appealing look and feel.

Pursuit of Functionality and Operability Required in a B-Car

Most B-segment car buyers want a day-to-day means of getting around and running errands, so it’s vital for a car of this size to be easy to drive and easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces such as car parks. With the new Mazda2, functionality and operability were improved in various ways based on driver-focused ideas and in line with how a B-car is actually used.

Making the All-New Mazda2 Driver-Friendly for Everyone

The design of the Mazda2’s shoulder line, which is angled significantly downward toward the front of the car, is complemented by low mounting points for the door mirrors to afford the driver good downward visibility toward the front and sides. The good visibility makes turning into and driving on narrow roads and looking past the door mirrors to check for pedestrians when turning at junctions all the easier. Furthermore, the new Mazda2 has superior driver-seat adjustability, which is combined with an ergonomic design in which the position of the gear lever is higher for easier shifting.

Ample, Smartly Conceived Storage with No Compromises on Space

When designing the cabin, items young drivers would be likely to have in their cars were also considered and the interior team redesigned storage spaces – such as the glove box and floor console – based on these findings. For instance, the new glove box features a magazine rack that allows users to access travel guidebooks and road atlases without having to open the glove box itself. Also, the floor console between the front seats has a large rear tray stable enough for storing handbags and other personal items. A 60:40-split rear seat (depending on grades) guarantees convenience and luggage space to meet daily needs. There is a total of 250 litres of luggage space.

The Zoom-Zoom Driving Experience that’s Unique to Mazda

Performance that gives the driver confidence is essential for true driving enjoyment. So the new Mazda2 exceeds conventional levels of dynamic performance with agile but stable handling, high body rigidity, strong stopping power, a confidence-inspiring brake feel, and comfort-enhancing quietness. Plus, the new Mazda2 has a comprehensive powertrain line up that combines superior fuel economy with enjoyment and driveability.

Environmental Compatibility with Zoom-Zoom Performance

Mazda is serious about improving fuel efficiency as a way to reduce CO 2 emissions and other exhaust gases that place a burden on the environment. So the new Mazda2 minimizes weight as a means of increasing fuel economy. Even before full-fledged development of the car was under way, a special team was busy devising weight-saving techniques using the latest computer-aided engineering technologies. The team incorporated these techniques into prototype vehicles and conducted evaluations of the resulting low weight on dynamic performance, ultimately achieving significant weight savings together with superior Zoom- Zoom driving enjoyment. Through measures that included body-structure optimization and increased use of high- tensile steel, engineers not only made the new Mazda2 about 100 kg lighter than its predecessor , they also achieved major improvements in terms of safety, body rigidity, and noise, vibration, and harshness — all attributes that conventionally mean more weight. With the additional benefits of enhanced powertrain technologies and aerodynamic performance, the new Mazda2 delivers some of the best fuel economy in its segment (up to about 15%* better than the previous model). Underpinning the weight-saving technologies in the new Mazda2 is a new platform that reflects Mazda’s expertise in the development of small cars.

* Depending on model

Brisk Handling and a Stable, Quiet Ride

With the new Mazda2’s chassis, engineers pursued superior dynamic performance through brisk, nimble handling, through stability that inspires confidence even at motorway speeds, and through a ride that’s quiet and feels steady but mild. The lightness and rigidity of the body played an important role in maximizing handling and ride quality. With regard to handling, engineers targeted manoeuvrability and agility on urban roads, brisk, linear steering response and high grip on winding roads, and superior straight-line stability and confidence-inspiring lane-change behaviour on motorways.

To help achieve these targets, various grades of high-tensile steel sheeting give the body superior local rigidity. The light, highly rigid body shell also ensures optimal geometry in the car’s MacPherson-strut front suspension and H-type torsion- beam rear suspension, whatever the driving conditions.

Efficiency

The new Mazda2 will be launched initially with two petrol engines: the MZR 1.3-litre DOHC (standard and high-power derivatives depending on market) and MZR 1.5-litre DOHC. For the European market, a fuel-efficient, clean-running MZ- CD 1.4-litre diesel engine will be introduced a few months later. Each engine combines the superior fuel economy expected in a sub-compact car with a lively performance feel that’s pure Zoom-Zoom.

The 1.3-litre DOHC and 1.5-litre DOHC MZR petrol engines each have a sequential valve timing system and optimized exhaust-valve timing, which together realize superior cylinder-charging efficiency at all engine speeds. The 1.5-litre DOHC engine additionally has a variable induction system , which ensures smooth, strong torque delivery throughout the rev range. These technologies ensure highly controllable, linear acceleration and brisk throttle response, so drivers in everyday situations can enjoy the lively engine performance that’s a hallmark of Mazda.

Superb Active and Passive Safety

A fundamental requirement for safety is dynamic performance that allows the driver to confidently control the car in exact accordance with his or her intentions. So the all-new Mazda2 has handling that realizes predictable steering response and superior straight-line stability and a braking system that consistently delivers linear braking force in response to pedal inputs. For customers in Europe and Australia, dynamic stability control is available as an option, that further enhances active safety by helping to control side slip. For passive safety in the new Mazda2, an evolution of the unique, high-rigidity, high-safety Mazda Advanced Impact Distribution and Absorption System body structure realizes superior crash resistance by dispersing impact energy throughout the car in the event of an impact from any direction. The body structure is complemented by dual front airbags as standard, with front side airbags and curtain airbags available on option. Also, the bonnet, fenders, and wipers are designed to help minimize injuries in the event of contact with a pedestrian.

Conclusion – small and friendly with plenty of Zoom-Zoom

The all-new Mazda2 is an urban vehicle that’s comfortable and safe to drive, with a strong element of Zoom-Zoom fun thrown in. While being affordable and inexpensive to run with excellent fuel economy, it delivers virtually the same level of Zoom-Zoom fun as Mazda’s larger vehicles. It’s a delight to drive, a joy to own, fun to use, and the most personable car in Mazda’s line up. For the development of this all-new model, the perspective was broadened from a Japanese one to a global viewpoint. Mazda is confident that the Mazda2 will earn the respect of many customers and that it will strengthen and expand the presence of the Mazda brand in sub-compact car markets. The new Mazda2 will be produced in Japan.

All-New Mazda2 Preliminary Specifications (for Europe)

Dimensions Overall length 3885 mm
Overall width 1695 mm
Overall height 1475 mm
Wheelbase 2490 mm
Tread (front / rear) 1475 mm / 1465 mm
(for 14- & 15-inch tyres)
1465 mm / 1455 mm
(for 16-inch tyre)
Seating capacity 5 people
Boot volume 250 l
Engine Type MZR 1.3-litre: In-line,
4-cylinder petrol engine
MZR 1.5-litre: In-line,
4-cylinder petrol engine
Max. output Target MZR 1.3-litre:
55 kW (75 PS) / 6000 rpm
(standard power)
62 kW (84 PS) / 6000 rpm
(high power)
MZR 1.5-litre:
76 kW (103 PS) / 6000 rpm
Max. torque Target MZR 1.3-litre:
118 Nm (12.0 kgm) / 3500 rpm
(standard power)
121 Nm (12.3 kgm) / 3500 rpm
(high power)
MZR 1.5-litre:
136 Nm (13.9 kgm) / 4000 rpm
Transmission Type 5-speed manual
Suspension Type (front / rear) MacPherson strut /
torsion beam
Brakes Type (front/rear) Ventilated discs /
leading-and-trailing drums
Tyres 175/65R14
185/55R15
195/45R16
Wheels 14-inch steel wheels
15-inch steel & aluminium wheels
16-inch aluminium wheels
Top speed* Preliminary 186 km/h (1.5-litre)
Curb weight* Preliminary 954 kg (1.3-litre)
Fuel
consumption* Preliminary 5.4 L/100 km (1.3-litre)

* Mazda measurement

All figures and other specifications in this press kit may vary according to market. Also, data are subject to change upon homologation.

UPDATE: 2008 Mazda2 – Mazda Demio extra images & specs

UPDATE: Full Image Gallery here

Looks like Mazda didn’t reveal just one teaser pic after all as we discovered a couple more images of the 2008 Mazda2 / Demio on Automotorundsport. We checked out all of Mazda’s European press sites and we didn’t find these images so I’m guessing that AMS got the special treatment… At least our site-tour wasn’t for nothing us we also discovered a second press-release in German which reveals that the Mazda2 will be offered initially with three petrol engines: 1.3-litres with 75Hp & 84Hp and 1.5 with 103Hp. Via: AMS & Mazda -Continued: Click “Read More...” below to see the official German press release

GERMAN PRESS RELEASE: NEUER KOMPAKTWAGEN ENTWICKELT ZOOM-ZOOM-GEDANKEN WEITER

• Neuer Kompaktwagen entwickelt Zoom-Zoom-Gedanken weiter

• Geringer Benzinverbrauch durch weniger Gewicht

• Zur Markteinführung mit drei Benzin-Motoren

Premierenbühne Genfer Automobilsalon (8.-18. März): Der neue Mazda2 feiert seine Weltpremiere in den Messehallen des Genfer Palexpo. Entgegen dem allgemeinen Trend ist er leichter und kompakter als sein Vorgänger. Der etwa 3,88 Meter lange und etwa 1,69 Meter breite neue Mazda2 bietet aber zugleich mehr Sicherheit, Fahrspaß sowie ein charismatischeres Design – und das bei geringerem Benzinverbrauch. Damit hat er auch in der aktuellen Diskussion um Kraftstoffverbrauch und CO2-Emission die Nase vorn.

Beim neuen Mazda2 handelt es sich nicht um einen einfachen Modellwechsel, sondern um das erste Produkt einer weiterentwickelten Generation von Mazda Automobilen. Diese neue Generation führt den Zoom-Zoom-Gedanken weiter fort, der erstmalig 2002 mit dem Mazda6 eingeführt wurde.

Zur Markteinführung erscheint der neue Mazda2 in Deutschland mit drei neu entwickelten Benzin-Motoren: Einem 1,3 Liter mit 55 kW/75 PS und 62 kW/84 PS sowie einem 1,5 Liter mit 76 kW/103 PS.

Technorati : Mazda2, Geneva+Motor+Show, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, autos, Carscoop, blogs, images, pictures, 2007

Geneva Preview: All-New Mazda2 – Mazda Demio

Just received Mazda’s Geneva press release in my mail this morning. Well to be accurate it’s more of a teaser but at least Mazda had the courtesy to add a picture where we get a glimpse of the all-new Mazda2 which is called Mazda Demio in Japan. According to the “Spartan” press release, the new Mazda2 is more than just a new model as it’s also the first vehicle in Mazda’s line up to take the “Zoom-Zoom” philosophy to the next level –whatever that means. Anyhow, design-wise the new Mazda2 looks a whole lot more intriguing than the current boxy bread-van. We’ll have more on the new Mazda2 which will also base the next generation Ford Fiesta later on. -Continued: Click “Read More...” below to see the official press release

Technorati : Mazda2, Geneva+Motor+Show, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, autos, Carscoop, blogs, images, pictures, 2007

PRESS RELEASE: ALL-NEW MAZDA2 TO DEBUT AT THE 2007 GENEVA INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW

Hiroshima, Japan, 13th February 2007. Mazda Motor Corporation will showcase the world premiere of the all-new Mazda2 (known as the Mazda Demio in Japan) at the 77th annual Geneva International Motor Show to be held from Tuesday, 6 March through Sunday, 18 March 2007. Officially titled the Salon International de l’Auto de Genève, the Geneva Motor show press days are March 6 and 7, and the public days are March 8-18. Mazda will hold its press conference on Tuesday, 6 March at 14:15 CET.

The all-new Mazda2 is more than just a model freshening of the current Mazda2. In 2002, the Mazda6 heralded the arrival of Mazda’s new generation of Zoom-Zoom vehicles, and now the Mazda2 becomes the first of these to evolve to the next level. As such, the new Mazda2 represents the progression of Mazda’s Zoom-Zoom brand promise.