First look: a stiffer, more frugal Mazda2

MAZDA has launched a revised Mazda2 microhatch in Japan and will make it available in Australia by July.

Boasting a stiffer body and mildly redesigned front-end, the new 2 will offer five per cent better fuel economy from its 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, which now meets tough Euro Step III emissions requirements.

Power and torque remain at 85kW and 141Nm respectively, but mechanical revisions have improved torque delivery below 3000rpm, while an electronicthrottle provides a more linear acceleration feel. The car has also adopted electric power steering.

Automatic models will come with Mazda’s Activematic manual shift control function. The cabin remains largely unchanged except for some minor trim changes.

The New colors include Iris Blue mica, Mocha mica, Carbon Grey mica and the limited-availability Blazing Yellow Pearl Mica - exclusive to Genki, which also gains a revised grille and smoke-coloured rear lighting.

Maxx and Genki models will now come with a retractable ‘flip’ key.