The new Mazda2 bets on design and lightweight construction. The 105 hp diesel engine announces consumption of 3.4 l/100 km.
Triple dose for Mazda in this edition of the Essilor Car of the Year/Crystal Wheel Trophy. The Japanese manufacturer has entered three models in this election, demonstrating the vitality of a product cycle with which it intends to attack different segments of the European market.For the B-segment – that of city dwellers – the ram is the new Mazda2, which incorporates SKYACTIV technology and the KODO design philosophy, common to the brand's new models. It is a compact model that receives a new platform with a longer wheelbase, with shorter overhangs that provide additional space for passengers and mechanics , improving stability and passive safety.
Driving dynamics was one of Mazda's main concerns, which turned to lightweight construction materials and various weight-saving solutions. Aerodynamics and torsional rigidity have been substantially improved to make the Mazda2 more efficient, agile and economical.
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The SKYACTIV chassis is designed to offer greater driving pleasure and refined dynamic handling and includes elements such as “a lighter and stiffer suspension, with optimized geometry and improved shock absorbers” which includes for the first time in the brand's models friction control in the shock absorbers.
To combine agility and dynamic response with low fuel consumption, Mazda uses a complete and renewed range of engines, with an emphasis on the new SKYACTIV-D 1.5 Diesel block, a 105 hp engine that, according to Mazda, guarantees low consumption and emissions – average of 3.4 l/100 km and emissions of 89 g/km. The competition version combines this engine with a six-speed manual gearbox.
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Passive and active safety was another key theme in the development of the new Mazda2 which integrates a series of unusual equipment in this segment, such as the Hill Launch Assist – which brakes the vehicle, preventing the vehicle from falling over when starting on an inclined plane, or the High Beam Control – system that automatically adjusts the height of the headlamps, going through an autonomous emergency braking system or the four-lamp full LED optics.
Connectivity and functionality are, according to Mazda, ensured by a set of systems that improve the driver's interactivity with the technology.
The Active Driving Display system “projects the most important driving data directly into the driver's field of vision in real time while the other driving information appears in the new, sportier cluster. “The Mazda2 has a 7-inch screen, through which the communication and infotainment functions are controlled, by voice command or directly on the touch screen.
The Mazda2 also competes in the City of the Year class where it faces rivals such as: Hyundai i20, Honda Jazz, Nissan Pulsar, Opel Karl and Skoda Fabia.
Text: Essilor Car of the Year Award / Crystal Steering Wheel Trophy
Images: Diogo Teixeira / Ledger Automobile