2013 Mazda2

Subcompacts were long relegated as first cars for first-time drivers.  They were the cheap family hand-me-down for Junior until he could prove his mettle behind the wheel before being entrusted with the keys to a “grown-up” vehicle.  How times have changed.  Today such entry-level vehicles are offering an unabashedly charming version of fun and frugal that Junior probably doesn’t want to drive what the parents are tooling around town in.  How exciting can a grown-up’s car be anyway?  Enter the 2013 Mazda2, Zoom-Zoom in its most concentrated form.

The sprightly Mazda2 entered the subcompact segment in 2007, first in Japan, Europe and Australia.  These markets overwhelmed the new model with rabid acclaim, such as the “2008 World Car of the Year” and other “Car of the Year” distinctions from home-country Japan to faraway Greece.  When the Mazda2 debuted in North America in 2010 as a 2011 model, more awards followed in the form of various “Top Ten” and “Best Cars” lists.

“Although the smallest vehicle in our lineup, the 2013 Mazda2 offers great value to consumers looking for high fuel efficiency, dynamic performance and clean design wrapped in an affordable package,” said Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO).  “One of the more exciting vehicles in the subcompact segment, the Mazda2 is an integral part of Mazda’s full lineup of vehicles.”

Refined Design

Junior’s no-fuss, second-hand subcompact isn’t supposed to look good; it just needs to start.  But the 2013 Mazda2 not only looks good with its sharp, smooth lines – once you start it, you don’t want to stop it.  In a segment that doesn’t offer designers much sheet metal to work with, complex lines become simple and purposed while size is translated into comfort and functionality. The Mazda2’s taut wedge shape conveys athleticism, with its shortened body overhangs and trimmed corners further accentuating its slender physique.  Swooping character lines that start from the front wheel arch energetically flow across the vehicle’s sides and deviously wrap around the C-pillar and through the trunk lid to complete a distinctive personality.

Available in Sport and Touring trims, both feature a body-color grille, power outside mirrors and door handles, keeping to a crisp, fresh exterior look.  A front-roof-mounted radio antenna adds a little vibe. The Touring model offers 15-inch alloy wheels as standard over the Sport’s 15-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers.  The Touring trim also adds fog lights, a rear roof spoiler and chrome exhaust finisher for a sporty touch.