Mazda 2 : new-gen takes shape with sedan confirmed, three-door out

Mazda general manager of design Maeda Ikuo told CarAdvice that the Hazumi concept revealed at the 2014 Geneva motor show is “very close” to how the production Mazda 2 will look, and added that a sedan variant is also set to be offered.

“We have [a] sedan,” Maeda-san said, but he admitted the styling of the four-door model was a challenge.

“It is [difficult], even the present model. It’s so hard to get nice proportions.”

Maeda-san ruled out a three-door hatchback, however.

“We have a couple of options, but I do not think at this moment [for a three-door],” he said.

The current-generation Mazda 2 has been offered in all three of the aforementioned body styles over its lifespan in Australia, though it is currently sold only as a five-door hatch.

Mazda Australia public relations manager Steve Maciver said the sedan may make a return.

“It’s under consideration,” Maciver said. “We’ve got nothing to confirm at this point, but we’re looking at it.”

Maeda-san claimed the differences between the Mazda Hazumi and the new Mazda 2 production car, which is yet to be revealed, are “not easy to realise”.

He said the proportions of the car won’t change, meaning the new 2 will be longer, wider and not as tall as the car it replaces, and will also see a stretched wheelbase for better space and ride comfort.

Maeda-san said that applying the brand’s Kodo design language to the new Mazda 2 was a challenge.

“It is, because the size of it is so tight. And if you compare Mazda 3 against this Hazumi, all the basic component structure is very close to each other, but the proportion is so different because Mazda 3 tends to be [formed] in a longer movement. But this one is very tight and you know, a short movement.

“So in terms of a solution in the form language, [they] are very close to each other, but different,” he said.

He said the new model is decidedly more masculine than the car it replaces.

“The present Mazda 2 still very striking, that’s what I hope. At that moment I tried to get the female in high priority. And then I really focus to have a friendly face, very calm,” he said.

“But this Hazumi is like a boy. So simply saying, they’re girl and boy. That’s the difference.”