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Sleek new Mazda 2 makes debut at Geneva show

Mazda's sleek new supermini made its debut at the Geneva motor show today (6 March).

It certainly looks a whole lot more interesting than its rather dour predecessor, with a dynamic exterior design that makes this one of the most recognisable superminis on sale.

The inside is similarly swish, with colourful fabrics and a sweeping dash that includes a Toyota Auris-style high-set gearlever.

Expect the 2 to be as good to drive as it is to look at – Mazda wants to be known as the maker of drivers' cars.

The initial engine line-up consists of two petrol engines, (a 1.3-litre with either 74bhp or 83bhp depending on the market) and a 1.5-litre with 102bhp. A 1.4-litre diesel engine will be introduced a few months later.

The 2 is a crucial new vehicle for Mazda and parent company Ford; its platform will form the basis of the next Fiesta. The new platform uses high-tensile steel to make the 2 lighter (by 100kg over its predecessor), safer and Mazda claims quieter, too.

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Car review

Back in 2008 the Mazda 2 was voted World Car of the Year. Considering the car’s engineering thoroughness and individuality, that shouldn’t be a surprise.

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