Mazda Motor Corporation reveals the Mazda2 at the 102nd Paris Auto Show on September 26. It will go into production at the Valencia Plant in Spain at the beginning of 2003, as Mazda’s first model built in Europe.

The Mazda2, the second of Mazda’s new generation vehicles, was launched in the Japanese market on August 7, with the name of Demio.

It is an entirely new vehicle which was developed to be the benchmark in the small car class, scheduled to go into production at the Valencia plant at the beginning of 2003.

The interior design is based on clean and simple lines, with the low, flat instrument panel providing an open feeling and superb visibility. The metallic centre panel and overall interior is of a quality to match the best European competitors.

The exceptional driving dynamics and handling stem from a combination of a newly developed engine range, revised suspension and steering set up, enhanced chassis and body rigidity and a more responsive braking system.

The Mazda2 offers a whole new range of engines, all of which are produced in Europe (while the Japanese Demio is equipped with engines from Hiroshima); 1.25 litre (55 kW/75 ps), 1.4 litre (59 kW/80 ps), 1.6 litre (74 kW/100 ps). Petrol and diesel engines meet Euro4 emission standard. A modern Common Rail Diesel Engine 1.4 litre DE with 50 kW/68 ps is also available.

The 1.4 litre engine (petrol and diesel versions) offers drivers the choice of sporty clutchless shifting, or a comfortable ride with automatic mode in stop-and-go traffic. Unlike conventional automatic transmission systems, fuel consumption with ASM technology is no higher than with manual transmission versions.