2011 Mazda2 Sedan to Be Launched in Australia

Mazda2 will be launched in Australia in mid-2010, the company confirmed through the voice of its local managing director, while the hatchback version will be sourced from a new plant in Thailand. But one of the most important attributes of the upcoming model might actually be its safety as the sedan is likely to be equipped with six airbags plus stability control as standard.

The Australian government demands automaker to fit stability control on all model year 2011 vehicles.

The Thai-built Mazda2 will actually represent an important step made by the Japanese manufacture. Until now, this particular model came from Japan which, according to drive.com.au, resulted in a 10 percent import tax. But, thanks to a free trade agreement signed by Australia and Thailand, the upcoming models won't be subjects to new taxes, a move that might pretty well result in lower final prices.

Additionally, Ford Fiesta, Mazda2's one of the main rivals, will be built in Thailand starting next year as well.

"By mid-2010 the Mazda2 will be built in Thailand," said Mazda Australia managing director Doug Dickson. "We will also be able to offer a Mazda2 sedan."

As said, Mazda is looking to make this model one of the safest in its class. Until now, Mazda2 was available with an optional safety package, priced at AU $1,100, which added four extra airbags and stability control. However, things are likely to be different for the revised model as Mazda is considering offering all these features as standard. At this time, Mazda2 is priced at 16,390 Australian dollars.