Ever wondered what a hot version of the Mazda2 would look like? Of course you did, since the little bugger is fun to drive, but was never offered with a decent engine. However, we think that could change with the all-new generation, which was just launched in Japan last week.
Based on a crisp new KODO design, one graphics designer/manipulator, nicknamed X-Tomi, has created this interesting looking Mazda2 MPS rendering. For those of you who live in North America, know that "MPS" is what they use to market their tuned models over in Europe. However, they're essentially the same hot stuff offered in the Mazdaspeed lineup.
A Mazda2 MPS / Mazdaspeed2 makes more sense now than ever, since rumors suggest a small turbo engine will find its way under the bonnet of the MX-5 this September. Something like a 1.5 with forced induction would be perfect for a hot supermini, since it's what most cars of this type pack. You've got the Clio RS, Ford Fiesta ST and Peugeot 208 GTi, all using 1.6 turbos, joined by triplets from Volkswagen Group that use a 1.4-liter. Or better yet, why not offer a hot 2-liter naturally aspirated mill... like almost nobody does these days.
Handling-wise, the Mazda2 MPS could be a sweet thing, thanks to the light Skyactiv chassis and long wheelbase that have just been developed by the Japanese engineers.
So why hasn't Mazda offered a hot 2 before? Well, the first generation was essentially a really small MPV, not a fun thing to drive. Meanwhile, the outgoing model is/was based on the Ford Fiesta. Maybe the market for these cars wasn't that big back then, but is certainly is now and Mazda has both the motivation and resources to make things happen.
A Mazda2 MPS / Mazdaspeed2 makes more sense now than ever, since rumors suggest a small turbo engine will find its way under the bonnet of the MX-5 this September. Something like a 1.5 with forced induction would be perfect for a hot supermini, since it's what most cars of this type pack. You've got the Clio RS, Ford Fiesta ST and Peugeot 208 GTi, all using 1.6 turbos, joined by triplets from Volkswagen Group that use a 1.4-liter. Or better yet, why not offer a hot 2-liter naturally aspirated mill... like almost nobody does these days.
Handling-wise, the Mazda2 MPS could be a sweet thing, thanks to the light Skyactiv chassis and long wheelbase that have just been developed by the Japanese engineers.
So why hasn't Mazda offered a hot 2 before? Well, the first generation was essentially a really small MPV, not a fun thing to drive. Meanwhile, the outgoing model is/was based on the Ford Fiesta. Maybe the market for these cars wasn't that big back then, but is certainly is now and Mazda has both the motivation and resources to make things happen.