The current trend in the auto industry is that cars are getting bigger and heavier. The Honda Accord in the past was a compact sedan but is now competing in the midsize segment. The new Saturn Vue was made heavier after it was redesigned and based on the Opel Antara. Aside from these two auto models, others have also become larger and heavier, but in the case of the Mazda2, it was the opposite.
For the 2008 model year, the Hiroshima, Japan-based Mazda Motor Corporation will introduce a Mazda2 that will weigh less than its predecessor. According to the Japanese car manufacturer, the new Mazda2 will weigh 100 kilograms less than its forerunner. Aside from weighing less, the new Mazda2 will also be a bit shorter and lower than the 2007 Mazda2.
A good reason for lowering the weight of the Mazda2 is to increase its fuel efficiency. With less weight, the engine will not be tasked to produce more power. This would mean that the 2008 Mazda2 is more fuel efficient than its predecessor. This would surely be welcomed by car buyers as the price of gasoline continues to increase.
Aside from fuel consumption reduction, the lighter car also carries the same number of convenience and comfort features which came with its predecessor. Although less in weight and size, the 2008 Mazda2 can still adequately protect its occupants in the unfortunate event of a collision or a crash. The combination of these makes the 2008 Mazda2 a better vehicle than its predecessor.
Mazda has designed the Mazda2 to be lighter by using different materials on the body and frame of the vehicle. The usual steels used in the construction of the car were replaced by different grades of steel. The use of different grades of steel mean that less materials will be used since some of these materials are lighter but has the same strength of heavier metals. This technique is also used by Volvo in the construction of the S80 and the XC90.
The departure of the Mazda2 from Japanese design concept is made to make the car more appealing to car buyers in the United States and in Europe. With the Mazda2's famed pleasure-to-drive characteristic and the new sportier exterior design, it is expected to increase the buyer and fan base of the car affectionately called the 2.
On the outside, the Mazda2 is as sleek as it should be so it can attract younger car buyers. The short hood accented by the Mazda logo complements the clean lines on the side of the car. The small headlight configuration gives the car an aggressive yet friendly look. The grille is the most notable and exciting part of the car's exterior.
There are three engine choices for the new Mazda2. The first one is a1.3-liter engine with 75 horsepower. Another option is another 1.3-liter engine but it comes with an output of 86 horsepower. Torque output for the two engines is quite similar. To increase the power of these engines, systems can be used. The third engine option is a bigger 1.5-liter engine with an output of 103 horsepower.
With the lighter construction of the car and the revisions in its exterior looks can make the Mazda2 a serious competitor in its segment. Overall, the redesigning of the car for 2008 model year is a good one.
