Facelifted Mazda2 debuts in Japan minus famed Demio moniker

One of the oldest models in Mazda’s current product range having been around since 2014, the Japanese automaker has now officially divulged details of the heavily facelifted 2 due out in its home market on 12 September.

Aesthetically, the 2 comes with new headlights incorporating optional Adaptive LEDs, a tweaked grille similar to that of the new 3, chrome detailing, a sculpted front bumper, newly designed alloy wheel, and a redesigned rear bumper.

Despite appearing unchanged, the 2’s interior is said to “balance quality and playfulness” in that it receives upgraded materials, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, more sound deadening insulation materials, electric driver’s seats and upgraded software for the seven-inch MZD Connect infotainment system that also benefits from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. New safety and driver assistance tech consists of Lane Keep Assist, Radar Cruise Control and Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus system.

In Japan, where Mazda has opted to end the Demio moniker after 23 years for the domestic market 2, a choice of two engines will be offered; the 1.5 SkyActiv-G petrol in two states of tune; 81kW/141Nm or 85kW/148Nm and the new 1.8 SkyActiv-D turbodiesel that is expected to make 85kW/270Nm.

While drive will go the front wheels via a six-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive will also be available albeit only with the self-shifting ‘box.

In total, the 2 will come in eight trim levels; the petrol line-up made up of S, S Proactive, Proactive S Package, S L Package and the manual, two-wheel-drive only MB outfitted with the 85 kW engine, while the diesel will come in XD Proactive, XD Proactive S Package, and XD L Package.

Pricing meanwhile starts at ¥1 544 400 (R200 192) for the 15 S manual or automatic and tops-out at ¥2 610 000 (R338 321) for the all-gripping XD L Package diesel automatic in a range consisting out of 22 models.

No indication of local availability has yet been made, although expect the updated 2 to arrive either towards the end of this year or in early 2020 with the existing line-up of engines; the 82kW/145Nm 1.5-litre SkyActiv-G petrol and the 77kW/250Nm 1.5 SkyActiv-D turbodiesel.

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