Prices for the all-new Mazda2 diesel range of five-door hatchbacks, which will go on sale next March, have been confirmed and start from just £9,499 (on-the-road).  Two equipment levels (TS and TS²) will be available each boasting the generous level of standard equipment already featured on the new Mazda2 petrol models.

New Mazda2 diesel models feature the same eye-catching, distinctive styling that is making the petrol models stand out from the small car segment crowd.  Both models will be powered by a newly developed MZ-CD 1.4-litre common-rail turbo diesel engine. 

This four‑cylinder power unit is similar to the engine of the outgoing model, but more fuel‑efficient and with reduced operating costs.  It produces 68ps at 4,000rpm and maximum torque of 160Nm at a low 2,000rpm for quick responses to the throttle pedal.  The precise-shifting five-speed manual transmission is fitted with special gear ratios to make the most of the diesel engine’s torque and ensure that this version of new Mazda2 is as much fun to drive as the petrol models.

“The new Mazda2 diesel has all the attractive and dramatic styling of the petrol models, and offers customers increased fuel economy, reduced CO₂ impact and ultra-low road tax of just £35 per year,” comments Mazda UK’s marketing director Mark Cameron. 

“It is going to deliver an entertaining driving experience coupled with Mazda’s renowned Japanese build-quality and reliability.  While styling is one of the most important factors in the buying process, consumers are increasingly aware of environmental issues and demand for small capacity diesels is growing.  We expect the new diesel models to account for 12 percent of Mazda2 sales,” added Cameron.

Standard equipment on the Mazda2 1.4D TS includes: 15-inch steel wheels, ABS with Emergency Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution, driver and passenger front airbags, remote central locking with deadlocks, electric front windows, electric adjustable door mirrors, driver seat height adjust, CD radio with auxiliary jack and two speakers, multi‑function glovebox with magazine rack and a Thatcham Category 1 alarm and immobiliser.

The new Mazda2 1.4D TS² model has 11 additional equipment items including: 15-inch alloy wheels, side and curtain airbags, body coloured electric, heated folding door mirrors, body coloured door handles, two additional audio speakers (total four), 60/40 split rear seats, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, leather steering wheel and gear knob and manual air-conditioning.

Each trim level of Mazda2 diesel is so well equipped that the options list is remarkably short, just metallic or mica paint (£350) and manual air-conditioning for the TS model (£500).  Customers ordering a diesel Mazda2 can choose between the same nine exterior colours as offered with the petrol model and two interior colours – Charcoal Black (TS) or Black (TS²) upholstery.

Remarkable fuel Economy with reduced Emissions
Thanks to its lightweight construction, sophisticated aerodynamics and high torque figure (160Nm compared to the 1.3-litre petrol model’s 122Nm), the new Mazda2 diesel combines lively performance with remarkable fuel economy. 

Although by their nature, diesel engines are heavier than petrol units, the Mazad2 diesel is a lightweight engine, featuring aluminium cylinder block, head and sump with alloy pistons and smaller diameter (45mm) main crankshaft bearings, so it  adds only 20kg to the car’s kerb weight, which is still a highly competitive 1050kg (including a 75kg driver).

With the diesel engine, Mazda2 accelerates from 0-to-62mph in 15.5 seconds and has a top speed of 101mph.  Fuel economy on the combined cycle is a remarkable 65.7mpg, giving a realistic range of almost 600 miles on a single 42.8-litre tank.  The engine is Euro 4 compliant and places this Mazda duo in road fund licence Band B so an owner will pay just £35 annual road tax.