New passenger cars don't come much smaller than the 2011 Mazda MAZDA2, a model that shares its basic platform with the recently introduced Ford Fiesta. Available exclusively as a four-door hatchback, this subcompact keeps things simple by offering only two trim levels. The MAZDA2 Sport offers basic accommodations that include air conditioning, power windows and door locks and a CD player (with MP3 capability) while the Touring model installs a spoiler and fog lights as well as cruise control, nicer seats and a trip computer.
Both versions of this new passenger car come with the same economy-focused four-cylinder engine. Displacing 1.5-liters, the motor squeezes out 100 horsepower and 96 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is somewhat thirstier than expected for such a small engine, coming in at 28-mpg around town and 35-mpg on the highway when equipped with a five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic is also available as an option.
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