Geneva: Fans of Mazda’s lauded KODO ‘Soul of Motion’ design language are carefully examining the Mazda Hazumi Concept as it may dictate the styling for the next Mazda2. Mazda stated that the design of the Mazda Hazumi Concept gives viewers a glimpse of Mazda’s next B-segment vehicle which the Mazda2 is currently.
The Mazda Hazumi Concept has the all-new 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engine. Mazda says that this diesel will produce excellent economy while remaining a solid, sporty performer. No mention of other engines, although there is a rumor of Mazda developing a Skyactive 3-cylinder gas engine. The other rumor is that a six-speed manual and continuously variable transmission (CVT) could be part of the Mazda Hazumi Concept and/or the next Mazda2.
The HAZUMI is yet another example of KODO’s vast potential and how well it can be adapted to different vehicles of different sizes. “Whereas with longer models such as the SHINARI we use long and free lines of motion stretching from front to back to express KODO, with HAZUMI we’ve created a form which suggests explosive motion,” says HAZUMI chief designer Ryo Yanagisawa. “It’s like an animal poised to pounce. Every muscle is held tense as it gathers energy for the chase. Despite being small, KODO gives the concept car a presence that can’t be ignored, and a shape that has driving pleasure written all over it.”
There’s little doubt that the KODO design language has been a remarkable styling success for Mazda. HAZUMI is a Japanese word meaning to “bound” or “spring up.” If the Mazda Hazumi Concept becomes the next Mazda2, there is no mention of it coming to North America. Sales of the current Mazda2 are slow in the U.S. Despite being a brilliant handler and a fairly efficient runabout – the current Mazda2 costs over $14,000 and its not as efficient as many competitors.
Hopefully, if the next Mazda2 comes to the United States, it will have the latest in Mazda’s high tech safety and infotainment systems. “The Mazda HAZUMI adopts Mazda’s cutting-edge range of i-ACTIVSENSE safety features. Meanwhile, MZD Connect offers drivers the fun and convenience of smartphone connectivity in a format that is safe and appropriate for in-vehicle use.” – – Mazda
Time will tell if the Mazda Hazumi Concept points to the next Mazda2 – but it’s a logical conclusion as this same type of styling debut preceded the Mazda CX-5 and Mazda6. We’ll keep you posted.
Check out this video review of the new Mazda3!
