А якщо концепт Mazda виявиться значно ближчим до серійної Mazda2, ніж ми припускаємо?

Mazda was arguably one of the standout stars at this year’s Japan Mobility Show. The Tokyo event saw the reveal of the Vision X-Coupe and Vision X-Compact, both offering glimpses into Mazda’s future styling, powertrains and technological advancements. Also: The Next Mazda3 Might Not Even Be A Mazda At AllWhile the Coupe undoubtedly drew crowds with its turbocharged twin-rotary plug-in hybrid setup, it was arguably the smaller Vision concept that truly stole the spotlight, thanks to its Mini-like proportions and almost playfully friendly face.That naturally leads to a question: what if the latter concept is, in essence, the next Mazda2 in disguise? Let’s take a closer illustrative look at how that might play outA Friendly Face Should Mazda translate the Vision X into a production-intent offering, we’d expect it to retain most of the concept’s key elements in a slightly more conservative and practical package. In our study, the automaker’s Kodo design language continues, with an emphasis on fuss-free details and lighting interplay across different surfaces.The front end retains the Vision X’s friendly fangs (those vertical DRLs) alongside its recessed headlamps. Further down, the bumper features sculpted intakes and a smooth, body-coloured grille panel, with the lower vents easily sufficient to supply any combustion engine with the fresh air it needs.More: The Eclipse You Really Want But Mitsubishi Won’t TouchThe side keeps the concept’s upright stance, short overhangs and near-cab-forward proportions, while pronounced wheel arches, modest body sculpting and a high beltline lend the car presence without relying on busy creases.At the rear, the concept’s distinctive horseshoe tail-lamp clusters make the cut and the tailgate is broader and more than the Mazda2 we’ve come to know. Interior SmartsMazda’s press release paints the Vision X-Compact as a vehicle that feels like a “close companion,” capable of empathetic AI and natural conversation. If that sounds a bit too intrusive, fear not, as conversational AI will likely be a longer-term rollout play.Either way, any tech roster will be a huge step up over the previous car and its dated MZD Connect infotainment system. We envision it would sport a circular 3-gauge digital instrument cluster and a Google-based central infotainment screen, complemented physical climate and volume controls.Read: Mazda’s RX-7 Successor Meets The One Problem It Can’t Engineer AwayVisually, diagonal colour-coded door panels bring some vibrancy and personality, while the materials would likely aim higher than segment norms, with soft-touch surfaces and minimal hard plastics to elevate the cabin’s feel.What Could Power It? With the Japanese brand investing in alternative-fuel development and hybridisation, it’s highly likely that internal combustion will still rule the roost. We envisage the next Mazda2 with a 1.5-litre petrol engine in tandem with a series-parallel hybrid, sending power to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox.A full LFP battery-electric version would be fantastic, though still unlikely due to cost and production scale at this size. It would need to be competitive with rivals such as Renault’s R5, which offers 250 miles (402 km) of range, and an MX-30 EV-style reboot would be unacceptable in today’s climate.The CompetitionIf the Mazda2 were to see a reintroduction, odds are it would be a 2027 entrant at the very earliest. Key rivals in its segment include Toyota’s aging Yaris, Honda Fit/Jazz, Suzuki Swift, Kia Picanto, Renault Clio (and R5), Volkswagen Polo, Mini Cooper and Fiat 500. More: Mazda Brings Back Turbo Rotary Engine With Vision-X CoupeShould Mazda bring back the 2? We’d love to hear what you think, so share your thoughts in the comments below.