The Mazda2 is the 2008 World Car of the Year .From an initial entry list of thirty-nine new vehicles from all over the world, the overall 2008 World Car of the Year title was announced today at the New York International Auto Show. The Mazda2 (known as the Mazda Demio in Japan) edged out the Ford Mondeo and Mercedes-Benz C-Class to take the overall award. Based on the recommendations of a design panel consisting of four highly respected world design experts, the Mazda2 was also voted by the jurors onto the short-list of top three design finalists, together with the Audi R8 and Volvo C30.
The second generation all-new Mazda2 commenced sales in Japan in July 2007, and soon drew attention thanks to its fun-to-drive, Zoom-Zoom driving dynamics, and the emphasis Mazda placed on the new generation’s desire for environmental and safety attributes and great design. The all-new Mazda2 reflects these emerging modern attitudes with stylish exterior design complemented by low running costs and excellent fuel economy, achieved by reducing the vehicle’s weight by approximately 100 kilograms.