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Mazda Hazumi concept is a promising look at a next-gen subcompact

Mazda's latest concept car gives us a very clear look at what to expect when the next Mazda2 arrives.

Antuan Goodwin Reviews Editor / Cars
Antuan Goodwin gained his automotive knowledge the old fashioned way, by turning wrenches in a driveway and picking up speeding tickets. From drivetrain tech and electrification to car audio installs and cabin tech, if it's on wheels, Antuan is knowledgeable.
Expertise Reviewing cars and car technology since 2008 focusing on electrification, driver assistance and infotainment Credentials
  • North American Car, Truck and SUV of the Year (NACTOY) Awards Juror
Antuan Goodwin
2 min read

GENEVA -- Take a long look at the new Mazda Hazumi concept. You now have a pretty good idea of what to expect from the 2015 Mazda2 when it's announced later this year.

Mazda Hazumi concept previews the next Mazda2 (pictures)

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The concept is a small five-door hatchback that features the same Kodo design language that you'll find on all new Mazda models, including the Mazda3, Mazda6, and the CX-5. Carbon-fiber accents can be found all over the Hazumi's exterior: on the front bumper, on the headlamp brows, composing the side mirror stalks, and on the rear spoiler and diffuser. The headlamps feature integrated LED light-piping that wraps around projectors and are joined with the large, pentagonal grill with a sculpted, silver bar.

Behind the grill, you'll find a new member of Mazda's Skyactiv family of engines. The 1.5-liter Skyactiv-D is a low-displacement diesel engine that uses similar technology and fuel saving tricks as the larger 2.2-liter diesel currently offered by the automaker. Mazda isn't stating power, emissions, or economy numbers at this time, claiming only that it "delivers exceptional driving performance with powerful torque and linear acceleration, as well as outstanding environmental performance."

Mazda Hazumi concept
The Hazumi concept is an attractive, athletic little hatchback. Antuan Goodwin/CNET

Some of the Hazumi's modern cabin tech will make it to the production model. For example, the transparent HUD that sits atop the dashboard is already available on the 2014 Mazda3, so it's conceivable that the automaker may offer it on the next Mazda2. Other features, such as the odd rear seat entertainment system, the large wheels, and the cameras where the rearview mirrors ought to be, will almost certainly not survive the translation to production model.

See CNET's full coverage of the Geneva auto show