The Toyota Vios is one tough cookie to beat.  Even without a distinguished model name, it soon became the Filipino favorite, outselling Toyota's perennial Corolla and pretty much everything else in the market, in the process.  Though it wasn't the most exciting car to drive, it managed to combine everything the Filipino buyer looked for: acceptable looks, a well-made interior and excellent fuel economy.

It certainly isn't the car enthusiast's car of choice, but what if there's a car that managed to do all that but add 'spirited handler' and 'good looks' into the mix?  That could only be the new Mazda2.  Though the Mazda2 itself is relatively old news (the third generation model was launched in July of this year), it's only now that they've launched a sedan version.  And though it's destined for the sedan-loving Chinese market, we think that this sub-compact car has what it takes to finally bring the challenge back to the Toyota Vios.

The compact body style is designed around "condensed dynamism"--meaning the Mazda2 communicates  movement even when standing still.  There are deep contours throughout the car, but especially on the A-pillars and the character line that extends from the front fenders to the body shoulders.  With a platform destined for the perky European Ford Fiesta, the use of ultra high-tensile steel and high-tensile steel was used to increase rigidity and safety without compromising weight. The Independent MacPherson Strut and Torsion Beam Axle suspension system was made lighter while improving its connection points as well.  An electric power steering system with variable assist completes the package.  All in all, this enables the Mazda2 to have lithe handling, comfortable ride and straight-line stability.

Like its RX-8 brother, the Mazda2 has something unique under its engine bay.  Though we'd wish for a Rotary engine on a sub-compact car, Mazda still delivered something new: a 1.3-liter Miller-cycle MZR engine.  The Miller-cycle engine employs the delay of closing the intake valves in order to reduce pumping losses and improve the thermal efficiency through a higher expansion ratio.  A Sequential Valve Timing System (S-VT) improves the fuel efficiency when cruising and accelerating as well.  All in all, the 1.3-liter MZR engine achieves a mixed-mode 23.0 km/L mileage while qualifying for Japan's Super Ultra-Low Emissions standard.  This engine delivers a maximum power output of 90 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 120 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm.  For those who'd want something sportier, there's a larger 1.5-liter motor.  The 113 horsepower, 140 Nm torque engine still delivers a respectable 19.2 km/L mileage figure. The 1.5-liter engine is additionally equipped with a Variable Induction System (VIS). Either engine is made available with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic.

Like all modern sub-compact cars, the Mazda2 doesn't lack in interior space.  With a wheelbase of 2,390 mm, the Mazda2 is specifically designed to accommodate people with heights ranging from 150-85 cm.  This is achieved thanks to plenty of seat adjustment (250 mm fore/aft and 55 mm of seat height).  The large windshield and the lowered shoulder lines allow for an excellent view and facilitation during parking maneuvers.

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