AUTO MODIFIED 2011

Mazda is expanding its line up, bringing its diminutive Mazda2 subcompact to the North American market in time for the 2011 model year. Based on the same architecture powering the all-new Ford Focus, the Mazda2 is its own beast and will likely appeal to Mazda3 enthusiasts, itself by far the best selling model in the Mazda fleet.

In addition to sharing the same platform, the Mazda2 and Ford Fiesta share front and rear wheel bearings, front bumper strut mounts and the front sway bar and links, according to Automotive News. Beyond that, everything in the Mazda2 is unique to that vehicle.

Originally launched in 2007, the Mazda2 has been on sale in Japan, Australia and Europe, winning numerous car of the year awards and accolades since then. Powered by a 100 horsepower, 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the Mazda2 is available with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

Among the standard features included are 15-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers, all-season tires, matching body color door handles and power mirrors, air conditioning, power windows and locks, an AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo with four speakers, audio auxiliary jack, tilt steering wheel, remote keyless entry system, rear window wiper/washer and 60/40 split fold-down rear seats