Recently the Japanese car manufacturer revealed the interiors of the Mazda2 through photos released to the members of the press.

The Mazda2 has an open and straightforward interior. Mazda responds to the demand of its core market which goes for better handling over flashy gimmicks and gadgets.

The designers of the Mazda2 want to convey a roomy and open interiors so they had to exert some effort to decrease the effects of the pillars that support the windshield.

The dominance of a piano black theme inside gives the Mazda2 a classy feel. The shapes of the different elements were also toned down to convey simplicity. The sides of the gauges were curved forward to give an illusion of bigger space. A little silver is use for contrast.

The feel of the stick is a bit odd since its extending from the dashboard rather than as a continuation of the floor. Comparing it to the Ford Fiesta with its center stack resembling lines from mobile phone designs, the Mazda2 has a simpler interior and a simpler center console.

The Mazda2 is scheduled to hit dealerships in the US on the latter part of the summer.

Mazda has recently redesigned the micro-mini AZ Wagon in Japan, offering more flexibity and room as well as better fuel efficiency. And thanks to a few tweaks and touches (which we see in the Custom Style rendition offered in Japan), the AZ Wagon has easily changed its image from being just cute to cool and comfortable.

However, Mazda faces an important challenge: how to redesign and engineer the AZ-Wagon such that it meets the vehicle safety standards observed in the US. See the AZ Wagon was originally engineered and designed to meet Kei-class standards in Japan, which places limitations on size and weight, power output, and engine displacement in vehicles. Basically, this means that if Mazda doesn’t redesign the AZ Wagon to comply with US standards, they can say goodbye to a considerable number of potential unit sales.

This is why Mazda has come up with a redesigned AZ Wagon, which not only passes US standards but also makes for an appealing and comfortable compact car. The redesigned four-seater has 50/50 split rear seats which can be folded or moved forward on tracks if you need more room for cargo than people. Many also laud the redesigned AZ Wagon for its space efficiency, which is quite impressive considering the car’s overall dimensions. In addition to all these, the AZ Wagon also uses an engine that is certified in Japan as a Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle.