Mazda MX-5 on display at Frankfurt
Mazda MX-5 in metallic red outlook was made available as limited edition in Australia Reuters

After seven years, the Mazda2 will finally pass on the torch to its successor, the all-new 2015 Mazda2. The hatchback will debut in Australia this summer, and it will be equipped with new technologies that aligns it with the needs of the modern motorist.

"With stylish KODO Design, outstanding fuel economy from SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY, revolutionary safety from i-ACTIVSENSE+ and Mazda's next-generation car connectivity system, MZD Connect+ - All-New Mazda2 will deliver incredible performance whilst enhancing what you love most, Zoom-Zoom," the Japanese car maker says in its website.

While several engines will be available in select areas in the global market, Car Advice says that Australian car shoppers will have a choice between only two 1.5-litre direct injection four-cylinder petrol engines. But they can opt for either the six-speed manual or the six-speed automatic with sports mode.

According to the online magazine, the base model will sport a V-P5 which will give out 79kW of engine power and 139Nm of torque, while the higher model will feature an F-P5 which produces 81kW of power and 141Nm of torque.

Inside, the magazine noted during a test of the pre-production prototype in Japan, the driver is treated with comfortable front seats that provide enough support, as well as added reach and tilt adjustment for the steering wheel. This gives the motorist a better driving position. The rear seats can be folded partially to add more room to the 220-liter boot.

As the all-new Mazda2 comes out this summer, car buyers can check first-hand the MZD Connect, Mazda's infotainment and connectivity system which features Bluetooth, satellite navigation, voice command, among others. And the little car is preloaded with a line of active and passive safety features, including the i-Activesense advanced safety suites.

This fourth generation Mazda will showcase the Hazumi concept (Hazumi is a Japanese word that means bounding or springing up), and will feature Mazda's Kodo or Soul of Motion design, with set-back headlights, rounded rear, and the five-point front grille reminiscent of its larger siblings.