2011 Mazda2: 100 Horsepower, 35 mpg Highway

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When the 2011 Mazda2 goes on sale this July starting at $13,980, it will pack a small 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine teamed either to a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Even with just 100 horsepower, the mileage Mazda estimates the small car will return is 28/35 mpg city/highway.

While this compares favorably to the Toyota Yaris at 29/36 mpg and others currently on the market, it’s not an earth-shattering number. Mazda promises a more engaging driving experience in the Mazda2, like it does in the Mazda3. Cars.com reviewers don’t argue this is the case, and the Mazda3’s fuel economy isn’t tops in its class, either. But for customers who will gladly sacrifice a few mpgs for driving enjoyment, even the Mazda2 might be a more alluring choice than the upcoming Chevy Aveo and even the similar Ford Fiesta.

For more on the Mazda2’s pricing, check out our post here.