New Mazda2 Sedan & Hatchback

Ever since it was announced that the Mazda2 would be coming to Malaysia, there is been a great deal of anticipation. Its a model that has won praises in many markets, including ‘World Car of the Year for 2008. That particular title is significant because earlier winners were high-end models costing much more and to win it meant that the Mazda2 obviously has a tremendously appealing all-round package. Finally, its here, having been officially launched this morning at the new showroom of Prima Merdu (the sole importer which works with Bermaz Motor, the distributor) in Puchong, Selangor. Though the Mazda2 made its debut a few years ago, it was not practical to offer it here because its price would not have been competitive as it would have to be imported CBU from Japan. However, seeing that such a model would be ideal for this region, Yuji Nakamine, who is the Managing Executive Officer and General Manager of Overseas Sales at Mazda, made a strong case to have the Mazda2 made in ASEAN, so as to take advantage of the benefits of AFTA. In this way, the small hatchback would be subject to no import duties and be a competitively-priced alternative to the Toyota Vios and Honda City. The plan to make the Mazda2 in ASEAN required additional investment in the plant in Rayong, Thailand, which had been originally configured to make pick-up trucks. An extension was built at a cost of some US0 million to produce small models such as the Mazda2 and also the Ford Fiesta. This …

Video Rating: 5 / 5

recorded live @ Roots Cafe in Park Slope, Brooklyn April 9th, 2010 written by Dan Morrow bass : Dan Bindschedler keyboard/vocals : Gabby Sherba electric guitar : Alex Sherba percussion : Justin Drummer