The Mazda2 has been voted the 2008 World Car of the Year (WCOTY).
From an initial entry list of thirty-nine new vehicles from all over the world, the 2008 WCOTY title was announced at the New York International Auto Show.
The Mazda2 edged out the Ford Mondeo and Mercedes-Benz C-Class to take the overall award.
A jury of 47 international automotive journalists selected the overall winner by secret ballot, based on their experience with each candidate as part of their professional work. The jury members constitute a balance of representation from Asia, Europe, North America, South America, as well as other parts of the world.
You could have your very own world car of the year on a lease contract for as little as from £149 per month but check www.contracthireandleasing.com for the best available offers.
There’s a choice of engines with the Mazda2, and the line-up starts with the 1.3-litre, 75ps. Standard equipment includes 15-inch steel wheels, ABS with Brake Assist and EBD, driver and front passenger airbags, remote central locking with deadlocks, electric front windows, driver seat height adjust, CD radio with AUX jack and two speakers, multi-function glovebox with magazine rack, Thatcham Category 1 alarm and immobiliser and electric door mirrors.
The Mazda2 TS2 is also available with 1.3-litre, 86ps petrol engine,
while the range topper in the petrol range, the Mazda2 Sport, has a 1.5-litre 103ps engine and a full sports styling kit.
Dan Morris, Mazda’s senior managing executive officer in charge of Marketing, Sales and Customer Service said: “We are delighted that the 2008 World Car of the Year jury has chosen the all-new Mazda2 as their World Car of the Year. The all-new Mazda2 is exceeding our highest expectations, demonstrating it can compete and win against the best sub-compact cars in any market in the world.”
Simon McBride

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