Mazda Expanding Scalable Platform To B Segment; Does That Mean The Next Yaris Won't Suck?

Derek Kreindler
by Derek Kreindler

A report from Just-Auto suggests that the next Mazda2 will “use [a] downsized CX-5 platform”. While this is technically true, the headline is a bit misleading.

The platform used by the Mazda CX-5 is the same platform that underpins the Mazda6 as well as the upcoming Mazda3. Not only will Mazda be using it to underpin the Mazda2, but it looks like all of their future transverse, front-drive cars will adopt it. This is great news for anyone who likes to drive, as every vehicle so far that uses it is a superb car to drive.

This is also good news for Toyota. The next iteration of their Yaris is supposed to be built by Mazda using the Mazda2 platform at the company’s new Mexican factory. The Yaris is a bit of a dull drive to say the least, but if it really is sharing Mazda’s new scalable architecture, that should change things quite dramatically. The ability to amortize the costs of one architecture across multiple product lines should also be a huge help to Mazda. As Japan’s last “independent” auto maker, keeping its costs under control is crucial in an era of consolidation and shaky economic fundamentals.

Derek Kreindler
Derek Kreindler

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  • 84Cressida 84Cressida on May 22, 2013

    The Mazda 2 drives no differently than the Yaris, and I've driven both several times. The interior of the Yaris is also far better, with soft touch surfaces on the dash and the door panels - of which there is ZERO on the Mazda 2. The Yaris needs an updated powertrain, but it does not need to be changed as far as handling, ride, and interior quality, especially to lesser Mazda standards.

  • Otaku Otaku on May 22, 2013

    So I guess this means that yet another reason to avoid future versions of the Yaris (as if I needed another) will be their tendency to transform into a pile of rust as quickly as a Mazda.

  • Ryoku75 Ryoku75 on May 23, 2013

    This pretty much means that every Mazda will be the same car basically, save for the Miata. I never really wanted a slight touch of sport with the Yaris, just dependable transportation, humble looks (thats been thrown out recently), reasonable mpg, and a cheap price.

  • Spw Spw on May 23, 2013

    Whatever Mazda produces in Mexico, wont be Yaris. It may (?) replace Yaris in NA... but it wont be Yaris... Yaris is international model that sells about 350-400k a year, and its platform mates probably sell over million together.

    • Demetri Demetri on May 23, 2013

      Could be a new entry-level Scion, since there is no plan for an xD replacement.

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