Failure to Launch: Mazda Canada Decides to Pass on Mazda2, Will Focus on Crossovers
After officially giving the Mazda2 its North America reveal in Montreal, Quebec, Canada in January, Mazda Canada announced, nearly 10 months later, it will not sell the subcompact hatchback in the country.
“Following a thorough evaluation of the B-car segment, Mazda Canada has decided not to launch the new generation Mazda2 in Canada,” Mazda Canada said in a statement released Monday.
Instead, the company will focus on its CX lineup, including the CX-3, CX-5 and new, upcoming CX-9 to be revealed for the first time this week in Los Angeles.
Mazda Canada had officially delayed the subcompact earlier this year, stating that a busy launch schedule would stretch resources too thin. The automaker also launched the brand-new subcompact CX-3 crossover, which is based on the Mazda2, and refreshed versions of the Mazda6 and CX-5 this year.
Built in Mexico and sold in the United States as a Scion iA — though as a sedan instead of a hatchback when badged a Scion — the Mazda2 was supposed to come to Canada, but not the United States. Instead, Canadians looking for some zoom-zoom in their subcompact will have to check out the Toyota Yaris Sedan, a Canada-only model that’s identical to the Scion iA sedan in the United States.
More by Mark Stevenson
Comments
Join the conversation
I don't understand why, after certifying it, why they wouldn't just throw it in the showrooms and let it sell. I understand that Mazda has a limited budget and didn't want to spend to advertise it, but when was the last time you saw any ad for a subcompact car? From what I've read, the Mazda2 is a nice little car. Why not have it? That said, the CX-3 is a beautiful looking little CUV, I can see why they would want space for it on the lots.
The problem with the 2 is the CX3 and the fact the '2' is at the upper price bracket for subcompacts... in fact you can get a decent C segment for the same price as the mazda 2, so why get the mazda 2? Granted the mazda 2 is sold as a 'premium subcompact' but really, its a tough sell to the people who buy in this class.
Hey Mazda Canada, instead of polluting the streets with more lame crossovers, how about you bring on that sexy Mazda 6 wagon. I love the 6, but this Canadian needs a hatch. Why is it so damn hard to find a regular mid-size wagon? Ive been looking to replace my Volvo V50 and pretty much everything is too small (V60 or Sportwagon) or too big/expensive (ie 80k E-Class). That class of Passat wagon has disappeared. Can't wait till the C Class wagon comes to Canada!
One contender off the list for my next car purchase. I was eagerly looking forward to the next 2 as I really liked the current one I've been driving for the last 4 years even if it was goofy looking and somewhat outdated by now. I guess I'll have to start considering a poverty spec Mazda3 if I want to stay with the brand. It's not like there was much price difference anyways but I generally like smaller hatchbacks as a matter of personal preference which makes the new Honda Fit look better everyday.