SEMA 2010: Puma-hip Mazda2 and its Evil Track twin elicit our want

NewsFeeder · November 3, 2010

Filed under: SEMA Show, Budget, Hatchback, Mazda

Hipster sneaker Mazda2 - Click above for high-res image gallery

We got a good look at the two funked-up Mazda2s brought to SEMA by the Zoom-Zoom gang, and at least one of them we sorely need to see on the streets. After happening upon a color and materials designer who worked on this and the Mazda Miata Super20, we asked for the details on the whats and the whys. We were told that the slight gray wundercar with the superfine metallic was created to showcase a hipper, in-house side of the 2, à la a Puma sneaker. That means a rich base coat cut by bold graphics and harmonized details that don't detract from the big picture.

For us, it works. And in fact, it works so well that it's just the kind of thing we think Mazda needs to do to introduce some more entry-level Zoom-Zoom to proceedings. Scion has lost its way, but the Focus ST is coming and the Fiesta is selling loaded up with options, so there's no reason the Mazda2 needs to sit in the bargain fuel economy corner. The wheel and tire combo might need a bit more attention, but it'd be a shame for this car to remain a unicorn.

On the other side of the stand was its "Evil Track" twin racing version, with a set of slicks and a roll cage. We certainly wouldn't mind seeing that one, either... but Mazda, come on - the Sneaker2 is the way to go. Bring it. Until that happens, check out this pair of 2s in the galleries of high-res photos below.

Gallery: SEMA 2010: Mazda2 Street