2010 New York auto show: Mazda2 prices announced, launch date moved up

Mazda chose the New York Auto show to announce pricing on the new Mazda2 subcompact, and to say the launch date has been moved up to July of this year, several months earlier than had been planned.

Two trim levels of the four-door hatch will be offered, Sport and Touring. Sport models will begin at $13,980, including air conditioning, power windows and locks, and keyless entry. Standard safety features include traction control and stability control.

The uplevel Touring trim adds more features including a trip computer and steering wheel controls, and adds $1,455.

With a 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine producing 100-hp and mated to a standard 5-speed manual transmission or available automatic, Mazda promises the 2 will be fun to drive and return good fuel economy.

We look forward to purchasing one for a full road test as soon as they become available.