Mazda 2

	Members of the public rarely get to test drive a concept car, but Mazda is letting them do just that on Nagare Island in the web-based virtual world

Our spy photographers caught the new Mazda 2 being put through its paces, and fans clearly have a surprise in store as the Japanese firm seeks to raise the profile of the car.

There's a rising waistline and contoured flanks, while under the disguise, a triangular grille flows into the bonnet. Slanted lights and a deep air intake in the front bumper complete the look.

And to ensure interior space is more than a match for the tall-bodied version, the latest model will be longer and wider than the existing car.

The new 2 takes its underpinnings from the next-generation Ford Fiesta, but that won't stop the Mazda from beating its blue oval rival into the showrooms. After its first public outing at Geneva, the 2 will be on sale by the end of the year. Engine options will be shared with the Ford.

The line-up is to include direct-injection 1.3, 1.6 and 1.8-litre Duratec SCi motors, while the 1.4 and 1.6-litre TDCi diesels will use the latest particulate filters to reduce emissions.

Meanwhile, members of the public rarely get to test drive a concept car, but Mazda is letting them do just that on Nagare Island in the web-based virtual world, Second Life. 'Inhabitants' can 'drive' the Hakaze concept online and even meet its designers. To find out more, visit the www.secondlife.com site.

The company has also revealed further details of the CX-7 SUV, upon which the Hakaze concept is based. When it goes on sale here in Sep­tember, the CX-7 will have a 260bhp 2.3-litre petrol engine, to be joined by a new 2.2 diesel next year. The unit will also be in the next Mazda 6.