Mazda2 three-door in the works

Mazda will release a three-door version of its new Mazda2 compact in the second half of next year as well as a possible hotted up MPS (Mazdaspeed) version further down the track. The news comes from Mazda’s European boss James M. Muir, who revealed that Mazda wants to expand its sales in the B segment by introducing more variants. Mazda is targeting a 2.5% share of the B segment by 2009, but to achieve this it will need more models.

As for the performance MPS, Muir revealed to AutoWeek.nl that officials are yet to give it the green light but said European importers are eagerly awaiting such a model. Previous reports suggested the MPS will feature a 200hp 2.0L turbo four-cylinder, sending drive to the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox. The car will also likely receive a new sports bodykit, chrome exhaust tip and 17in alloys.