Mazda Discontinues Mazda 2, Replaces with CX-3 Crossover in 2027
Translated & summarized from Alarab by baba
Mazda is discontinuing its Mazda 2 supermini after nearly 30 years, with the CX-3 crossover taking over as its entry-level model in 2027. The new CX-3 will be produced in Thailand and feature a mild-hybrid system. The Mazda 2's sales ended in Israel in April 2025 after selling over 70,000 units since 2008. This move aligns with the industry's shift towards crossovers.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Mazda is discontinuing the Mazda 2 supermini after nearly three decades.
- The CX-3 compact crossover will replace the Mazda 2 as Mazda's entry-level model in 2027.
- The next-generation CX-3 will be manufactured in Thailand and feature a mild-hybrid system.
- The Mazda 2's sales ended in Israel in April 2025, with over 70,000 units sold since 2008.
- This strategic shift reflects the global automotive industry's move towards crossovers.
- The Mazda 2 was originally launched as the "Demio" in Japan in 1996.
Mazda is phasing out its "Mazda 2" supermini model, which has been in production for nearly three decades. The company will not introduce a direct replacement for the supermini in most markets. Instead, the role of the entry-level model will be taken over by the next generation of the CX-3 compact crossover, slated for release in 2027. This strategic shift reflects a global trend in the automotive industry, with a declining demand for traditional small hatchbacks and a growing preference for higher-riding crossovers and "lifestyle" vehicles, which allow for higher profit margins.
The next-generation CX-3 will be manufactured in Thailand at the AutoAlliance plant in Rayong, following a $150 million investment to upgrade the facility. It will initially launch in Japan and Southeast Asian markets as an entry-level offering, with potential expansion into Europe. North America will continue to be served by the larger CX-30. The new CX-3 is expected to draw design inspiration from the Vision X-Compact concept and will feature a mild-hybrid powertrain.
The Mazda 2, originally launched as the "Demio" in Japan in 1996, has been available globally in hatchback and sedan variants. The current generation has been on the market since 2014, benefiting from continuous updates and retaining its naturally aspirated gasoline engines and traditional automatic transmission. A hybrid version, built on the Toyota Yaris under a partnership, has been available in Europe since 2022 and may continue sales separately.
In Israel, Mazda officially ceased sales of the Mazda 2 in April 2025, with the last vehicle delivered then. Over 17 years, the model sold over 70,000 units since 2008. Imports stopped due to its engine not meeting modern European emission standards, despite strong sales figures, including 4,342 units in 2024 and 1,212 in 2025.