Don’t be fooled but this isn’t a facelifted Mazda2 in disguise but actually the Japanese carmaker’s new city car. These spy shots are the first to show just that a Mazda1 is coming sometime soon.

Based on the Kiyora concept car first shown at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, the newcomer could make its appearance at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show. Though based on a Mazda2 this test car has a short wheelbase, and a dummy bonnet. It also features differently shaped taillights and headlamps, and shorter rear doors. It should come with a 1.3-litre direct-injection petrol engine, with a Smart Idle Stop System (SISS) that automatically shuts down and restarts the engine as required.

The unit is mated to a newly developed six-speed automatic transmission system which boasts similar fuel efficiency as a manual system.

[source: wheels24]