Mazda's Dynamic Small Car Duo Judged Australia's Best

VICTORIA, Australia – December 3, 2008: The Mazda2 and Mazda3 small cars have been judged the best small cars in Australia by critics from some of the country's leading newspaper and internet media.

The accolades, bestowed by The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and Drive.com.au, are proof that Mazda's small cars not only have strong appeal with consumers, but also with Australia's toughest critics.

Judges agreed that Mazda's dynamic small car duo continue to offer an unrivalled combination of value-for-money, economy, driving dynamics, safety and practicality.

Judges lauded the Mazda3's combination of dynamic prowess, high levels of safety and strong value equation. They also found plenty to like in its refinement, quality and practicality.

The Mazda2 scored a unanimous victory in the Best Small Car Under $20,000 category, outshining its rivals with its funky and frugal ways. The award's judges declared the Mazda2 as the most affordable in its class and having the best performance while using the least fuel.

The Mazda2 has been undefeated in the Best Small Car Under $20,000 category since it launched in 2007. The Mazda3 extended its vice-like grip on the Best Small Car Over $20,000, winning it for the third successive year.

Doug Dickson, Managing Director of Mazda Australia, accepted the awards on behalf of Australia's best-selling full-line importer.

"To win these two important categories is particularly gratifying. Small cars make up one in three new vehicles bought by Australians, and these wins demonstrate that Mazda's small cars offer exactly the right mix of excitement and practicality for Australian new car buyers."

This is the sixth win for Mazda in the Drive COTY awards. The Mazda MX-5 won Best Convertible in 2006, the Mazda3 has won Best Small Car over $20,000 in 2006, 2007 and 2008, and the Mazda2 has won Best Small Car under $20,000 in 2007 and 2008.