Mazda announced plans at a dealer meeting yesterday to import its sub-compact Mazda2 to the United States in late 2010. Smaller than the Mazda3, the Mazda2 is sold overseas as a front-wheel drive three- or five-door hatchback. It is sized like the Honda Fit and Toyota Yaris.

Along with the upcoming Chevrolet Spark and Ford Fiesta, the 2 will add to the competition in the subcompact segment--a category that had virtually vanished from the U.S. a few years ago. We’ll likely see a 1.5-liter double-overhead-camshaft engine version with variable induction that makes about 102 horsepower.

The Mazda2 won European Car of the Year when it was introduced there in 2008. Other small Mazdas we have tested are very competitive in their classes and enjoyable to drive. We look forward to trying the Mazda2 when it arrives to see if it lives up to its reputation.

For more on the upcoming Mazda2 and other new cars, see our New Car Preview.

—Eric Evarts