The 2008 Mazda2, a fuel efficient vehicle sold overseas, has been awarded with the prestigious 2008 World Car of the Year award at the New York Auto Show. The award was voted on by international automotive journalists. The Ford Mondeo and Mercedes-Benz C-Class finished closely behind the Mazda2.

Mazda executives were pleased with the announcement stating:

"We are delighted that the 2008 World Car of the Year jury has chosen the all-new Mazda2 as their World Car of the Year," said Dan Morris, Mazda's senior managing executive officer in charge of Marketing, Sales and Customer Service. "This is wonderful recognition which Mazda2 car owners and Mazda employees alike can celebrate worldwide.