The new, second-generation model has enhanced sportiness and comfort, and featuressignificant improvements in driving, environmental and safety performance, including a new generation engine featuring ‘Valvematic’, a continuously variable valve lift and valve-timing mechanism designed to achieve driving performance whilst saving fuel.

According to the Japanese MLIT 10-15 test standards, the 1.8 litre model achieves 16.0 kilometres per litre and the 2.0 litre model achieves 15.2 kilometres per litre.Also new is a 7-speed CVT with paddle shifts, claimed to improve fuel efficiency by 15 percent over the previous model. The new model also comes equipped with Steering-assisted Vehicle Stability Control (S-VSC), and a supplemental Restraint System with side and curtain-shield airbags. A Dynamic Sport Mode (2.0Z model) increases responsiveness of acceleration and deceleration, and is designed for sporty driving during cornering through use of traction control systems and electric power steering.

Selecting Eco Drive Mode optimizes alignment of driving force with accelerator operation and realizes energy saving in the air conditioning system, contributing to increased fuel efficiency. An Eco Driving Indicator that lights up to signify fuel-efficient vehicle operation and an Eco Zone Indicator that shows throttle use aim to raise driver awareness toward environmentally friendly driving and are standard on all models.Engine options are 1.8 litre, for front wheel drive models, and the 2.0 litre model is available in both front wheel drive and four-wheel drive versions.