I think there are several cool designs for the home market that will never see the light of day here (as well as features).
I guess at the end of the day it all comes down to their interpretation (What do Americans like?) of what will sell in the US. As much as I hate to admit it seems like they may be right.
I commute to work everyday on the LIE and have yet to see another Mazda 2. I see Versa's, Fits, Yaris, Prius, Focus and even Sparks so the argument that Americans don't buy small hatchbacks don't seem to hold water based on what I have seen. So WHY no Mazda 2s? I don't think Mazda USA is pushing this car at all. The car I bought was sitting so long untouched on the lot that they had to put a new battery in just for the test drive.
Maybe if they spent some money on advertising, offered a Skyactiv or turbo option (another 15 -20hp would really improve this cars appeal) and other goodies from the home market sales would improve(?) IDK it is a shame really. I really enjoy driving this car. On the plus side I kind of like having one of the very few around here. Unfortunately, I know it does not bode well for this cars future in the US market.