| March 3, 1998 |
All-New Mazda MX-5 and "Demio Concept" Debuts in Europe
The Geneva Motor Show Also Features New 626 Station Wagon
Mazda Motor Corporation today announced that the all-new Mazda MX-5, along with "Demio Concept", a practical yet sporty compact wagon, made its European debut at the 1998 Geneva Motor Show* in Switzerland. The new Mazda 626 Station Wagon, Mazda MV-X and Mazda SW-X, roomy and versatile concept wagons; and a Compact Direct Injection Diesel Turbo Engine, part of Mazda's environmental technology were also displayed.
Equipped with European specifications, the new MX-5 offers a more powerful and responsive 1.8-litre or 1.6-litre engine with five-speed manual transmission. The new MX-5 will be marketed in 24 different countries in Europe beginning in April. The sales target for 1998 has been set for 13,000 to 14,000 units.
The first MX-5 was introduced in the spring of 1990 in Europe. As of January 1998, more than 67,000 units had been sold in Europe. Many compact sports cars have been introduced over the years in markets around the world; yet, the MX-5 continues to outshine its competitors. Over 430,000 MX-5s are on public roads world-wide today. The MX-5 has been acclaimed time and time again as a fun-to-drive, lightweight, open two-seater that creates a feeling of oneness between the car and driver and provides optimum styling enjoyment.
With the idea of a "sporty compact wagon" in mind, Mazda developed the "Demio Concept" exclusively for the Geneva Motor Show. Uniquely designed modifications make the "Demio Concept" a practical yet sporty compact wagon that will entice customers with "on the go" lifestyles. The exterior features a new front grill and spoiler, and an eye-catching Blue-Meets-Violet Mica (blue purple) paint. The interior color is light beige, and the seats and the door trim purposefully coordinate with the exterior color. A refined suspension system and 16 inches tires and wheels ensure both stable handling and a comfortable ride. Based on the response at the motor show, Mazda will decide whether to launch a new Demio line for the European market.
The new 626 Station Wagon, ready for sale in Europe, will further strengthen the entire 626 lineup. Conceived with a philosophy of putting people first, this station wagon uniquely combines sedan like comfort with class-leading station wagon utility and versatility. Flexible seating can accommodate a variety of interior arrangements depending on cargo size and the number of occupants. Passenger safety has been advanced with an array of features such as a highly rigid body design, SRS airbags with a passenger side de-activation system, and the world's first side-airbag in the C-D segment to protect the head and body.
For both city and country driving, Mazda presents the MV-X. As a multi-purpose vehicle, the MV-X is fit for people with diversified energetic lifestyles. And for those who appreciate cabin room, Mazda offers the SW-X. A spacious wagon with excellent packaging, the SW-X accommodates up to seven passengers in a C-segment, compact body.
Reaffirming our commitment to develop environmental technology, Mazda shows the Compact Direct Injection Diesel Turbo Engine with a total displacement of 1,998cc. The engine, which drastically reduces combustion noise and NOx emissions, incorporates a compact sized fuel-efficient direct injection and generates high-level engine output.
Mazda's Compact Direct Injection Diesel Turbo Engine will be used for the first time in Europe in the Mazda 626 series after the middle of this year.
(*) The Geneva Motor Show was held in 1905 for the first time. This motor show is held every year. The press day is scheduled on March 3 and 4. The public opening is from March 5 to 15.
Mazda MX-5
Demio Concept
