| December 21,1999 |
DEMIO to Facelift for More Classy Look
-The limited version is also available to purchase only online-
Mazda Motor Corporation today introduced the facelifted freestyle wagon DEMIO, to which major changes on both interior and exterior and the safety-facilitating "DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)"---which has been first applied in its class of Japan--have been incorporated. It will immediately go on sale from today at the Mazda, Mazda Anfini, and Autozam dealerships (including the Mazda Autozam dealerships) throughout Japan.
The release of the new DEMIO accompanies Mazda's first attempt to online sales: this DEMIO series contains the "Web-tuned@DEMIO", an internet limited version, which is available to make a purchase reservation from January 6, 2000 (note: purchase contracts including registration need to be done at a Mazda dealer shown above).
The DEMIO secures ample, relaxing interior space within a compact body, and enables parking in tower parking garages. Its stylish appearance, flexible and creative seating arrangements, and superb maneuverability is a proper presentation of Mazda's brand personality. Since its introduction in August 1996, DEMIO has earned a warm reception from its customers and established the new segment in the passenger vehicle market. The cumulative production by the end of November has exceeded 370,000 units.
Major changes on both interior and exterior have revealed two beautifully matched characters: youthfulness and elegance. The enhanced suspension system offers better driving performance, and such safety features as airbag and ABS are now included in its standard equipment (DSC is optional). All of these enhancements emphasize the brand distinctiveness of Mazda.
Details of the facelift are as follows:
- In addition to employing the five-point grill, changes in both exterior and interior, for example for the hood and instrument panel, realize a more youthful yet classy look.
- Air filter with aldehyde-eliminating function and a variety of added new storage spaces enhance comfort and convenience.
- Updated electronically-controlled, four-speed automatic transmission system and suspension enhance the driving performance and give comfort ride and a fun to drive.
- DSC(*1) is available as option for the first time in this class of vehicle, and ABS, EBD(*2), brake assist, and airbags for both driver and passenger seats are standard equipment.
The monthly sales target is 7,000units.
DEMIO1300LX-S
Based on the concept "Stylish and Sporty", the internet limited version "Web-tuned@DEMIO" makes a difference from the standard 1500GL (4AT) for its exterior color options (Black Metal and Titanium Color) and 14-inch aluminum wheels. Additionally, the specially installed Rear Performance Rod attains an excellent steering feel, the essential factor to provide a car-maneuvering pleasure. Mazda does not only offer these enhancements for appearance and driving performance but also serves more effectively for internet-conscious customers with the online purchase opportunity, trying to make the brand Mazda more distinctive in the market. The price of the internet limited version, which has eight specialized standard features and six optional features, is another attraction: it is only 37,000 yen higher than that of the standard grade.
Web-tuned@DEMIO
As for the online sales of "Web-tuned@DEMIO", Mazda is the first automobile company to provide online such services as trade-in inspection and credit check using email. Adopting this online dealing system practically skips the step where customers sit down with the dealer, considerably cutting back the time that customers spend contacting the dealer. This system helps customers estimate the total price including auto-relating taxes and compulsory automobile liability insurance (except the handling fees of the dealer). If customers need to trade in the existing car, they can use the system to figure out its trade-in price. Credit purchase is also available in this dealing system via email. Accepting terms and conditions of this online purchase system, customers can make a purchase reservation at Mazda's web-site. The dealer, which customers pick up in the online reservation procedure, contacts and sets up an appointment to sit down with the customers for the final contracts.
Additionally, all the customers who purchase "Web-tuned@DEMIO" are entitled for the low credit rate (2.9%).
Mazda is enthusiastic to sustain and further develop such an alternative sales method using internet, pursuing Mazda's brand essence, "New Idea That Stir Your Emotions", to support customers' auto lives.
Details of major changes are as below:
- Distinctive Design - refreshed interior and exterior for more classy feel -
- Based on Mazda's theme of "Contrast in Harmony", the exterior is now more youthful and classy.- Updated configuration of the hood and fenders further makes the five-point grille more prominent, and the Mazda's family face of five point grill are adopted. It now gives more distinctive and stylish front view of Mazda.
- Both multi-reflector headlamps and rear combination lamps are aluminum-vaporized, giving off a glitter of a quality car.
- Narrower gaps between the different parts such as the hood, fenders, and bumpers, and the side protection moldings color-keyed with the body color (standard for Grade GL-X, LX-S, and optional for Grade GL, LX-G) contribute to more classy look.
- Eight body colors in total are available; in addition to highlight silver metallic, which was also offered previously, consumers can also select from seven new colors, including Glacial Silver Metallic, Astoria Green Metallic, and Pure White.
2) Interior
- The instrument panel is re-designed representing
a combination of two graduation colors: light
gray overall and dark gray on top (Only monotone
of gray is available for Grade L and LX).
- The steering wheel and rear console are color-keyed with the overall interior color scheme in light gray.
- Each grade has different seat covering to clarify the personality of each grade.
Exceptional Functionality - Enhanced Comfort and Convenience -
- Air filter with an aldehyde-eliminating
function enhances interior comfort (This
feature is available only to Grade GL-X,
GL, LX-S).
- The controls for the audio system and air conditioner are all placed in the middle of the instrument panel for easy access.
- Updated seatback structure of the front seats together and driver's seat front tilt and hip point lifter functions are offered.
- The seats are further improved for all
the grades except Grade L: the driver can
choose an optimal height of the seat using
both front-tilting and hip-rifting adjustments,
and the backrests of the front seats are
fine-tuned for more comfort.
- The audio space in the instrument panel has been expanded from 1DIN to 2DIN size.
- Redesigned gauge panel with larger lettering improves legibility.
- Cup holders in front have been enlarged to accommodate 500 ml plastic bottles.
Responsive Handling and Performance - Enhanced Fun to Drive and Riding Comfort -
1) Powertrain/Chassis
Engine |
1.3-liter SOHC |
1.5-liter SOHC |
Maximum output |
61kW/6,000 rpm |
74kW/6,000 rpm |
Maximum torque |
108N·m/4,000 rpm |
127N·m/4,500 rpm |
- The 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine incorporates EGR (Exhaust Gas Recycling) system and improves fuel economy and reduces exhaust emissions. Fuel consumption is 14.8 km per liter (10/15 mode) for the four-speed automatic transmission model.
- A new electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission system that provides smoother and more efficient shifting is standard on both 1.3-liter and 1.5-liter engine options.
- Updating the insulator of the hood and the dashboard and strengthening the rigidity of the converter housing reduce the audible engine noise inside the vehicle and realize the comfortable driving environment.
- Rigid front and rear suspension systems and updated damper gives better handling stability and a more comfortable ride.
- The brake servo unit is larger and both
brake assist and EBD have been added to ensure
excellent braking performance(This feature
is optional for Grade L).
4. Excellent Safety Features - Everyday Driving with More Safety -
- SRS(*) airbags for both the driver and
the passenger side are now standard equipment
(Airbag on the passenger side is optional
for Grade L).
- ABS is now standard equipment on all grades(This
feature is optional for Grade L).
- DSC system which limits skids when making
turn on slippery roads, is equipped for the
first time in its class, and is available
as an option (automatic transmission is available
only to Grade LX-S, GL, and GL-X).
- EBD system which precisely adjusts the
distribution of braking force to front and
back to match changes in the load like the
number of passengers or load changes, is
standard equipment on all models. This ensures
a high level of braking performance at all
times(This feature is optional for Grade
L).
- Brake assist is standard on all models.
It increases the braking force even with
lightly pressing on the brake pedal and supplements
it when the brakes are applied suddenly(This
feature is optional for Grade L).
- Power windows are standard on all models
except Grade L, and the driver side is equipped
with an auto-retract mechanism to prevent
hands or other objects from being caught
accidentally.
(*) SRS: Supplemental Restraint System
| Suggested retail prices (Consumption tax not included) | |
| (In 1000 yen) | |
|
|
| #Photo available in this News Releases. |
Features of "Web-tuned@DEMIO":
Base Model:
DEMIO 1500GL(4AT)
Exterior:
| - Designated black-plated front grille | - Designated black metallic rear garnish |
| - Designated titanium-like coated | - Designated ornament |
| 14-inch aluminum wheels | - Front fog lamps |
| - Designated black-plated doorknob | - Colored side molding |
| - Rear spoiler | - UV-reducing front glass and dark-tinted rear window |
Interior/Equipment:
| - Designated titanium-like center instrument panel | - Designated titanium-like door-trim garnish |
| - Radio tuner/CD and MD player |
Steering:
| - Designated rear performance rod | - 14-inch tires (175/60R14) |
| Suggested retail prices (Consumption tax not included) | |
| (In 1000 yen) | |
| Engine | Grade | Transmission | Suggested retail price |
| 1500 SOHC |
Web-tuned @ DEMIO | 4EC-AT | 1,488 |
