Skip to main content

August 7, 2002

Mazda Launches Second All-New Model: Mazda DEMIO

- Three models to suit different customer lifestyles each with exceptional interior space and quality, and class-leading driving dynamics -

Mazda Motor Corporation today announces the introduction of the completely redesigned Mazda DEMIO the second all-new model in a wave of new brand-driven products that will generate the company's product-led growth.


Mazda DEMIO "Cozy" (w/optional equipment)


The new Mazda DEMIO (Mazda2 overseas) builds on the highly functional packaging of its predecessor and now boasts dynamic exterior design, interior quality one rank above the rest, class-leading driving performance, and enhanced safety features. The DEMIO is offered in three lifestyle versions to suit different target customers, each offering a total package of new values in the small car class. It offers customers a sense of liberation created by its relaxed interior atmosphere and fun to drive qualities.

Following Mazda Atenza (Mazda6 overseas) all-new Mazda DEMIO is a true member of the new generation of vehicles from Mazda that embody Mazda's new brand DNA-Stylish, Insightful and Spirited. DEMIO shares Mazda's product philosophy with the Atenza/Mazda6 and fulfills Mazda's brand expression "Zoom-Zoom" (the love of motion that we felt in childhood). It is designed as a new benchmark in the small car class.

The original Mazda DEMIO debuted in August 1996, redefining the small car class. Its exceptional space utility and functional styling was new for a class where "economy" was previously the critical factor. Incorporating a spacious multi-purpose interior which broke the bounds of conventional thinking in small car design, the DEMIO earned a warm reception from customers, and created the standard which rivals now follow. The new Mazda DEMIO has targeted these qualities to create a new definition once again.

On sale throughout Japan at Mazda, Mazda Anfini, and Mazda Autozam dealerships, the monthly sales target of the Mazda DEMIO is 7,000 units.

The following are the five main features of the new DEMIO:
1. The new DEMIO has Mazda's new generation sophisticated and
vibrant athletic exterior.
2. Featuring newly developed MZR 1.3L/1.5L engines, the new DEMIO delivers top-class driving performances, satisfying even demanding drivers who prefer European cars.
3. An innovative "3-cars-from-1" concept. This concept introduces three distinctive models-Cozy, SPORT and Casual-which cater to the lifestyles of a variety of customer groups ranging from young families to single men and single women. The Cozy model sports a newly-developed "White Canvas Top" which fills the cabin with a soft bright light even when closed.
4. The new DEMIO boasts a roomy, comfortable, high-quality interior space with exceptional storage and packaging functionality within a compact body that delivers superior maneuverability (and is convenient for Japanese tower parking systems).
5. Mazda has employed its latest technology in the new DEMIO to achieve a new set of standards in the small car class for safety level, and positively addresses environmental issues.

All-new DEMIO has the following features:

1. Athletic design and quality one rank above the rest
I. Exterior design
The exterior design inherits dynamic athleticism that is part of Mazda's unique brand DNA, while retaining the DEMIO's distinctive form.
- Front view: With sharp, up-slanting headlights and the signatory 5-pointed grille with centrally located Mazda emblem, the DEMIO face displays dynamic and active characteristics.
- Side view: Front and rear fenders are stretched out to emphasize 'wide tread' and well-defined wheel arches with flared guards define the DEMIO's dynamic structure.
- Rear view: Stretched rear fenders provide a dynamic impression, that, together with the horizontally aligned taillights, give the DEMIO a sporty, borderless look.

II. Interior design
Based on a clean, simple cabin layout styled to replicate the easy living atmosphere of one's favorite room, the DEMIO has achieved best-in-class interior quality in the form of elegant panels, superbly coordinated color schemes and trim levels.
- The low, flat instrument panel relays a pleasant openness to occupants. All models feature a center console with subtle polished metal surfaces designed in the image of a home audio system, boasting an interior quality level not available in previous small cars.
- The large speedometer and tachometer are simple and easy to read while driving.

III. Unique craftsmanship devoted to detail
The center console features an integrated design, which is easy to use and aesthetically pleasing with bold audio and climate control switches. Finished in a subtle dimple treatment, the center console employs damper-assisted switches for ease of use. Comfortable for drivers and occupants alike, DEMIO's interior quality levels aims for one rank above the previous level.

IV. Large variety of body colors
A total of ten body colors, which are coordinated with interior, are available. (See the chart below for combinations.)

2. All-new engines and best- in- class handling that anyone can feel
Equipped with a completely redesigned powertrain, suspension, steering, brakes, and body, the DEMIO has achieved excellent sports performance in addition to its ride and comfort performance that will suit all drivers. The new model meets the needs of a wide variety of customers ranging from drivers who traditionally prefer the dynamics of European cars to drivers looking for an easy-to-drive runabout with sense of security.
I. Completely redeveloped MZR 1.3/1.5 engines with exceptional driving performance
The new in-line, four-cylinder MZR 1.3/1.5 engines developed for Mazda's next generation small car have employed new technologies, such as a long intake manifold, continuously variable valve timing mechanism (S-VT: Sequential Valve Timing), and stainless steel long-branched 4-1 exhaust manifold, to achieve excellent driving dynamics, low fuel consumption, and low emissions.

Inline 4-cylinder 1300 DOHC
(MZR1.3)
Inline 4-cylinder 1500 DOHC
(MZR1.5)
Displacement 1,348cc 1,498cc
Max. power(JIS net) 67kW(91PS)/6,000rpm 83kW(113PS)/6,000rpm
Max. torque(JIS net) 124N-m(12.6kg-m)/3,500rpm 140N-m(14.3kg-m)/4,000rpm

II. Chassis performance to please everybody
To achieve Mazda's DNA-inspired "responsive performance and handling," the DEMIO has employed a completely revised MacPherson strut front suspension, torsion beam rear suspension with mono-tube damper, and stronger brakes. The result is exceptional steering, enhanced driving stability, and ride comfort. Further, the brake system with improved response and a better feel supports driving pleasure.

3. "3-cars-from-1" concept with a wide market appeal
Mazda has introduced an innovative "3-cars-from-1" concept. The Cozy, SPORT and Casual models are specially designed to cater to the lifestyles of various customers. All models feature class-leading interior quality levels, driving dynamics and highly functional packaging, but the three lifestyle version have their own distinctive characteristics.
- Cozy (1300 DOHC/1500 DOHC)
The Cozy's pleasant bright interior mainly targets young women and people seeking a more comfortable lifestyle. Featuring a new special color "Honey Yellow," Cozy offers eight different body colors, as well as a choice of three key colors for the interior.
The radical new electric "White Canvas Top" is semi-transparent and lets natural light into the cabin even when it is closed(Available as a manufacturer's option), creating a pleasant bright interior. Employing semi-transparent woven polyester laminated with a durable fluorocarbon resin, the closed roof fills the cabin with a soft light similar to that of a white awning-covered open-air cafe. The roof restricts ultra-violet rays from penetrating the cabin and heat build-up in the cabin in the same way as a normal roofed car. Boasting unprecedented open air dimensions of 727mm in length and 636 mm in width, the roof opens to a limit behind the eye point of rear passengers. A collapsible deflector prevent wind noise and buffeting while driving.
A more luxurious Super Cozy model is also on offer as an optional package. Featuring leather seats and a white wood-like genuine leather wrapped steering wheel, the Super Cozy's interior offers a refined taste and relaxed ambience.

- SPORT (1500 DOHC)
The SPORT, portraying a dynamic image, mainly targets people who enjoy driving while seeking a free and active lifestyle. The SPORT comes equipped with the MZR1.5 engine and 4-speed Activematic transmission for sporty performance.
Available in its new theme color "Spicy Orange Mica," the SPORT is fitted with HID headlights, 15-inch alloy wheels, and aero bumpers to convey a strong, sporty image. The interior, however, is bathed in dark blue with metal-like accents to create a cool and sporty ambience.

- Casual (1300 DOHC/1500 DOHC)
The Casual appeals through its simple, fun to use theme. Target customers are families who seek a simple and natural lifestyle. Available in seven body colors, the Casual's interior is based on light gray expressing an image of classic simplicity.

4. Packaging with further improved DEMIO's unique street presence
Inheriting the original DEMIO's high efficiency packaging, the new model takes that quality one step further and boasts an easy-to-use, spacious, multi-purpose cabin to cater to the lifestyles of a wide range of customers.
I. A body size that compliments its exceptional dynamics
The new DEMIO is 3925mm in overall length, and 1680mm in overall width. With a height of 1530mm (1545mm with canvas top or roof rail model), the new model can also fit in just about any Japanese tower parking station. Sitting on the widest tread (front 1475mm/ rear 1450mm) and with an optimally balanced wheelbase of 2490mm, the DEMIO driver will enjoy superb steering maneuverability and stability.

II. Roomy interior space
The new DEMIO has achieved a roomier interior through a combination of well-executed design revisions. Compared to the original model, the front seat width is expanded by 38mm, and a concave door trim design is incorporated to enhance elbow-room. The shoulder space between passengers has increased to 1358mm in the front and 1348mm in the rear.

III. Easy handling no matter what physique
The new DEMIO has employed a front seat slide distance of 250mm (with 10mm pitch) and a 55mm (stepless) ratchet operated seat lifter on the driver's side. When the lifter is operated, the seat back and cushion tilts forward slightly. And with a steering tilt function of 45mm, drivers from 150cm to 190cm can easily find their best driving position in a matter of seconds. To further enhance ride comfort, a large armrest that can be set at different angles is employed for the first time in the small car class.

IV. Rear doors open to 80°-easier entry and exit
With rear doors that open to an angle of 80° (previously 67°) and maintaining same door width as current model, the DEMIO has achieved top-level rear door accessibility, even in tight parking spaces. Child seat fitting and removal has been made easier too.

V. Improved seat arrangement-simpler and easier to fold
The DEMIO has employed a 50:50 split rear seat back that can be collapsed with a one-touch levers. The levers can be reached from the rear passenger doors or from inside the rear tailgate. The spring loaded mechanisms pull up the entire rear seat, and folds it to rest neatly behind the front seat backs. There is no need to remove the headrests to achieve a flat cargo area.

VI. Square flat luggage space makes loading easier
The new square rear luggage space enables two complete mountain bikes (with front wheels fitted) to be loaded thanks to a non-protruding suspension tower design. The combination of a lower rear bumper height, larger rear tailgate opening, and flat luggage space floor facilitates cargo loading and unloading with ease.

VII. Folding board enhances luggage space
The rear luggage space can be split efficiently between upper and lower sections by employing a removable folding board that sits between the two rear wheel housings. The board itself folds in half, allowing items placed on the floor to be easily reached. Tall or long items can be also stored. (Available as an optional equipment)

VIII. Four new features improve storage functionality
1) Multi-purpose glovebox (with clean box): Stores license, registration and tissue box among other things. It contains a removable clean box that is also washable and can be used as a trash bin.
2) Front cup holder and rear door pocket with bottle holder: Two cup holders for front passengers and left and right hand rear side door pockets that can hold 500ml drink bottles.
3) Upper tray with lid: Located in the center of the dashboard, it may be used to store CDs and small items. It is located within easy reach for both the driver and front seat passenger.
4) Instrument panel side tray (passenger side): Designed to prevent objects from falling. It may be used to store CDs, cosmetics and other small items.

5. High level active and passive safety features, and positive environmental measures
- Active safety features: All model are equipped with the 4W-ABS, brake assist and EBD(Electronic Brake Force Distribution System). The DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) is optional on all automatic models. They provide a high degree of maneuvering stability even under the worst driving conditions.

- Passive safety features: All models are fitted with Mazda's high integrity, high safety body structure. In addition to dual-stage frontal SRS *1 airbags which activate depending on impact intensity, all models offer optional SRS curtain and front side airbags. The new DEMIO also features a intrusion minimizing brake pedal to minimize the incidence of lower leg injuries to drivers.

- All models are awarded a rating of E-LEV ("Excellent Low Emission Vehicle" designated by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport) by achieving a 50% reduction in exhaust emissions from 2000 regulatory levels, and clear Japan's 2010 fuel-efficiency standards. Therefore, all models are eligible for special tax breaks under Japan's Green Tax Law. *2 Mazda has also achieved recycling efficiency of more than 90%, while actively working to reduce the use of materials that contain lead, which is harmful to the environment.

*1 "SRS" stands for "Supplemental Restraint System."
*2 Newly registered vehicles up to March 31, 2003 are eligible for special Tax Reductions in the Automobile Acquirement Tax (A reduction of 15,000 yen for private vehicles) and the Automobile Tax (E-LEV is eligible for a 25% tax break for two years, starting from the fiscal year after the purchase of the vehicle.)

Color Variations
Model Interior Color Pure
White
Sunlight
Silver
Metallic
Sparkling
Silver
Metallic
Classic
Red
Passion
Red
Mica
Splash
Green
Mica
Strut
Blue
Mica
Honey
Yellow
Spicy
Orange
Mica
Starry
Blue
Mica
Exterior Color
SPORT Dark Blue

*

*
*
*
* *
Cozy Beige/Mimosa Yellow *
* *
Beige/MintGreen
* *
*
Beige/RosePink
* *
Super
Cozy
Beige (Leather) *
*
*
Casual Light Gray * *
* * * *
*

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices
(Japan only/excluding tax)
(Unit: 1,000 yen)
Model Engine Transmission Retail price
SPORT I4 1500DOHC Activematic 1,535
5MT 1,450
Cozy I4 1500DOHC 4EC-AT 1,370
I4 1300DOHC 4EC-AT 1,235
Casual I4 1500DOHC 4EC-AT 1,285
5MT 1,210
I4 1300DOHC 4EC-AT 1,145
5MT 1,070
close