Electric 4WD Model Added to Mazda Demio Series
- Partially restyled lineup with sporty round motif rear combination lamps, new colors -
| Mazda Motor Corporation has strengthened its popular Mazda Demio compact car lineup with the addition of an electric four-wheel-drive (e-4WD) model and enhancements to current models. The upgraded vehicles go on sale today at Mazda, Mazda Anfini and Mazda Autozam dealers throughout Japan. |
The Mazda Demio e-4WD system uses a motor powered by a dedicated generator to drive the rear wheels. Available on 1.3-liter and 1.5-liter models, the system is compact and designed for smooth, everyday driving. The electronically-controlled system responds to road conditions engaging four-wheel drive when necessary to ensure that even drivers unaccustomed to slippery or snow-covered roads can enjoy secure driving. Furthermore, a switch located on the instrument panel allows the driver to select front-wheel drive when additional traction is not required, thereby providing better fuel efficiency than mechanical four-wheel drive systems.
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Coinciding with the introduction of the new e-4WD model, Mazda has also partially revised existing grades by introducing round motif rear combination lamps for a sportier rear style as well as new exterior and interior colors. These latest refinements are designed to further enhance Demio's stylish appeal.
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| Mazda plans to sell 7,000 units of the Mazda Demio series per month. |
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Mazda Demio Casual e-4WD
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| Special Features of e-4WD
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| 1)
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Superior performance on slippery road surfaces |
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With four-wheel drive mode selected, the motor drives the rear wheels as soon as the accelerator is depressed reducing time lag and providing a smoother start than mechanical four-wheel drive systems. The system also detects front wheel slippage and automatically adjusts rear wheel torque accordingly. Together with front-wheel traction control, the e-4WD system works to minimize front-wheel slip for stable driving on slippery road surfaces and when climbing hills or accelerating from a standing start. |
| 2)
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Cabin space and cargo room equal to that of a front-wheel drive |
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By employing a compact e-4WD system that eliminates the need for a propeller shaft and transfer gearbox, the four-wheel drive Demio secures the same cabin space and luggage room as that of its front-wheel drive counterpart. Moreover, the same popular, versatile seating arrangements are also possible. |
| 3)
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Improved fuel economy |
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In 4WD mode, when no slippage is detected and when the vehicle has reached a constant speed, the e-4WD system disengages the electromagnetic clutch on the rear wheel drive unit and only powers the front wheels. Further, the driver is free to select front-wheel drive at anytime by using the switch on the instrument panel. By changing to front-wheel drive when appropriate the system reduces friction and achieves improved fuel economy compared to mechanical four-wheel drive systems. |
| Note: |
All 4WD vehicles comply with Japanese 2010 Fuel Efficiency Standards and qualify as ultra-low emission vehicles. Cars registered by March 31, 2004 are eligible for a 32,000-yen tax reduction (automobile acquisition tax 15, 000 yen, automobile tax 17,000 yen) under the Green Tax plan. |
| Enhancements to Mazda Demio |
| 1)
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New round motif rear combination lamps |
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Round motif rear combination lamps (popular in Mazda6 and RX-8) create a rear style that fully expresses the sportiness traditionally embodied in all Mazda products. |
| 2)
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New interior colors for Cozy |
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Choice of three new color schemes: Subdued Marron Beige, fresh Mint Blue or soft Lemon Yellow. |
| 3)
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Three new exterior colors |
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Now available in Snow Flake White Pearl Mica, Winning Blue Metallic and Platinum Silver Metallic. |
| 4)
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Other |
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Brown cup holders and door trim garnish in Cozy. |
| - |
New key design. |
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Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (without tax)
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(Unit:1,000 yen) |
| Grade |
Drive |
Engine |
Transmission |
Retail Price |
| Casual e-4WD |
4WD |
1.3L |
4EC-AT |
1,330 |
| Cozy e-4WD |
1,380 |
| Casual e-4WD |
1.5L |
1,505 |
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| - |
Prices of other grades remain unchanged. |
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Add 30,000 yen for Snow Flake White Pearl Mica. |
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