As is often the case with the most interesting Japanese cars, it takes time for them to arrive overseas. In some cases, they don't come at all, giving rise to the catchphrase "automotive forbidden fruit". While the all-new Mazda2 supermini will be distributed globally, its domestic launch comes first and brings with it many features that won't be seen elsewhere.
A launch event held on September 11 announced the all-new Demio, as it's called in Japan, will be available from 1,350,000 yen, prices going as high as 2,192,400 yet (equivalent to $12,600 and $20,400, respectively) . Two different engines are available, either a 1.3-liter DOHC naturally aspirated petrol or a new 1.5-liter Skyactiv-D diesel, which promises to bring the lowest fuel consumption of any non-hybrid model in the country.
In both cases, the engines can be matched to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed conventional automatic. Although now assembled in Thailand, the Japanese model continues to be offered with all-whee drive as an option. This is something very few B-segment hatchbacks sold in America or Europe have ever offered.
The color choices for the new Mazda are just as diverse as those on a Renault Clio or Ford Fiesta, if not more so. They include light brown, a soft shade of pink and pearl white. The interior can also be had with leather seats and looks as well made as anything we've seen on the bigger Mazda3.
In both cases, the engines can be matched to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed conventional automatic. Although now assembled in Thailand, the Japanese model continues to be offered with all-whee drive as an option. This is something very few B-segment hatchbacks sold in America or Europe have ever offered.
The color choices for the new Mazda are just as diverse as those on a Renault Clio or Ford Fiesta, if not more so. They include light brown, a soft shade of pink and pearl white. The interior can also be had with leather seats and looks as well made as anything we've seen on the bigger Mazda3.