First Look: Updated Mazda2

Mazda Motor Corporation has updated its mainstay Demio compact car for the Japanese market. Mazda began taking pre-orders today for the facelifted Mazda Demio (known overseas as the Mazda2). The sales launch is scheduled for June 30, 2011.

The updated Demio offers enhanced levels of driving pleasure and a more comfortable ride feel. Additionally, the brand new "13-SKYACTIV" model grade delivers both a linear and pleasing ride and outstanding fuel economy of 30.0km/L (10-15 mode test cycle) or 25.0km/L (Japan's new JC08 test cycle).

The Demio is the first model to feature Mazda's breakthrough SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. The 13-SKYACTIV model grade is powered by the newly-developed 1.3-liter direct injection "SKYACTIV-G 1.3" gasoline engine, which achieves exceptional efficiency thanks to the world's highest compression ratio of 14.0:1. It is also the first Demio to feature Mazda's unique idling stop system, i-stop, which has been updated to operate more frequently. The improved i-stop also requires less fuel to restart, and achieves a smoother, almost instantaneous restart. With the combination of the SKYACTIV-G 1.3 engine, i-stop and other innovative technologies, the Demio 13-SKYACTIV delivers outstanding environmental performance.

Additionally, the 13-SKYACTIV also features "intelligent-Drive Master" (i-DM), the world's first driver aid that supports enjoyable driving while encouraging a driving style that enhances passenger comfort and improves fuel economy. The i-DM display on the dashboard indicates the driver's inputs at the controls in real time, and provides an overall score and practical advice at the end of each trip.

The new 13-SKYACTIV model has an extensive list of standard features, including i-stop, i-DM, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS) and exclusive 14-inch alloy wheels. The manufacturer's suggested retail price starts from 1,400,000 yen (SGD 21,526).

Credits: wilswong