The Mazda Demio all began when the Ford Motor Company approached Mazda in regards to create a small car for its B-segment market. The result of this cooperation was realized with the introduction of the Ford Festiva in 1987. Using the same platform, Mazda developed the Autozam Revue in 1990. That was later sold as the Mazda 121 in the majority of markets. Although the Festiva was redesigned in 1993, it was still largely based on the same platform as before.
In 1996, after the redesign and modifications, Mazda came up with a tall hatchback type model. This even resembled a smallish mini van. The Mazda Demio surprised everyone when it hit the market place for the first time. It was a smashing success in its naïve Japan, producing some very impressive sales numbers.
The brand new design of the Demio in 1996 used the DW platform for its production model. Sold under the nameplates of the 121 outside Japan, and Metro in the Australian market. The new Mazda Demio incorporated a redesigned exterior and also a cabin air filtration system that were done in 2000. They also returned to and automatic transmission, which proved to be more popular then the standard or manual variety. The original model under the DW platform was manufactured in Mazda’s Columbian facilities. It was later replaced by their DE model, the Mazda 2.
In 2002 the Demio was remade based on the DY platform and while the Demio name was still used through out Japan, it was known as the Mazda2 in the rest of the world. Along with the newly named Mazda2, the Demio became widely recognized as a very fun and also extremely practical car to drive. This helped Mazda elevate its Japanese domestic sale to seventh place.
All these new Demios come complete with ABS (anit-locking braking system) and a unique stability control system was an added option. Mazda also offered the Demio in a hybrid version that incorporated an electric engine at the back to provide power to the rear wheels when the front ones began to spin. Although this added option did give the Demio added traction and control, it did nothing in increase its fuel efficiency.
The trim levels that Mazda made available where each specifically targeted to the different demographics that made up the market place. They had a casual design for the young families. The cozy was designed for single women and also came with special paint colors and a canvas sun roof was offered as an option. The last one that Mazda added was the sport model designs. Of course, this model was targeted at young men specifically. All these varieties and options were only available for the Japanese market.
In 2007 Mazda made a radical departure from the 2002 Demio models. They created what was to be known as a ‘micro sport coupe’. Sold under the banner of the Mazda2 else where, it was still recognized as the Demio in Europe and Japan. The newly designed Demio or Mazda2 was constructed using the DE platform. It employed light weighted materials and reduced over size. Mazda also developed a new 1.3 L and 1.5 L engines that came standard with a five speed manual or four speed automatic transmissions.
