Mazda launches Special Edition 'Demio' and 'Axela Sport' Models

Exclusive body colors and special interior design provide the Stylish Tone Series with a heightened level of style

HIROSHIMA - November 21, 2006: Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the launch in Japan of the Mazda Demio special edition "Style C" and "Style S" models and the Mazda Axela Sport special edition 23ST and 20ST models. All models come with exclusive body colors and interior design and go on sale nationwide at all Mazda, Mazda Anfini and Mazda Autozam dealers from today.

These special edition models make up part of the Stylish Tone Series, which are products with enhanced style and chic color tones. Mazda plans to extend this concept to certain other vehicles in the Mazda product range.

The Demio (known as the Mazda2 in overseas markets) Style C is based on the Demio Casual, the core model in this product range. The stylish feel and comfort level have been strengthened by the exclusive Icy Blue Metallic body color, specially designed seat upholstery with light-blue highlights, a rear roof spoiler and an advanced keyless entry and starter system.

Mazda Demio Style S (FWD model with 4-speed 'Activematic' AT)

The Demio Style S builds on the features of the Demio Sport model through the special addition of the Cosmic Black Mica body color, custom designed seat upholstery and door trim with red highlights, and genuine leather trim for the steering wheel and shift knob. With these features, it achieves an even more exciting sporty feel.

When the Demio first appeared in 1996 it was hailed as a new type of compact car with eminent packaging and functionality. It underwent a full model change in 2002 and celebrated its tenth anniversary in August 2006. The Demio reached 1 million units of production in September 2006.

Mazda Axela Sport 23ST (FWD model with 5-speed 'Activematic' AT)

The Axela (known as the Mazda3 in overseas markets) Sport special edition 23ST and 20ST models are enhanced versions of the sporty 23S and 20S models. They are specially equipped with chrome outer door handles, 17-inch chrome-finished alloy wheels, exclusive genuine leather seats and leather door trim (black and sand-beige color combination), a Bose® sound system and an adaptor for MP3 music players such as the iPod®. These advanced features improve the vehicle's quality and sporty look.

Manufacturer's suggested retail prices (including consumption tax):

Demio Style C: 1,190,000 - 1,463,000 yen ($10,074 - $12,387 USD)
Demio Style S: 1,560,000 - 1,649,250 yen ($13,206 - $13,962 USD)
Axela Sport 23ST: 2,330,000 yen ($19,723 USD)
Axela Sport 20ST: 2,260,000 yen ($19,129 USD)