The World Says Goodbye to the Mazda Demio

Mazda has completed its shift to a global nameplate scheme with the discontinuation of the Demio moniker in Japan. After the demise of the Axela and Atenza names, the Demio will cease to exist in Mazda showrooms this September; and in its place is the global Mazda2 nameplate.

Celebrating its shift to the global Mazda2 nameplate, Mazda is heavily revising its sub-compact hatchback for the 2020 model year. Despite its position as the brand’s most affordable offering, the 2020 Mazda2 brings a heightened level of design and craftsmanship to its class.

The exterior gains the same “Evolved KODO” design seen in the Mazda6 and with that, promotes a sense of width, stability, and sculptural expression. The entire front-end is new with a large wing grille, re-sculpted front bumper, and headlights. Redesigned 16-inch alloy wheels complete the look. In terms of technology, it adds Adaptive LED Headlights (ALH) to improve nighttime visibility.

Underneath, it gets tweaks to its suspension for a smoother, more comfortable ride. Like the next-generation Mazda3 and Mazda6, G-Vectoring Control Plus is now standard. Furthermore, both the 1.5-liter Skyactiv-G and Skyactiv-D engines can be had with the i-ELOOP deceleration energy recovery system.

Inside, the 2020 Mazda2 gains new front seats with technology derived from the Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture. With that, it resists head movement enhancing a driver’s sense of stability. The 6-way power adjustable seats (now an available feature) are complemented by an auto-dimming rear view mirror and a Mazda Connect system enhanced with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In terms of safety equipment, the refreshed Mazda2 receives the Mazda Radar Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist System.

For the curious, the name “Demio” is derived from Latin “meus” to show possession, which in many Romance languages has become “mio.” The 2020 Mazda2 goes on sale in Japan on September 12.