Discover the Mazda Demio: History, Engine & Features

The Mazda Demio, known globally as the Mazda2, is a 5-door, 5-seater hatchback produced by the Japanese manufacturer Mazda. First introduced in 1996, the Demio has evolved through four generations, with the current generation in production since 2014. While the Demio name was used worldwide initially, from 2002 onward it was marketed as Mazda2, with the Demio name retained only in Japan until it was officially retired in 2019.
The first generation was produced from 1996–2002, the second from 2002–2007, the third from 2007–2014, and the fourth generation from 2014 to the present. Due to its long production run and strong reputation, the Demio is widely available on the used car market. At BE FORWARD, used Mazda Demio prices range from US$ 590 to US$ 21,590, depending on model year, condition, and specifications.
The Demio has earned several prestigious awards over the years, including Japan Car of the Year (1997) for the first generation, World Car of the Year (2008) for the third generation, and Japanese Car of the Year for the fourth generation.
Under the Hood
The first-generation Demio was built on Mazda’s DW (D) platform. It initially came with a 1.3-liter B3-ME inline-4 petrol engine producing 84 HP, later joined by a 1.5-liter B5-ME engine producing 99 HP. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic.
The second generation, built on the DY platform, introduced Mazda’s Z-series engines. Buyers could choose between a 1.3-liter ZJ-VE engine producing 90 HP or a 1.5-liter ZY-VE engine producing 111 HP. Mazda also introduced e-4WD, using an electric motor to power the rear wheels when additional traction was required.
The third generation Demio, based on the DE platform, focused on weight reduction and efficiency. Engine options included the familiar 1.3-liter and 1.5-liter petrol engines, along with a 1.5-liter SkyActiv-D turbo-diesel engine producing 103 HP. Transmission choices expanded to include CVT, alongside manual and automatic options.
The fourth generation, based on a variation of the Mazda CX-5 platform, introduced advanced technologies such as i-STOP (automatic engine stop/start) and i-ELOOP (brake energy regeneration). Engine options include 1.5-liter SkyActiv-G petrol, SkyActiv-D diesel, and SkyActiv-Hybrid, paired with 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmissions.
Interior
The first-generation Demio featured a versatile interior with a sliding rear seat and adjustable luggage space ranging from 365 to 679 liters. Its high roof and large windows gave the cabin an airy feel.
The second generation improved comfort and equipment, offering features such as electric windows, power mirrors, adjustable steering wheel, and multiple trim levels across markets.
The third generation provided improved headroom and a 280-liter boot, expandable to 960 liters with folded seats. The dashboard featured a clean, driver-focused design.
The fourth generation offers a more modern interior with USB connectivity, supportive front seats, smart storage solutions, and a maximum boot space of 787 liters when rear seats are folded.

Exterior
The first and second generations fell into the supermini class, often equipped with roof rails and rear spoilers. The third generation transitioned fully into a hatchback design and introduced a three-door version in select markets. Its smooth body lines and signature “grinning” grille gave it a sporty yet friendly appearance.
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Features & Safety
Standard features across most Demio models include air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, audio system, USB/AUX input, keyless entry, and folding rear seats. Higher trims add alloy wheels, fog lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and upgraded audio systems.
In terms of safety, early models offered only a driver airbag, but from the second generation onward, dual airbags, ABS, and EBD became standard. The fourth generation significantly improved safety with side and curtain airbags, traction control, brake assist, and enhanced stability systems. Browse our Mazda Demio stocklist and find your perfect match.