Reviews - Mazda

Overall Rating

A high roof line puts this car into the mini people-carrier class, but it lacks anything resembling character, refinement or performance. Mazda stopped selling in 2003.

• Upright body is practical, roomier than many rivals
• Affordable to buy, cheap to run
• Easy to drive with excellent reliability

• Elderly technology - developed from the obsolete 121
• Safety and security are below par by modern standards
• 1.3 is slightly underpowered

If this is the size and style of car you're after, keep looking, for there are far better alternatives out there - Toyota's Yaris Verso for one. The Demio's ride is harsh, the interior is tacky, the automatic transmission is dire and the seats lack comfort. On the plus side, it is likely to be dependable, and the rear seat moves forward to provide more boot space. The 1.3 engine is all noise and little action, while the 1.5 offers only a slight improvement. Why would you buy one of these? No reasons spring to mind.

JD Power stars: 4

Best Models: 1.5 GSi

Worst Models: 1.3 LXi

Replacement: Stopped selling 2003

• Ford Fusion
• Mitsubishi Space Star
• Suzuki Ignis