2018 Mazda Demio Review

Detailed Review

The first generation of the Mazda Demio debuted in 1996 and it was produced until 2002.  The second generation of the Demio was manufactured from 2002 to 2007. From 2007 to 2014, the third generation was produced. The Mazda Demio is currently in its fourth generation.

The 2018 Mazda Demio comes with two engine options, a 1.5 L (Petrol), and a 1.5 L (Diesel) linked to either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Click here to purchase the 2018 Mazda Demio Buyer’s Guide. 

 2018 Mazda Demio Grades

1. Mazda Demio 15 C- This grade comes with an air conditioner, a roof spoiler, and Bluetooth connectivity.
2. Mazda Demio 15 MB- This grade has power windows, AM/FM Radio, privacy glass, and a centralized door lock.
3. Mazda Demio 15 S – This grade boasts a USB port, a 12-volt power output, and power mirrors.
4. Mazda Demio 15 S Mist Maroon- This grade features an anti-lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution, and a four-speaker audio system.
5. Mazda Demio 15 S Noble Crimson- This grade is fitted with a CD player, a power-assisted steering wheel, and an auxiliary audio input.
6. Mazda Demio 15 S Touring- This grade is equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, fog lights, and 15-inch alloy wheels.
7. Mazda Demio 15 S Touring L Package- This grade comes with Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, an AM/FM Radio, and power mirrors.
8. Mazda Demio XD- This grade has electronic brake force distribution, stability control, and an input audio jack for MP3s.
9. Mazda Demio XD Mist Maroon- This grade boasts multiple airbags, a CD player, an air conditioner, and a centralized door lock.
10. Mazda Demio XD Noble Crimson- This grade features a roof spoiler, a 12-volt power output, and a power-assisted steering wheel.
11. Mazda Demio XD Touring- This grade is fitted with a four-speaker sound system, a USB input, and an anti-lock braking system.
12. Mazda Demio XD Touring L Package-  This grade is equipped with electronic brake force distribution, AM/FM Radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and power windows.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2018 Mazda Demio can accommodate five people. It features a beautiful cabin with plastic touches all over the dashboard. The first row has comfortable seats with plenty of legroom and headroom and the seats can be reclined to meet a desired posture. Average-size people will find the second row pleasant while taller passengers may find it crampy due to its limited legroom.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Mazda Demio encompasses several storage compartments that are intended to improve the comfort of passengers. The first row has door panel storage, two cupholders, a small center console, and a glove box compartment. The second-row passengers have access to door pockets.

Boot Space

The 2018 Mazda Demio has a sizeable boot space to haul small and medium-sized cargo. The second-row seats can be retracted to create more room.

Exterior

The 2018 Mazda Demio sports a compact body design that accentuates a contemporary and refined appearance that will undoubtedly attract attention. The Demio is identifiable courtesy of the Mazda’s distinctive grille that is used in many brands of the Mazda. The angular headlamps and LED daytime running lights give this car an upscale look. Owing to its slanting hood, occupants enjoy an excellent view of what is forthcoming. Air vents in the lower fascia play a big role in cooling the radiator which in turn cools the engine so as to avoid overheating.

Nicely done contours on the conservative side profile aid in improving the aerodynamics. The door handles and the mirror caps are body-colored but depending on the owner’s preference, carbon fiber embellishments can be added to make this car look more unique.

The rear end features a tail light and turn signals as well as a roof spoiler that not only enhances the sportiness of the Demio but also improves its overall appearance.

2018 Mazda Demio Safety Features

The 2018 Mazda Demio features multiple airbags, an anti-lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution, traction control, and brake assist.

2018 Mazda Demio Fuel Consumption

2018 Mazda Demio 1.5 L petrol engine consumption- 17.9 km/l on average

2018 Mazda Demio 1.5 L diesel engine consumption- 18.9 km/l on average

2018 Mazda Demio Acceleration

2018 Mazda Demio 1.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.9 secs

2018 Mazda Demio 1.5 L diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.6 secs

The 2018 Mazda Demio Fuel Tank Capacity: 44 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2018 Mazda Demio has a ground clearance of 6.0 inches which is below the required standard of 6.5 inches on Kenyan roads.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

Mazda Demio spare parts are easily available in major towns. However, its body components like the headlights and side mirrors are more expensive compared to other vehicles in the same category.

Stability And Handling

The 2018 Mazda Demio has an agile and pleasant ride. The driver will have enjoyable and effortless control as the steering wheel is power-assisted hence it gives responsive feedback especially when cornering. The suspension protects passengers from jarring movements and the cabin is well-insulated to prevent outside noise from causing discomfort to the occupants. The brakes are robust enough and capable of bringing this car to a halt in order to avoid any kind of disaster.

The Demio sits on a rigid chassis that enhances its stability. Its approach and departure angles as well as its low ground clearance limit it from being driven off-road as you risk damaging its body components that could be very expensive to repair or replace them. As much as the Demio has a lower center of gravity that allows it to corner at a faster speed, it is recommended to slow down when approaching tight bends so as to avoid any kind of casualties.

This car further comes standard with SkyActiv technology that is designed to improve fuel efficiency while simultaneously delivering a responsive and pleasant ride. Traction control, electronic brake force distribution, and anti-lock braking system are incorporated in the Demio to improve its stability.

Reliability

The 2018 Mazda Demio is considered a reliable car. However, its low ground clearance hinders it from exploiting off-road terrains as its body components could be damaged. Transmission troubles and clutch issues in manual models are the most commonly reported problems in the Demio. Regular service and maintenance are required to avoid experiencing such problems.

Click here to purchase the 2018 Mazda Demio Buyer’s Guide. 

Resale Value: Good

Mazda Demio Competitors: Toyota Vitz, Honda Fit, VW Polo, Ford Fiesta, and Nissan Note.

What we like about the 2018 Mazda Demio

Excellent fuel economy

Advanced modern features

What we don’t

Limited engine options

Low ground clearance

Conclusion

The 2018 Mazda Demio boasts a formidable following in the Kenyan space owing to its excellent fuel economy, agile handling, and stylish exterior design. It encompasses advanced safety features as well as SkyActiv technology that makes it highly competitive in its category. Business-oriented persons can use this car as a taxi for they can maximize their profits as the Demio is fuel efficient. Folks on a tight budget will have a perfect choice in the Demio as its acquisition price is not exorbitant. Click here to download the 2018 Mazda Demio Owner’s Manual.