By Steve Laser
Mazda offers a wide choice of vehicles at its showrooms in Japan. In addition to an array of SUVs, sedans, hatchbacks, and the sporty Roadster, there’s a big selection of mini-vehicles (“Kei cars”), including the updated Flair Wagon series.
Flair Wagon Tough Style
The redesigned Flair Wagon Tough Style (above and below) joins the recently revamped Flair Wagon and Flair Wagon Custom. And, there’s a separate variation, called Flair Crossover. All are built by Suzuki Motor Corp. in Japan, via an OEM arrangement.
Designed with the theme of active outdoor gear, Flair Wagon Tough Style features round LED headlights, LED fog lights, a chrome-block front grille, and front and rear skid plates said to give it an “SUV-like” feel. Also included are special dark gray 14-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, and side door garnishes.
Tough Style XS features a 660cc DOHC VVT 3-cylinder engine with standard Mild Hybrid system, while the XT delivers a boost in performance with a standard turbocharger. All have a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), along with the choice of 2WD (FWD) or 4WD.
The cabin features water-repellent seat upholstery and door trim, khaki accents on the instrument panel, mesh-style storage pockets on the front seatbacks, and a dirt-resistant cargo floor. A multi-use flap for the rear seats offers the flexibility for foot support or as an ottoman for added comfort.
The driver is treated to a digital speedometer and 4.2-inch TFT LCD multi-information display, plus a separate head-up display, while the leather-wrapped steering wheel has remote control for the audio system and MID. A centrally mounted 9-inch HD screen includes navigation, HDMI input support, Bluetooth®, and smartphone connectivity.
Standard safety features include Dual Sensor Brake Support II, front and rear parking sensors, lane departure warning and prevention, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control with full-speed tracking and stop-hold functions, and omni-directional monitor camera.
Flair Wagon Custom Style
Mazda’s Flair Wagon Custom Style XS and XT Turbo delivers an upscale, contemporary appearance. Exterior styling details include a large chrome and glossy back grille, chrome front lower garnish, a chrome finisher on the tailgate, and bright 15-inch alloy wheels. Custom Style shares the same powertrain choices as the Tough Style.
Custom Style receives distinctive interior details with enhanced materials and colors. Glossy piano black and semi-matte Bordeaux accents abound, while suede-like seat trim gains a leather-like side finish with glossy piping. The upscale list of comfort features includes a standard heated steering wheel.
Flair Wagon
The base Flair Wagon offers XG and XS trims, the naturally aspirated 660cc engine, and choice of 2WD and 4WD. With the standard Mild Hybrid system, Mazda says that energy generated during deceleration is used to generate electricity and charge a dedicated battery. When accelerating, the power assists the engine with the motor, reducing fuel consumption.
Flair Wagon has its own cabin character, with a brown-tone finish and café latte trim. Seats are upholstered with a gray-toned mélange fabric that brings to mind the texture of comfortable outdoor furniture. A navigation system is optional on the XS.
Note: Features and specifications for Japan market models are subject to change without notice. Flair Wagon models are OEM supply from Suzuki Motor Corp.
News source and photos courtesy of Mazda Motor Corp. Photos are posted in this story for editorial use.
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