Monthly Motor - June 2014

Concept
Mazda Hazumi – KODO goes compact
One look at Mazda’s new generation
models, the Mazda CX-5, Mazda 6,
and Mazda 3, confirms that the KODO
design is defined by a dynamic, living
expression of motion. The Hazumi is
yet another example of KODO’s vast
potential and how well it adapts to
different vehicles of different sizes.
T
he concept’s name is a good fit both for
the look of the car and its target market.
Hazumi is a Japanese word meaning to
“bound” or “spring up” and was chosen to
convey an image of a small but vigorous
animal, bursting with energy.
The headlamps and grille are positioned low to
the ground as possible, giving the front face a sharp
look. The LED guiding rings add depth and solidity
to the headlamps. Another KODO trademark, the
aluminium signature wing, underscores the grille
before cutting through the headlamps, imparting
a deeply sculptured facial expression. With
its short overhangs and pillars the Hazumi displays
the athletic silhouette of a sports car when
viewed from the side.
The aluminium wheels feature a dynamic
design. The contrast between the radiant sheen
produced by the aluminium milling process and
the dark metallic paint give the wheels a taut,
three-dimensional feel. A long line starts from
the bonnet, crests over the front wheel and runs
all the way to the rear, while an overlapping line
peaks over the rear wheel. The firmly planted
rear wheels support the high hipline and the
steeply inclined back window. The distinctive
oblong rear combination lamps echo the look
of the headlamps.
The Mazda Hazumi also marks the world
premiere of the SKYACTIV-D 1.5. This compact
and lightweight clean diesel engine is
designed for ultra-efficient internal combustion
just like the bigger SKYACTIV-D 2.2. The
engine offers dynamic performance and great
efficiency. This model also features i-ACTIV-
SENSE advanced safety technologies based on
Mazda Proactive Safety. This is Mazda’s safety
philosophy aiming to maximise the range of
conditions in which the driver can drive safely
and minimise the risks that lead to accidents.
Speed is at the essence of the interior
shapes, which spread out from above the instrument
cluster to the door trim and centre console.
The instrument cluster is designed around
the driver’s centre axis. It features a single, centrally-positioned
gauge with displays on either
side. The passenger space begins immediately
with an instrument panel shaped like the wing
of an airplane, creating a comfortable feeling of
openness. The centre console is suspended like
a bridge, enhancing the feeling of space and
creating more room in the foot wells. The interior
is designed with black leather as the base
and white leather used in certain places such
as the instrument panel. This modern colourcoordination,
which is both bold and charming,
makes the interior look youthful and refined at
the same time.
Destiny
The Mazda Hazumi Concept is a sneak preview
at the next generation Mazda 2, known by
many here in Kenya as the Demio. The production
version of the Hazumi Concept is already
undergoing tests before its maiden debut.
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MOTOR JUNE 2014
MOTOR JUNE 2014
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