2002 Mazda MX Sport Runabout

Original name: マツダMXスポーツランナバウト

MX Sport Runabout

Mazda's new generation DNA in small car form

Mazda MX Sport Runabout inherits the key attributes of Mazda's new brand and product DNA. It boasts dynamic athletic styling and is instantly recognizable as a Mazda from the "family face" with its five-point grill face and distinctive light cluster, which echoes that of the Atenza. The exterior creates the right balance between emotional Mazda design and the visual communication of a world-class package. This was achieved by graphically emphasizing the cabin area while maintaining the Mazda surface language. Short overhangs and large-diameter wheels positioned well into the corners of the body, help the MX Sport Runabout convey a clear sense of stability.

Interior lifestyle environment with exceptional quality

To reflect the fun-to-drive message of the MX Sport Runabout, the concept model's bodywork is finished in bright and distinctive yamabuki orange. The interior is a lifestyle environment with quality that is exceptional in this market segment. The interior is light beige color-themed with chocolate lowlights on the upper instrument panel and door trim together with metal-coated audio panel and door trim insert to enhance chic, sophisticated, and sporty design.

Mazda Head of Design, Moray Callum explained. "MX Sport Runabout gives the occupants an atmosphere where they can literally 'feel at home'. Using architectural design principles, the interior emphasizes the efficient use of space, at the same time expressing comfort and an inviting atmosphere. This is achieved through a careful balance of form, materials, textures and colors."

"The interior has all the expected and required functions of a modern family car - however, they have been integrated with an emphasis on familiarity to what the customer uses everyday at home, such as the influence of modern audio units on the center panel."

Excellent packaging functionality

Through clever packaging, the five-door MX Sport Runabout delivers maximum space and flexibility within compact overall dimensions providing an outstanding blend of comfort, functionality and top-level safety. Even though the compact body measures just 3,900 mm in overall length, 1,720 wide and 1,550mm high, the 2,50mm wheelbase provides the spacious passenger room of a much larger car, allowing four adults to travel in complete comfort. Through flexible and easy-to-use storage space, MX Sport Runabout is capable of carrying two complete mountain bikes thanks to a non-protruding suspension tower design. It also has a one-touch rear seat double folding function, as seen on Atenza.

Dynamic performance providing class-leading handling and ride comfort

MX Sport Runabout delivers Mazda's "fun-to-drive" driving dynamics through precise handling and a high level of driving performance thanks to enhanced body rigidity and newly developed suspension. Ride comfort and braking performance are also exceptional for the small car class. MX Sport Runabout is powered by a newly-developed, state-of-the-art 1.5-liter in-line four-cylinder DOHC S-VT engine with four-speed automatic transmission. It delivers an optimum mix of outstanding performance, economy and environmental friendliness.

Mazda MX Sport Runabout Specifications

Dimensions

Overall length

3,900 mm

Overall width

1,720 mm

Overall height

1,550 mm

Wheelbase

2,500 mm

Engine

Type