Mazda Carol (HB37/97S)

Following the launch of the ninth-generation Suzuki Alto, the Mazda equivalent known as the Carol is not left behind as it follows suit to the Alto's regeneration that is ready to take on the new normal with its record-breaking fuel economy and simple design that truly reflects Japan's civilized society.

With an MSRP of 998,800 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the all-new Carol is the reinvention of a modern kei car that will take on the challenges of the new normal. Although it remains compact as it should be, the new Carol features an adorable new design that suits its size and personality. When you take it on a Sunday afternoon drive at Hakone, the new Carol has a charming personality that soothes away your stress all the way home.

The interior, meanwhile, raises a bountiful of questions especially from those who have driven the previous model because the dashboard looks nearly identical to its predecessor. Despite the questionable dashboard, it still incorporates the "simple is best" mantra and it's slightly roomier than the previous model, meaning it still accommodates up to four people without worry. The same goes for the boot space as well.

Now running on the HEARTECT platform, the all-new Carol drives better than the previous model, and thanks to some reworking underneath, the minimum turning radius is now 4.4m Not only does it feel nicer to drive, it's soothing as well. It's easy to drive, hard to regret, even on a quiet Sunday drive in the woods.

The base Carol is powered by the R06A 660cc 3-cylinder DOHC 12V EPI engine with ENE-CHARGE that produces 46PS of power, 55Nm of torque, and mated to a CVT, it delivers a fuel economy of 25.2kmpl based on WLTC Mode standards. However, to get the most out of the new model, you can opt-in for the HYBRID variant which comes with a tiny WA04C motor and a Li-ion battery. This mild-hybrid powertrain grants you 27.7kmpl of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards.

True to its simple character, the new Alto comes with a Collision Damage Mitigation Brake and Pedal Mistake Sudden Start Suppression Device, making it a certified "Support Car S Wide".

So, if you need a ninth-generation Suzuki Alto but your nearest dealer is a Mazda dealer, the new Carol is within reach.

Photo: Mazda Motor Corporation