Mazda has unveiled the eighth-generation Carol kei car in Japan with a mild-hybrid powertrain. The Carol nameplate was introduced in 1962 for Mazda’s first city car which from 1980 to date has been produced by Suzuki as a rebadged version of the Alto. Since the new generation Alto debuted last month, it was Carol’s turn to receive an update.
Unsurprisingly, the two models look
identical, other than the badges and a small chrome trim on the face of the
Suzuki that doesn’t apply to the Mazda. Thus, the Carol inherits the
boxy-slash-cute styling and compact dimensions of the Alto. More specifically
it measures 3,395 mm long, 1,475 mm wide, and
1,525 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,460 mm.
Mazda announced three trim levels of the
Carol – the GL, the Hybrid GS, and the Hybrid GX. The first is ICE-only, with a
660cc three-cylinder petrol engine producing 48 hp. Power is
sent to the front (2WD) or to all four wheels (4WD) exclusively through a CVT
gearbox. The Hybrid variants add an integrated starter generator (ISG)
producing 2.5 hp (1.9 kW / 2.6 PS) and a lithium-ion battery pack. The most
frugal trim has a fuel consumption of 3.61 lt/100km.
Inside, we find plenty of storage
compartments all around the four-seater cabin. Safety equipment includes 6
Airbags, plus a few basic ADAS systems including dual camera brake support
system, lane departure warning, high beam assist, and brake support when
reversing. Surprisingly the Carol doesn’t get the Alto’s 7-inch infotainment as
all grades come with a plastic panel covering the area between the climate
control vents. However, higher trims do get features like LED headlights,
14-inch alloy wheels, and automatic air-conditioning.
Mazda Alto will be available in Japan
starting from mid-January 2022. Prices are ranging from ¥ 998,800 (US$ 8,732) up to
¥ 1,303,500 (US$ 11,396), placing it on par with the equivalent Suzuki Alto Hybrid
variants.
