Photo: Mazda
From its KODO: Soul of Motion design language to its Jinba Ittai “Horse and Rider” philosophy, Mazda flaunts its Japanese heritage. With such an international presence, it’s no surprise that some markets get a different selection of Mazda vehicles than what’s sold in the United States. Here’s a look at what we’re missing:
See How Mazda Stacks Up: The 2019 Mazda CX-9 vs. the 2019 Toyota Highlander
Mazda Carol
Photo: Mazda
The Mazda Carol is a cute, cube-shaped crossover that straddles the line between retro and futuristic. That said, its heritage is decidedly retro — the Carol dates back to 1962. Although Mazda retired the model in 1970, the Carol nameplate found new life in 1989, under the automaker’s Autozam brand. These models were produced by Suzuki, and later models would essentially be rebadged versions of the Suzuki Alto. Currently, this four-wheel drive Kei car is only sold in Japan and Pakistan.
Mazda Bongo Van
Photo: Mazda
Let’s be honest — I chose this topic because I wanted to feature the Mazda Bongo Van. This model dates back to and is currently sold in many markets around the world, including Japan, the UK, and Australia. While it’s a pretty standard van in many regards, it captured my attention during its brief role in the original Mad Max movie. It just so happens that my favorite character smacks a speeding Ford Falcon into a big blue Bongo, sending the hapless van spinning out of control.
Available in America: The Mazda CX-30
Mazda Titan Dump
Photo: Mazda
A Titan Dump isn’t just something the neighbor’s dog left on your lawn — it’s also a Mazda commercial dump truck that’s been in production since 1971. Unlike the premium, sporty Mazda models we enjoy in the US, the Titan Dump is rugged enough to handle the dirtiest jobs. Both the fourth and sixth generation of the Titan Dump were essentially rebadged versions of the hardworking Isuzu Elf.
Mazda Flair Wagon
Photo: Mazda
The Flair Wagon has that same boxy energy as the Honda Element, Kia Soul, and Nissan Cube. With its unique front fascia and a distinctive beltline, there’s no mistaking this Mazda for any of its sleek, streamlined siblings. This little wagon is loaded with safety technology, and it comes standard with a hybrid powertrain that earns a cool 70.5 mpg.
Kimiko Kidd is a native Daytonian. She graduated from Wright State University with degrees in environmental science and sociology. She loves her trusty old Honda Civic, but dreams of owning a 1974 Ford Falcon XB with a custom paint job and a vintage Kawasaki Z1000. In her free time, Kimiko can be found watercolor-painting, baking muffins, collecting rocks, playing old-school Nintendo games, writing her novel, sewing stuffed animals, and cosplaying as her favorite Mad Max characters. See more articles by Kimiko.