Mazda Releases Redesigned AZ-Wagon i for Wheelchairs in Japan

Mazda AZ-Wagon i for Wheelchairs in Japan

By Zack Newmark
March 12, 2009 9:30 PM
Filed Under: Design, Japanese, Lifestyle, Mazda

People with disabilities are getting a new road option in Japan, courtesy of Mazda. The company has just released a redesigned version of the Mazda AZ-Wagon i.

Some of the features on the wagon include a lowered floor, and an easier-to-use retractable ramp, to give improved access to those in wheelchairs. Also making things a bit easier is the wider rear opening, meaning even the most cumbersome chairs can fit right in. Those in wheelchairs now get the benefit of a handrail on either side, and a three-point seatbelt. An anti-theft system also comes as standard.

The AZ-Wagon i is based on the new AZ-Wagon micro-mini launched domestically last September. The Mazda AZ-Wagon i will be priced at ¥1,497,000 ($15,531) as a three-seater, and ¥1,521,000 ($15,780) with optional folding rear fourth seat. The vehicle goes on sale today in Japan.

Source: Mazda

Press Release (Click to expand)

Mazda Releases Redesigned AZ-Wagon i in Japan

- New special needs model provides improved user-friendliness and greater peace of mind -

HIROSHIMA, Japan-Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the launch of its redesigned Mazda AZ-Wagon i, a special needs vehicle equipped with a sloping access ramp for wheelchairs. The new model is based on the fully redesigned AZ-Wagon micro-mini that was launched in Japan in September 2008. Sales commence today at all Mazda, Mazda Anfini, and Mazda Autozam dealerships throughout Japan.

The new AZ-Wagon i has a wide opening at the rear and a spacious cabin with a high roof. Other enhancements designed for wheelchair users include a new three-point seatbelt and a handrail on both sides of the rear cabin, as standard equipment. Additionally, user-friendliness is also improved for caregivers by a sloping entry/exit ramp that is gentler than the previous model.

Main features of the all-new AZ-Wagon i

- New three-point seatbelt for wheelchair users (the previous model was equipped with a two-point seatbelt)
- A handrail on both sides of the rear cabin provides extra support and comes as standard equipment
- Easier wheelchair access due to the lower floor and gentler sloping ramp
- Anti-theft immobilizer fitted as standard equipment

Manufacturer’s suggested retail prices for the all-new AZ-Wagon i

Model	Engine	Drive	Transmission	Seating capacity	Price (yen)
AZ-Wagon i	DOHC VVT	FWD	4-speed AT	3	1,497,000
				4	1,521,000

-	The prices include vehicle and accessories. The AZ-Wagon i is exempt from Japan’s consumption tax.
-	A separate recycling fee of 11,640 yen is necessary in addition to the manufacturer’s suggested prices listed above.
-	The four-seat version has a folding rear seat; the three-seat version has no rear seat.