Ask an expert


robnaln

We are looking for a second car. I am not sure what is the best option? Mazda 2 or Mazda Demio? Probably around 3 years old. We will not be doing high mileage in it. Possibly auto. Not sure what the advantages/disadvantages of NZ new versus import?

ABayliss

Basically, these two cars are exactly the same with a different badge, and all things being equal, (mileage, age etc), there should be no difference. However, many of the domestic Japanese Demio models (but not all), use a CVT transmission, so we'd recommend either a Mazda2 or a Demio with the traditional 4 speed automatic transmission.
One big advantage of NZ New is that you should get the full service history, which you usually don't get with an import. Another thing to be mindful of is that cars are supplied from the factory with 2 keys but most Japanese imports seem to arrive with only one key. Generally speaking, New Zealand cars will still have both keys. The reason I advise checking the number of keys is that spare keys are expensive for modern cars with transponders.

Fattchoy

Hi, I note your comment that the two cars are basically the same. However, the site www.rightcar.co.nz somehow lists the Demio with a 3-star safety rating vs the Mazda 2's 4 or 5-star rating. Why is this so?

ABayliss

This is because the Demios listed on the Rightcar website are older vehicles. The car sold as Mazda2 in New Zealand continues to be badged Demio in Japan, so the 3 year old cars robnaln was referring to will be the same car, but badged as Mazda2 in New Zealand and Demio in Japan.
However, if buying a Demio from Japan, while the two cars are basically the same, it would pay to check the level of specification, as it may not be exactly the same spec as a NZ New Mazda2.