If you’re comparing the older Mazda Demio 1.3 petrol with the newer 1.5 petrol Demio, especially the DJ-generation Demio/Mazda2, the 1.5 is more than just a bigger engine.
Main changes
Engine size:
1.3L → 1.5L SKYACTIV-G.
Power:
The 1.5 generally gives noticeably stronger acceleration and better performance when overtaking or carrying passengers.
Torque: The 1.5 has more pulling power, so it feels less strained on hills and at higher speeds.
Fuel consumption: The 1.3 is generally slightly more economical, but the 1.5 is still very fuel-efficient because of Mazda’s SKYACTIV technology.
Transmission: Many DJ Demios use Mazda’s 6-speed SKYACTIV-Drive automatic, giving smoother and more responsive shifting. Mazda introduced the 1.3 petrol and 1.5 diesel in Japan for the fourth-generation Demio.
Driving feel: The 1.3 is ideal for town driving and economy; the 1.5 feels more lively and confident on highways.
Body/chassis: The newer DJ generation also received a lighter and stiffer body, with Mazda reporting about 7% lower body-in-white weight and 22% higher torsional rigidity compared with the previous model.
Features: Depending on the grade, the 1.5 versions tend to come with higher trim levels and more equipment, so don’t assume every 1.5 has the same specifications.
For the Kenyan market: if you’re choosing between a 1.3 and 1.5 Demio, I’d generally pick the 1.5 if the price difference isn’t large. You get better highway performance without giving up much in fuel economy.
Important: There are different 1.5 Demio engines. The 1.5 petrol SKYACTIV-G is very different from the 1.5 SKYACTIV-D diesel, which produces up to 250 Nm of torque and uses a turbocharger.
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