Almost two feet shorter than a Miata: Mazda's tiniest SUV gets a tune-up

© mazda.co.jp

Mazda has updated the Flair Crossover — the cheapest crossover in its Japanese line-up. According to Carscoops, the model gets a light facelift, new colours and an expanded suite of safety systems. But it’s worth keeping in mind: this isn’t a global SUV, it’s a kei car sold exclusively in Japan.

The Flair Crossover is a rebadged Suzuki Hustler. Its dimensions are dictated by the rules of Japan’s kei class: 3395 mm long, 1475 mm wide, 1680 mm tall, with a 2460 mm wheelbase. For reference, the Mazda MX-5 is nearly 520 mm longer.

The exterior changes depend on the trim. The XG, XS and XT grades get a larger grille, a bigger Mazda emblem and a reshaped front bumper. The more «rugged» ZS and ZT keep the slim grille and unpainted plastic, but they too have been freshened up. The palette adds a Woodland Khaki Metallic shade and new two-tone combinations.

The main technical upgrade is on the safety side. The Flair Crossover now comes with the Dual Sensor Brake Support II system, pairing a camera with a millimetre-wave radar, plus low-speed braking, front parking sensors, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control with a traffic-jam follow function. Engines carry over: 660 cc three-cylinder mild-hybrid units making 48 or 63 hp, a CVT, and a choice of front- or all-wheel drive.