MAZDA'S Demio multi-functional small car which has already proved a hit in Japan could be coming to the UK if customers give their thumbs-up to a concept model on display at the show. It is the first time the five-door car has been seen in Europe.

A spokesman for Mazda in the UK said a decision would be made soon after the show with vehicles potentially entering showrooms in August. While 28mm shorter than the Mazda 121 the car looks much larger and its layout puts it very much in the Renault Scenic category. Rear seats can be folded flat leaving the load area capable of holding two mountain bikes.

The high roofline and low floor height means easy loading and unloading and the rear seats are higher than the front seats giving improved visibility. The rear seats also slide and recline for extra legroom. If the 1.3-litre-engined Demio comes to Britain it will be Mazda's third model launch in the UK this year following on from the 626 estate and new MX-5.