Remember the hottest hatch in the earli 1980s? It was the first front-wheel, front-engine Familia from Mazda. It offered a good balance of the various functions like space for 3 adults, quick acceleration and extended luggage space when needed. It was a time when consumers demanded more for their money and Mazda delivered a car at a high level. This is why it was awarded the first Japanese Car of the Year award.
The XGi model, with its red paint, 3 doors and 1500cc engine caused a boom among younger drivers at its introduction in the region and in Malaysia it competed fiercely with the Ford Laser S. The 1980 Familia featured various new technologies for its time, including the SS suspension, the first application of tapered coil springs in its class, fully flat folding front seats, sliding sunroof (electric, manual) and fuel injection.
