New special needs model provides improved user-friendliness and greater peace of mind -HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the launch of its redesigned Mazda AZ-Wagon i, a special needs vehicle equipped with a sloping access ramp for wheelchairs. The new model is based on the fully redesigned AZ-Wagon micro-mini that was launched in Japan in September 2008. Sales commence today at all Mazda, Mazda Anfini, and Mazda Autozam dealerships throughout Japan.The new AZ-Wagon i has a wide opening at the rear and a spacious cabin with a high roof. Other enhancements designed for wheelchair users include a new three-point seatbelt and a handrail on both sides of the rear cabin, as standard equipment. Additionally, user-friendliness is also improved for caregivers by a sloping entry/exit ramp that is gentler than the previous model.Main features of the all-new AZ-Wagon i-New three-point seatbelt for wheelchair users (the previous model was equipped with a two-point seatbelt)-A handrail on both sides of the rear cabin provides extra support and comes as standard equipment-Easier wheelchair access due to the lower floor and gentler sloping ramp-Anti-theft immobilizer fitted as standard equipment