Did you know that Mazda vehicles become 80 lbs. heavier with each model update? Well, Mazda’s planning to get rid of all that excess weight.

The Japanese carmaker plans to shed its models of at least 220 pounds each. Mazda North America’s senior VP for product planning Robert Davis says that the excess weight is mostly due to added safety equipment and larger wheels.

The weight drop can improve Mazda vehicles’ fuel economy. This could help Mazda in terms of keeping with the 2016 CAFE standards.

Davis also says that new Mazda models may be shorter in order to reduce weight.

Source: AutomobileMag

Here’s another concept car to look forward to in Tokyo this October: the Mazda Kiyora Concept.

Mazda Kiyora Concept

According to Mazda, the Kiyora is equipped with a 1.3-liter, 4-cylinder powerhouse, and is 220 pounds lighter than the 3-door Mazda 2. Transmission is automatic and 6-speed, called the Sky-Drive. The Sky-Drive, also making a debut at the 2009 Tokyo Auto Show, poses improved fuel economy.

Source: Inside Line