In 1992 Mazda was busy expanding their model line-up to build up new sales channels such as Autozam and Eunos. Autozam was aimed at buyers looking for a smaller car such as the AZ-1 or Carol. Mazda decided the brand would need a flagship, and that would become the Clef, a mid-size sedan.
The Clef was based on the technical platform of the Mazda Cronos model in Japan, which was known as Mazda 626 overseas. While many of the components under the skin are similar with the Cronos, the exterior is completely restyled. The front has design cues of the Autozam AZ-3. Overall it has a well rounded design with a coupe style rear end. 5 exterior colors were available. White, dark blue, red, a brighter blue and a goldish silver.
Three different engines were available. A 2 liter 4 cylinder with 125 horsepower, a 2 liter 6 cylinder with 160 horsepower and a 2.5 liter 6 cylinder with 200 horsepower. The 6 cylinder Clef models were front wheel drive though the 4 cylinder model was always four wheel drive.
With a vehicle weight of 1240 to 1310 kg depending on the model, it would seem a fun to have the 6 cylinder engines with a manual transmission. While marketed as luxury sporty saloon, unfortunately Mazda did not set a manual transmission option. All of the models were available with an 4-speed automatic transmission only.
The interior was common with the Cronos. Two options for seat fabrics were available, depending on the grade. The V6 engines could be had in standard or luxury grade while the 4 cylinder version had a standard grade only.
The model was not a success. In total 5258 units were sold over three years.
Click on the picture below to see all Autozam Clef versions per year and detailed specifications such as weight, new price and equipment for each version in the Goo-net.com catalog.
