Mazda Bongo: Past vs Present

Introduction: From Utility Van to Modern Multi-Purpose Vehicle

The Mazda Bongo has been a dependable and versatile vehicle in Japan and abroad since the 1960s.
Used as a compact cargo van, truck, or passenger van, the Bongo has served small businesses, tradesmen, municipalities, and families alike.

But how does the original, older-generation Bongo compare to the modern Bongo of today?
This article highlights the key changes in design, engine technology, safety, fuel efficiency, and usage, comparing classic Bongos (1990s–early 2000s) with current models.

1. Engine and Performance

🔧 Past Models (1990s–2000s)

• Engine Types:

  • 1.8L–2.0L petrol (F8, FE series)

  • 2.2L–2.5L diesel (R2, WL series)

• Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic

• Drive Layout: FR (rear-wheel drive), 4WD available

• Power Output: ~80–110 hp

• Fuel Economy: Approx. 8–11 km/L (depending on engine/load)

These engines were simple, easy to repair, and ideal for rugged daily work.

⚙️ Present Models (2020–Present)

• Engine Types:

  • 1.5L petrol (based on Toyota design, for van)

  • 1.8L hybrid petrol (in some markets)

• Transmission: CVT or 6AT

• Drive Layout: FF (front-wheel drive)

• Power Output: ~109–120 hp

• Fuel Economy: Up to 15–17 km/L

Modern Bongos offer better efficiency, cleaner emissions, and quieter performance, especially in city driving.

✅ Key Takeaway: From durability-focused to fuel-efficient and eco-friendly.

2. Exterior and Interior Design

🛻 Older Bongos

• Boxy, utilitarian design

• Small steel bumpers

• Basic cabin with vinyl seats and analog gauges

• Sliding side doors for easy cargo access

• Manual air conditioning, manual windows

🚐 Newer Bongos

• More aerodynamic and stylish exterior

• LED lights (depending on market)

• Ergonomic dashboard with digital readouts

• Modern infotainment with Bluetooth (in high trims)

• Power windows, keyless entry, better cabin soundproofing

✅ Key Takeaway: The latest Bongo provides greater comfort and modern convenience, especially for business users spending long hours on the road.

3. Safety Features

🛡️ Past Models

• Limited safety systems:

  • Seatbelts, basic crumple zones

  • No airbags in base models

  • No ABS or traction control in early versions

🧠 Current Models

• Standard safety tech includes:

  • Dual airbags

  • ABS + EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)

  • Lane departure warning (on higher grades)

  • Pre-collision braking / pedestrian detection (available)

  • Rearview camera and parking sensors

✅ Key Takeaway: New Bongos are much safer and compliant with modern standards, ideal for urban fleet use and commercial operation.

4. Versatility and Configurations

📦 Classic Versatility

• Available in multiple body styles:

  • Panel van, double cab truck, flatbed, passenger van

• Used for everything from construction and delivery to school and service vans

🔄 Modern Adaptability

• Available as:

  • Cargo van (2-seater)

  • Van with rear seats (5–8-seater)

  • Refrigerated van, service van, or converted mobile units

• Compact dimensions make it perfect for urban last-mile logistics

✅ Key Takeaway: The Bongo’s core strength—multi-purpose flexibility—remains intact and more refined today.

Comparison Chart: Mazda Bongo Past vs Present

Real-World Testimonial

"We’ve used old Mazda Bongo trucks since the early 2000s. Reliable and easy to fix, but fuel costs were high. We recently upgraded to newer models via EVERYCAR.jp, and we’ve seen real savings in fuel and much better safety. EVERY Co Ltd helped us find the perfect units. We’ll definitely continue building our fleet with them."

Conclusion: Mazda Bongo – Classic Reliability Meets Modern Practicality

From rugged workhorse to fuel-efficient fleet solution, the Mazda Bongo has never lost its identity—it simply adapted to changing business needs.
Whether you need a cost-effective older unit or a modern, fuel-saving model, the Bongo delivers value, versatility, and trust.

🚐 Looking for a Mazda Bongo to suit your operations?
Browse available models at EVERYCAR.jp or contact EVERY Co Ltd for custom sourcing from Japan.

If you are looking for Japanese Used truck, please check our list.
The list of Used Japanese used truck for sale(*Click to open).

We do our best work for all customer's partnership.
It's for SDGs goal number 17 "PARTNERSHIP FOR THE GOALS".
Let's work together!