Mazda has recently redesigned the micro-mini AZ Wagon in Japan, offering more flexibity and room as well as better fuel efficiency. And thanks to a few tweaks and touches (which we see in the Custom Style rendition offered in Japan), the AZ Wagon has easily changed its image from being just cute to cool and comfortable.

However, Mazda faces an important challenge: how to redesign and engineer the AZ-Wagon such that it meets the vehicle safety standards observed in the US. See the AZ Wagon was originally engineered and designed to meet Kei-class standards in Japan, which places limitations on size and weight, power output, and engine displacement in vehicles. Basically, this means that if Mazda doesn’t redesign the AZ Wagon to comply with US standards, they can say goodbye to a considerable number of potential unit sales.

This is why Mazda has come up with a redesigned AZ Wagon, which not only passes US standards but also makes for an appealing and comfortable compact car. The redesigned four-seater has 50/50 split rear seats which can be folded or moved forward on tracks if you need more room for cargo than people. Many also laud the redesigned AZ Wagon for its space efficiency, which is quite impressive considering the car’s overall dimensions. In addition to all these, the AZ Wagon also uses an engine that is certified in Japan as a Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle.

The goal of the concept car is to create a smart driving environment in more efficient vehicles that have lighter bodies and good engine fuel economics. With the re3, Johnson Controls eyes all green bases and is sure to hit a run.

The tag re3 actually means re-think, re-new, and re-spond. The car draws a new picture of what small cars should be like in the future. Through innovative engineering the re3 Concept aims to deliver an overall experience of comfort and sustained appeal with the consumers.

Johnson Controls responds to the demand of the market for smaller cars with highly efficient engines. They also focus on the current call for more environment-friendly vehicles. Basically, re3 Concept is built on the principle of being more on being less. The cars are built with more room while the car occupies less space.

A number of Johnson Controls’ innovation is evident on the re3 Concept:

The car is uses a hybrid system which still leaves a lot of space for five adult occupants. The seats are also arranged to promote conversational seating and foster interaction among occupants.

The driver also gets an idea about the condition of the car with the extended cluster of gauges. Easy control and monitoring are facilitated through touch screen displays.

All materials used in the interiors are renewable and highly considered as eco-friendly. More photos of the Johnson Controls RE3 Concept on Green Car Tips!