Mazda Australia has successfully negotiated with its parent company in Hiroshima to bring a "concept" version of the recently-released Mazda 323 Astina to Australia.

Called the "Country Concept," the full time four wheel drive model will make its first local appearance at the Brisbane International Motor Show which opens on 5^th February. Then journey South for the Melbourne International Motor Show which opens on 25^th February.

The "Country Concept" was first shown at the Birmingham Motor Show recently and will come to Australia from shows in North America.

Mazda Australia Managing Director Malcolm Gough says he expects the car to create a lot of interest.

"The vehicle combines higher performance with off road ability and these are the 'buzz' ingredients at the moment."

"We will be closely monitoring public reaction," he said.

The car has a 2.0 litre in-line 4-cylinder fuel injected gasoline engine which produces 100 kW of power at 5,800 rpm and 178 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. It uses a newly developed 4-speed automatic transmission equipped with a sports mode which allows manual 'up' and 'down' shifts when driving in the D range.

A full-time 4WD system coupled with 40mm extra suspension height makes the car suitable for tough "on" and "off" road driving conditions.

The vehicle combines 215/50R17 tyres with 5-spoke 17x7JJ aluminum wheels, and the braking system features larger diameter 4-wheel disc brakes.

The display car is finished in a bright exterior colour called "Meadow Green Metallic" which is complemented by grayish green and titanium-like silver color which also highlights the performance and design features of the car.

Mazda's five point grille is fitted with a silver mesh panel which, together with round quad headlamps covered with clear lenses and round larger-diameter fog lamps, combine to create a powerful and aggressive face.

The titanium grey colour is used on the front and rear bumpers, wide side protector and flared wheel arches. Dual exhaust pipes also emphasise the sporty character of the car.

While the base tone of the interior is off-black, individual parts are highlighted in the same colours as the exterior. These include the steering wheel, instrument 'meter panel,' portions of the seat fabric, the centre console and portions of the door arm rests.

The front seats use a mechanism allowing them to fall more easily forward so that the seatbacks can be used as tables when folded. In addition, the Mazda 323 Country-Concept features a satellite navigation system.