Mazda 1

Mazda says Kiyora translates as 'clean and pure', although we have to admit that our thoughts initially turned to orange squash.

Either way, the Kiyora concept car, which has two front seats and a space in the rear that can be used occasionally by a further two passengers, gives us an idea of what the companys new city car will look like when it goes on sale in 2010.

It will slot underneath the Mazda 2, probably as the Mazda 1 cleverly, and cost from around 7000.

A stop-start system, which shuts the engine down when youre not moving, is used on the 1.3-litre petrol-engined concept car. Combined with a six-speed automatic gearbox, the goal is to reduce fuel consumption by 30% across its range 'in the near future'.

Combined with low-drag styling, Mazda says it helps to give the Kiyora very low fuel consumption and emissions. Although it won't be specific, it says that emissions will be under 90g/km of carbon dioxide.

Mazda has shown a long line of snazzy concepts like this, and also launched some stylish-looking cars, including the latest 6 and 2. The prospects for the little 1 are encouraging.

The transparent side panels are an interesting feature that have appeared on a few concept cars now. The idea is that the driver and passenger can see the road out of the corner of their eyes which increases the sensation of speed.

Mazda is also showing the European version of the updated MX-5 at Paris along with a new 2.2-litre diesel in a 6 family car and a 1.6-litre diesel in a 2 supermini.