Mazda, long renowned for its stylish and insightful design, has released details of a concept vehicle designed for the lifestyle of today's Japanese youth.

Innovative yet functional, it was conceived by a team of young designers who spent a month in the company of Tokyo's trendiest people.

It is a concept designed to meet the needs of people in their teens or early 20s who wanted something other than the usual cars available to their limited pocket but that did more than just get them from A to B.

Mazda has long been know for design that breaks from the norm Mazda was the only manufacturer to pursue the rotary engine, while the MX-5 Mazda brought back the affordable roadster to our streets, and in Japan they produced the stunning AZ1, a sub-1-litre gull-winged sports car.

The Secret Hideout was designed to have a cheerful, friendly and fun appearance, the interior is spacious with clean lines to mirror modern furniture and is flexible enough to personalise to the owner's specific needs.

The front seats can be reclined with the rear seat cushion raised for laid back relaxation or both sets of seats can be laid fully flat to create a flat area sufficiently large to sleep on. With the freestyle doors that, when open, create a large opening, the Secret Hideout is an excellent window to the world for mornings at the beach.

Although the Secret Hideout will not be produced it is yet another example of Mazda's innovative and flexible design and the designers' ability to think beyond the traditional concept of a car.

The entertainment system is state of the art with wireless linkage using Bluetooth technology and a portable media support system. This system manages audio equipment from a mobile phone linked via Bluetooth.

The Secret Hideout is powered by one of Mazda's new generation of engines, the I4 1.3 litre DOHC with sequential valve timing to offer brisk acceleration and responsive performance. Suspension has been designed to offer a sporty ride and outstanding handling under all driving conditions.

Although the Secret Hideout will not be produced it is yet another example of Mazda's innovative and flexible design and the designers' ability to think beyond the traditional concept of a car.