Mazda6 named Scotland’s ‘Best Family car’
20th November 2008 4:00 pm Mazda
Now, in its 11th year, the Scottish Car of the Year is judged by members of the ASMW and more than 50 new models, launched during the past 12 months, were in contention for a 2008 accolade, awarded across eight categories.
“The family car sector has come on leaps and bounds in recent years, ” commented Bill Caven, President of the Association of Scottish Motoring Writers. “The quality of the vehicles available has risen dramatically as the manufacturers strive to offer something special. All of which is good news for those families seeking a solid all-round transporter.
“Mazda6 has more than met the ambitions of many motorists follwoing the introduction of its all-new Mazda6.”
Mazda6 impressed the ASMW judges, with the panel selecting it above family car rivals Honda Accord, Mitsubishi Lancer, Citroen C5, KIA pro’ceed, Ford Focus, Dodge Avenger and Peugeot 308. Bill Caven added: “Not only does the Mazda6 look rather spectacular, but it also performs to the same high standard of cars costing considerably more.”
Mazda UK managing director Jeremy Thomson added: “We are truly delighted that the Mazda6 has been named Scottish Car of the Year’s ‘Best Family Car’. This 2008 award is further confirmation that the all-new Mazda6 continues to attract family buyers thanks to its people and luggage carrying abilities and very competitive CO2 emossions levels, ideal for family motoring needs.
“The new Mazda6 has built upon the original model’s sportiness and design flair while the new body shells, which are significantly stiffer as well as lighter, mean that both the hatcback and the estate models deliver even more resonsive handling.”
WIth a comprehensive range of 25 derivates, including 10 diesels and nine estates, five equipment levels, four engine choices and a broad £7,020 price span, it’s not surprising that the Mazda6 is one of the company’s best-selling models. The Mazda6 is priced from £15,110 (OTR) for the Mazda6 1.8 5dr S model up to £22,130 (OTR) for the 2.0 Estate Sports Luxury model.
Until 31 December 2008, Mazda is offering the new Mazda Service Plan (valid for the first three annual services) , free of charge to customers who puchase a Mazda6. Customers can also take advantage of two typical 6.9% APR* finance offers on all models - Hire Purchase with a 20% minimum deposit over three years, or a Mazda MultiOption (PCP) plan also over three years.
Buyers who order a new Mazda6 Sport or SL model can specify a ‘Smart Nav’ (worth £700 as a Mazda accessory) free of charge. These offers are available for retails sales only, until 31 December 2008.
Five Upgraded Mazda BT-50 Models For UK
20th November 2008 9:00 am Mazda
Upgraded Mazda BT-50 range now on sale from £10,495 (CV OTR)*
New exterior and interior design, plus enhanced specification boost model appeal
New 3-litre turbo diesel and 5-speed automatic ‘Intrepid’ range-topper for UK only
Black leather interior trim and rear privacy glass for ‘Intrepid’ model
Body-colour flared wheelarches and new-style alloys on Double Cab models
Customer savings of up to £1,981 - available until 31 December 2008
The refined, upgraded Mazda BT-50 line-up of pick-ups, now on sale in the UK, introduces a new range-topping ‘Intrepid’ model with a 3-litre, 156ps turbo diesel engine, five-speed automatic transmission and leather interior. All upgraded models inherit the athletic looks of the previous model, while incorporating a further touch of brawny truck toughness into the exterior design. Combined with a broader range of exterior colours, the refreshed appearance conveys rugged reliability and an even stronger on-road presence.
“The upgraded Mazda BT-50 range is more boldly styled and better equipped and, in response to British customer feedback, now offers buyers in the UK a new ‘Intrepid’ model with more power and more comfort. Across the range, all the technical and practical attributes of the predecessor are retained, including its car-like driving dynamics, and valuable upgrades, such as ABS as standard, and an improved MP3-compatible audio system with auxiliary input jack. These enhancements, plus fresh exterior colours, will boost the appeal of Mazda’s pickup,” comments Mazda UK’s sales director Mark Cameron.
The five-strong range of upgraded Mazda BT-50 models is priced from £10,830.74 (Commercial Vehicle, on-the-road) for the 4×2 Single Cab and rise to £18,680.96 (CV OTR) for the new range-topping 4×4 Double Cab 3.0 Intrepid model. Currently, a range of customer savings (retail sales only, until 31 December 2008*), offers outstanding concessions of up to £1,981 (including VAT), meaning that Mazda BT-50 ownership can begin at only £10,495 (CV OTR), whilst Intrepid is offered at just £16,995 (CV OTR).
“The revised on-the-road prices for the upgraded Mazda BT-50 range - together with our ‘customer savings’ until 31 December, ensure that our pick-up remains extremely competitive for this market sector. I am confident our latest model will continue to build a strong presence for Mazda in the pick-up sector,” concluded Cameron.
All upgraded Mazda BT-50 models feature a new bonnet and grille, revised headlamps and a new front bumper design. The side-view of the upgraded Mazda BT-50 is also bolder and simpler, with Double Cab models featuring body-coloured flared wheelarches. A new, 16-inch, deep-recess alloy wheel design is standard on Double Cab TS2 and Intrepid models.
The upgraded Mazda BT-50 continues to deliver excellent off-road performance, with highly competitive approach, departure, breakover and tilt angles. Measuring 5,075mm in overall length, the Mazda BT-50 has a 465mm-high double-walled cargo box and a rear suspension featuring double-acting shock absorbers, enabling the 4×4 models to carry a load of up to 1,219kg.
Enhanced Convenience, Comfort & Equipment
The upgraded Mazda BT-50 carries over the car-like comfort and ambience that has earned widespread praise in the current model. New fabric designs and materials further improve the interior trim quality to provide class-leading comfort and bring a touch of sporty flair.
It also now features a new auxiliary (AUX) jack at the base of the centre stack to allow users to connect a portable audio player and listen to their favourite music through the vehicle’s audio system with two, four or six speakers - depending on model. The centre stack is now painted all-over silver, giving it a cleaner and deeper appearance.
New 156ps, 3-litre turbo diesel ‘Intrepid’ model exclusively for the UK
Especially for the UK market, a new MZR-CD 3.0 common-rail DOHC 16-valve turbo diesel engine is now available for the upgraded Mazda BT-50, offering 9% more power and 15% more torque than the 2.5-litre engine available with the rest of the range. The new engine is exclusive to the ‘Intrepid’ model and makes the Mazda BT-50 even more of an ideal companion for a number of lifestyles.
Delivering more power and more torque for even greater towing ability, the 3-litre turbo diesel engine generates a maximum power output of 156ps at 3,200rpm, and immensely exploitable maximum torque of 380Nm at just 1,800rpm. All 4-wheel drive Mazda BT-50s have a class-leading braked towing capacity of 3,000kg.
The new engine is matched to a new five-speed automatic transmission with a higher fifth gear ratio than the other 4-wheel drive models in the range (0.710:1 compared to 0.800:1 and the same final drive ratio of 3.727:1) for quiet economical cruising.
The new Mazda BT-50 4×4 Double Cab 3.0 Intrepid now heads-up the range with luxuries such as full leather trim, air conditioning and an MP3-compatible 6-CD autochanger with auxiliary jack input and six speakers. In addition to the leather trim, exclusive to the model are a stainless steel rear bumper bar and unique B-pillar trims, BT-50 branded scuff plates, a durable load-bed liner and privacy glass to the rear windows. The Intrepid logo features as a bold graphic on the front doors.
Buyers of Single Cab, Double Cab TS and Double Cab TS2 models will enjoy power provided by the popular 143ps, 330Nm 2.5-litre turbo diesel engine which is carried over unchanged, together with a five-speed manual gearbox, and delivers outstanding fuel economy of up to 39.7mpg on the extra-urban cycle.
Tough and Easy to Handle
The upgraded Mazda BT-50 retains the numerous chassis and safety improvements introduced with the previous model. The drivetrain is still offered in two versions - as before - a 2WD only version and a 2WD/4WD version with a two-speed (high/low range) transfer case and all 4×4 models are equipped with a rear Limited-Slip Differential (LSD).
Every Mazda BT-50 is provided with a full 3-year, 60,000 mile warranty cover, including Mazda European Assistance, 3-year paintwork warranty and a 6-year anti-perforation warranty for added peace of mind.
Customer Savings until 31 December
For a limited period, Mazda is offering a series of ‘customer savings’ for VAT-registered retail customers. These ’savings’ rise up to £1,981 (including VAT), depending on model, on retail sales until 31 December 2008 and mean that Mazda BT-50 ownership can begin at just £10,495 (CV OTR) for VAT-registered customers during this period.
All models in the Mazda BT-50 range have a payload in excess of 1,000kg, ensuring their qualification as a commercial vehicle for company car tax purposes. Customers running their Mazda BT-50 as a company vehicle therefore qualify for ‘Benefit-in-Kind’ taxation at a rate of just £3,000, meaning an annual car tax bill for a 20% tax payer of £600, which compares favourably to similarly-specified passenger cars.
Mazda2 Achieves 84MPG In Fuel Economy Challenge
19th November 2008 4:00 pm Mazda
After completing more than 410 miles on the gruelling ALD Automotive/TOTAL Excellium Fleet World MPG Marathon 2008, a Mazda2 diesel entered by Mazda Motors UK has secured a splendid second-place finish, recording an exceptional 84.58mpg.
The objective of the MPG Marathon was to promote eco-driving and highlight the fuel savings that are possible with a little thought and the use of ’smarter motoring’ techniques. A demanding route over a wide variety of roads in mid-Wales and the north-west Midlands attracted a field of 39 cars and crews from 22 manufacturers - representing a broad cross-section of vehicles. The event challenged crews “to improve upon the car’s official ‘combined cycle’ fuel economy figure” by the biggest margin.
Mazda2 1.4 5dr TS2 Diesel crew members - motoring journalist Sue Cooke and her daughter Joanne - fully exploited the supermini’s light weight and smooth aerodynamics, plus the engine’s 68ps and excellent torque (160Nm at 2000rpm). After two days of competitive ‘economy’ driving, they scored a 19 per cent improvement on the combined cycle figure (65.7mpg) of this popular Mazda, while averaging 40mph. The Mazda2 diesel has a CO2 rating of just 114g/km and qualifies in the £35 road fund licence band.
A delighted Sue commented: “I have never regarded my driving style as being expertly economical, but adopting a common-sense approach and employing some basic ’smarter motoring’ techniques - accelerating gently, shifting-up early and planning ahead to avoid unnecessary braking - allowed us to clearly demonstrate the huge fuel economy potential of the Mazda2.”
Ultimately, seven cars achieved more than 70mpg and eight recorded more than 80mpg. Event organiser, Ross Durkin, publisher of Fleet World magazine, explained: “It’s not what you drive, but how you drive that makes the difference. Once again this event has shown that skilled driving techniques work and can make a dramatic impact upon miles per gallon.”
Mazda’s ‘Smarter Motoring’ Tips
Change up ‘early’ through the gears, just before the ‘peak-torque’ rpm
Ease your speed. Driving at 70mph uses around 15 per cent more fuel than at 50mph
Anticipate to avoid unnecessary braking and stopping
Use the air-conditioning sparingly as it increases fuel consumption
Switch off the engine whenever it is safe to do so
Check tyre pressures regularly
Remove unnecessary weight from your car
Reduce aerodynamic drag whenever possible, e.g. removing roof racks when not in use
Follow the recommended servicing schedule.
Automotive Design Studios Visualize Auto Racing In The Year 2025
24th October 2008 2:00 pm Mazda
Today’s race cars have ground-breaking technology to improve speed, power, performance and safety but what a difference 17 years into the future can make. Imagine race cars that go beyond the expectations and challenges of racing today, such as never needing to stop for re-fueling or collision avoidance assistance technology for enhanced safety.
Nine of Southern California’s automotive design studios did just that, predicting how auto racing will change by the year 2025. The designs are part of the fifth annual Los Angeles Auto Show’s Design Challenge, where studios including Audi, BMW, GM, Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota and Volkswagen are pitted against each other to showcase their talents and further explore new ideas in automotive design.
“Automotive designers have always been fascinated with Motor Sports and this year’s Design Challenge has provided them with the opportunity to use their creative talent to look at these cars with new eyes, using innovative technologies and approaches,” said Chuck Pelly, director of Design Los Angeles and partner in The Design Academy, Inc. “This adds to the excitement, interest and personal involvement in the sport that has thrilled people of all ages for many years…and many more years to come.”
Entries in this year’s Motor Sports 2025 Design Challenge include:
• Audi of America Design Center California: The Audi R25 incorporates innovative features such as high-velocity banks and tunnels, which allow cars to race “inverted” and the opportunity to pass anywhere with aerodynamic racecars.
• BMW Group DesignworksUSA: The BMW Hydrogen Powered Salt Flat Racer reuses existing, ordinary and mundane materials such as old oil barrels and BBQ lids to whimsical and sustainable by employing goldfish as “co-pilots” to ensure that the vehicle is running clean emissions.
• General Motors Advanced Design: The GM Chaparral Volt collects and generates its own energy from three different clean, renewable and abundant California resources: Earth, Wind and Fire to create an entirely new category of racing - the eco-triathlon.
• Honda Research and Development, North America: The Great Race 2025’s sonar/echolocation sensors are able to detect changes in speed, terrain, and altitude, allowing it to switch to any configuration to circumnavigate the globe in 24 hours on land through the U.S., by sea through Asia and by air over Europe.
• Mazda R&D of North America: The MAZDA KAAN is an electric race car that has a patented electronic tire system to reach 250 mph with no harmful emissions. The vehicles are piloted by individual drivers but teams are made up of thirty cars, all on the track together.
• Mitsubishi Research & Design of North America: The MMR25’s multi-terrain, omnidirectional wheels consist of eight independently-controlled motors, allowing for “8 x 4” wheel drive so that the car can be driven forward while pointing in any direction.
• Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design of North America: Luxury racing arrives in the Formula Zero Racer by incorporating the thrill of Formula One, the track dynamics of the bobsled or luge, and the grace and efficiency of yacht racing.
• Toyota’s Calty Design Research: The Toyota Le Mans Racer is the ultimate race car that never needs to stop. Powered by highly efficient hydrogen fuel cell electric motors, each of its body panels is embedded with photovoltaic panels to supply electricity when extra energy is needed.
• Volkswagen of America Design Center: In the Bio Runner, the rider is positioned inside a protective cage on a motorcycle-like saddle with controls attached to the hands and feet. These controls manipulate all wheels via synthetic muscle-based suspension which offers unparalleled control and traction.
Entries will be judged by Tom Matano of San Francisco’s Academy of Art University, Imre Molner of Detroit’s College for Creative Studies and Stewart Reed of Pasadena’s Art Center College of Design. Daniel Simon, an established car designer and founder of Cosmic Motors, is the special guest judge this year. Simon began his design career at Volkswagen and recently published his first book: Cosmic Motors-Spaceships, Cars and Pilots of Another Galaxy.
The winning design will be announced at the Design Los Angeles conference Nov. 20 at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
About the Design Challenge
The Design Challenge is part of the Design Los Angeles automobile designers’ conference that has evolved into an integral element of the Los Angeles Auto Show. Entering its fifth year, Design Los Angeles provides designers with leading design speakers and the opportunity to address common issues. More than 500 designers attended last year’s event.
All-New Mazda3 Sedan To Debut At 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show
9th October 2008 10:11 am Mazda
Mazda Motor Corporation has confirmed that the sedan version of the all-new MAZDA3 (known as Mazda Axela in Japan), fully redesigned for the first time in five years, will be revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show*1 on November 19, 2008.
The covers will be pulled off during Mazda’s press conference at 12:20 p.m. (local time) revealing the all-new MAZDA3, the latest evolution of Mazda’s Zoom-Zoom spirit.
Every element of the all-new MAZDA3 has been developed for heightened exhilaration, with a more refined sporty ride, top-class fuel economy and quietness. Environmental and safety features,¡¡based on Mazda’s long-term “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom” vision, aim to achieve a balance with fun-to-drive. Add in a new expressive face and Mazda’s dynamic design elements, and the all-new MAZDA3 is everything a driver could ask for in a sports compact.
The brand-new version of Mazda’s best-selling sports compact carries forward the heritage of Mazda and the pedigree of the current MAZDA3. Since its launch in 2003, the current MAZDA3 has sold approx. 1.8 million vehicles*2 in over 100 countries and has won more than 90 global motoring awards*3 to date. The MAZDA3 accounts for almost one in three Mazdas sold every year.
Following the world debut of the North American specification sedan with 2.0- and 2.5-liter engines at the show, the five-door hatchback version will be revealed in line with Mazda’s global sales schedule.
Mazda Kiyora concept to make its global debut in Paris
8th October 2008 9:00 am Mazda
Mazda Kiyora is a lightweight, next generation, urban compact concept car.
Mazda MX-5 facelift, Mazda6 with an all-new MZR-CD 2.2 turbo diesel engine and Mazda2 with MZ-CD 1.6 turbo diesel engine also to be exhibited.
Mazda Press Conference to take place Thursday, 2 October, at 12:15 (local time)
Mazda Kiyora, a lightweight, next generation, urban compact concept car, will be revealed at the 2008 Paris International Motor Show to be held from Thursday, 2 October until Sunday, 19 October 2008.
Mazda Kiyora (meaning ‘clean and pure’ in Japanese) represents the harmony between driving pleasure and environmental and safety features in line with Mazda’s long-term technology development vision, “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom”.
The concept of “Kiyora” helped the designers to imagine a city car cutting cleanly through an urban landscape, with water as the design theme. Equipped with Mazda’s next generation 4 cylinder direct injection engine and featuring the company’s unique Smart Idle Stop System, the car achieves excellent fuel economy and low CO2 emissions. The improved aerodynamic performance of Nagare design also contributes to these factors.
The new Mazda concept car is based on an all-new platform designed to maximise weight reduction and a high level of safety, in pursuit of enhanced driving pleasure. It also features an interior design and new functions that support a youthful lifestyle.
Joining the Mazda Kiyora concept car on Mazda’s stand at the Paris show, the Mazda MX-5 facelift will make its world debut, together with the Mazda6 equipped with Mazda’s newly developed MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine, and the Mazda2 powered by a MZ-CD 1.6-litre diesel.
Officially titled the Mondial de l’Automobile, the Paris motor show press days are Thursday 2 October and Friday 3 October. Public days run from Saturday 4 October to Sunday 19 October 2008.
Mazda Motors UK appoints new MD
6th October 2008 12:03 pm Mazda
Jeremy Thomson has been appointed to the position of Managing Director, Mazda Motors UK Ltd from the position of Sales Director, effective from 1st October 2008. Jeremy replaces Rob Lindley who has chosen to join a non-competitive automotive manufacturer, McLaren Automotive, based in the UK.
Jeremy Thomson has held the role of Sales Director, Mazda UK for the past three years. Prior to that, he held the positions of Marketing Director (2003 - 2005) and Fleet Director (2001 - 2003). Jeremy also had a strong career at Ford Motor Company dating back to 1989 in a number of sales, marketing and service roles.
“I am delighted to announce the appointment of Jeremy Thomson to the position of Managing Director, Mazda Motors UK Ltd,” commented Philip Waring, Vice President for Sales at Mazda Motor Europe GmbH.
“Like his predecessors, Jeremy joined Mazda UK at its formation as a National Sales Company in 2001 and brings to the Managing Director role a wealth of experience gained in both the Fleet and Marketing areas as well as his current role as Sales Director.
“I am confident that Jeremy will guide the company through the tough economic climate which we face today to ensure that both Mazda and its dealer organisation are well positioned for the future.”
Moscow International Automobile Salon 2008
15th September 2008 10:34 am Mazda
1. Mazda Kazamai
A Sustainable Crossover Concept
Concept Car designed with the Russian market in mind
Equipped with sustainable Zoom-Zoom technologies
NAGARE design philosophy Crossover concept
Last year, Mazda Motor Corporation announced that it was embarking on a new direction with technology development. The strategy, called ‘Sustainable Zoom-Zoom,’ would focus on producing vehicles that combine Mazda’s trademark driving excitement with further evolved environmental and safety technologies.
‘Sustainable Zoom-Zoom’ and Mazda’s Nagare design philosophy have been combined in the Mazda Kazamai concept car which showcases how Mazda could deliver a vehicle in the near future that is exhilarating to look at and exciting to drive, with average fuel economy improved by 30 percent and producing far fewer emissions than today’s production models. This is Mazda at its best – a cool, athletic compact crossover, with next-generation environmental performance. Designed with the Russian compact SUV market in mind, Kazamai gives a glimpse at where Mazda is heading with a possible future compact crossover.
Russia’s booming Automobile Market
Between 2004 and the end of 2007, Russia’s automobile market grew by about 1.28 million cars, and in the process became Europe’s second largest car market after Germany. During this same period, Mazda quickly established itself as one of Russia’s most popular car brands, increasing sales from 8,565 units in 2004 to over 50,000 units last year – six times more than 2004.
One of the country’s biggest markets is the sports utility vehicle (SUV) segment, representing 16 percent of the total sales volume in 2007. Between 2004 and 2007, the segment became 10 times larger and this growth is expected to continue over the mid-term in Russia. Mazda’s mid-sized sports crossover SUV, the CX-7, has been on the market for less than a year in Russia and has already found over 7,900 customers – easily Mazda’s largest market for the CX-7 in Europe.
Now, the Mazda Kazamai concept car addresses the growing popularity of SUVs in Russia and gives a strong hint at where Mazda might be going with a compact crossover SUV. Small, lightweight with dynamic styling, low-consumption, and a next-generation Mazda powertrain, it is meant to appeal to young, upwardly-mobile Russians with a strong sense of style and urban lifestyle demands.
Design – Evolved Nagare Design
Mazda Kazamai means ‘swirling crosswinds’ in Japanese, and was chosen to express the powerful yet nimble character of this stylish and compact crossover. Kazamai is dynamic and athletic looking on the outside and displays an evolved Nagare ‘flow’ design. Unlike previous concept cars, Mazda Kazamai’s styling represents powerful natural movements that are emotionally expressed through three-dimensional motifs stretching over the whole body, representing a fusion of design and functionality.
Mazda Kazamai is an impressive combination of packaging requirements and design aesthetics. With a width of 1,930mm and a length of 4,520mm, it is slightly larger than the current Mazda3, with room for SUV comfort and functionality on the inside. Yet, because it is only 1,500mm high, has a flat roofline and very short rear overhangs, it also has a sporty coupe look with the promise of driving fun.
The innovative body design features flared fenders that emphasise SUV-like strength and a cabin befitting a sports car. The wedge-shaped profile was designed to evoke the image of a sleek arrow cutting through a mighty wind. In particular, the body design between the front wheel arches and the roof pillars is intended to express the agility and dynamism of wind gusting along the side of the vehicle. The panel lines on the sides represent swift and elegant crosswinds, further accentuating the dynamic and stylish body design. The bonnet itself is lower in the centre than at the sides, which emphasises the car’s powerful front fenders that accommodate large, 22-inch diameter wheels with 265/45 R22 tyres.
The alloy wheel design continues the crosswinds motif with each spoke carefully twisted and larger at the perimeter than in the centre, providing a strong sense of movement. The five-point Mazda grille is integrated into the body to create a clean and light image which, together with the flared front lower sides, contributes to excellent aerodynamic characteristics. The aerodynamics are further improved by making the air intakes as small as possible. The side sill panels and rear combination light covers also help to control the wind flow and reduce drag even further.
Interior – SUV Functionality with Driving Safety
Mazda Kazamai is not only a pure expression of speed and power, it also accommodates up to four passengers with compact SUV comfort and functionality. It was designed to fulfil many driver and vehicle interfaces so as to support the driver in enjoying safe and stress-free driving, with a well considered man/machine relationship, good visibility and an easy to operate cockpit. This is one of Mazda’s important areas of the Sustainable Zoom-Zoom plan.
Lightweight and Aerodynamic
Weight reduction and superior aerodynamic performance are core technologies to improve both driving pleasure and environmental performance, especially improving fuel economy. Mazda will further focus on these crucial factors in order to achieve the goals of the Sustainable Zoom-Zoom plan. Despite its powerful exterior look, the Mazda Kazamai concept’s excellent aerodynamic performance is achieved through a flat floor panel, a rear diffuser, and a low roof line. The aim was to make the Kazamai’s aerodynamics more than 10% better than other vehicles in its class.
When Mazda set about reducing the bodyweight, they leveraged CAE applications and focused on four major areas: collision safety, handling, NVH, and strength. At the same time, lightweight materials and new processing/joining technologies were put to effective use. Aluminium or aluminium-alloy is used for the bonnet, chassis and engine block. The designers aimed to make Kazamai 100 kilograms lighter than similar models by employing plastics for the panels, fenders and the engine cover. These features also contribute to advanced handling and improved fuel economy and CO2 emissions.
Next-Generation Powertrain – 30 Percent Improvement in Fuel Consumption
The ideal powertrain match for the Mazda Kazamai concept would be the next-generation 2.0-litre direct-injection petrol engine, which Mazda engineers are currently developing. This engine delivers a balance of sporty driving – especially in a compact car like the Kazamai – with good environmental performance. Mazda Kazamai will feature a DISI* engine based on the current Mazda CX-7’s engine, with advanced technologies to minimise energy loss and vastly improved thermal efficiency. Mazda’s next generation 2.0-litre DISI petrol engine also has combustion control technology and variable valve control that deliver strong torque throughout the rev-range for excellent engine response as well as superior fuel economy. A next-generation catalyst also ensures superior emissions performance.
This engine is coupled to a lightweight, next-generation compact six-speed automatic transmission that is highly responsive and delivers the direct feel of a manual transmission, and with four-wheel drive for superior traction. In combination with Kazamai’s next-generation aerodynamics and its lightweight body outlined above, this powertrain would deliver an estimated 30 percent improvement in fuel consumption and emissions (versus the current MZR 2.0-litre petrol) – without compromising driving pleasure.
*DISI: Direct Injection Spark Ignition
Advanced Safety and Security Features
Mazda Kazamai is not only lightweight, fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive, it is also designed with safety as a key element. Its advanced body shell is a product of a new body structure programme currently being refined at Mazda with a lightweight structure that provides high levels of crash safety. Mazda Kazamai also has a long list of active safety features including roll stability control, blind-spot monitoring to assist lane change, a pre-crash safety system and advanced dynamic stability control (DSC). And to meet future pedestrian safety requirements, it has soft plastic fenders and a shock-cone aluminium bonnet that is very efficient in absorbing impact energy.
Also onboard the Kazamai is a personal security system. This advanced system monitors the area around and inside the car, and has an automatic alert system which informs the driver in the event of an emergency to help to protect both the owner and occupants.
Technical Specifications – Mazda Kazamai Concept Car
Dimensions Overall length
4,520 mm
Overall width
1,930 mm
Overall height
1,500 mm
Wheelbase
2,780 mm
Seating capacity
4 people
Engine
Type
Next-generation 2.0L DISI petrol
Transmission
Type
Next-generation 6-speed AT
Suspension
Type
Front: MacPherson Strut,
Rear: Multi-link
Tyre
Type
265/45` R22 Bridgestone
2. Mazda CX-9
The Award-Winning Flagship SUV
At a Glance*
Exterior
• Mazda’s flagship SUV and largest vehicle in its product line-up
• Sleek and sporty design
• Large front bumper with chrome grille bar
• Headlamps with silver-look mouldings that bend into the fenders, and a sculptured bonnet
• Sporty silhouette with steep windscreen angle, and kick-up belt line
• 10-spoke, 20-inch alloy wheels and door mirror turning lamps
• Five-point rear window design, roof spoiler, dual trapezoidal exhaust pipes
Interior
• Mazda’s first three-seat-row SUV
• Seating capacity of up to 6 people
• Decorative, wood-like embellishments and silver garnishes throughout the cabin for quality look
• Hooded instrument cluster, black-out meters with silver rings, indirect illumination for easy reading
• High floor console with high-mount shift lever for fun and easy driving
• Power adjustable and heated driver and front passenger seats
• Driver’s seat with memory function (three driver positions inside the car and two additional positions with the two key cards)
• Driver seat with power adjustable lumbar support
• Foam insulation applied at 22 locations in body shell – most ever used on a Mazda vehicle – for superior cabin quietness
• SUV interior flexibility with seat configurations from 2 up to 6 seats
• VDA load volume from 267 litres (all seats up) to 1,911 litres (2nd and 3rd rows folded)
Powertrain
• New MZI 3.7-litre V6 petrol engine is the most powerful unit in the Mazda line-up
• Produces 204 kW/273 hp (SAE-NET) of maximum power at 6,250 rpm, and 366 Nm of torque at 4,250 rpm
• Six-speed automatic transmission, with manual shift mode
• Durable, lightweight, 60° V6 short-stroke engine for smooth, powerful operation
• Extensive NVH measures mean quiet engine operation
• Sequential Valve Timing (S-VT) for optimised torque at all engine speeds
• High compression ratio and electronic throttle for excellent pedal response
Chassis & Safety
• Highly rigid body shell as basis for outstanding handling and steering attributes
• MacPherson strut front suspension with 6-point rubber mount perimeter frame for sharp, linear steering feel
• Hydraulic power assistance for rack-and-pinion steering system
• Multi-link rear suspension with optimised link layout for consistent wheel alignment and predictable handling
• Rear suspension with one trailing arm and two lateral locating members on each side
• Trailing arms positioned higher for superior stability during braking
• Mazda’s Active Torque-Split all-wheel drive system for reliable traction in all road conditions
• Large diameter 320 mm front and 325 mm rear ventilated disc brakes
• Roll stability control (RSC), ABS, emergency brake assist (EBA), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and DSC
• High-tensile steel and large-section body members for a robust passenger cell that resists deformation
• Special front sub-frame extension designed to help prevent the front of the CX-9 from climbing up the front of an on-coming vehicle in a head-on collision
• Impact-absorbing pads in all four doors and door inside trim to help prevent side intrusion
• Front, side and full length (three-row) curtain airbags
• Special front head restraint anti-whiplash design to reduce possibility of neck injury in rear collision
• Collapsible brake pedal to help avoid lower leg injury to driver
• Highest possible ranking of five stars on frontal and side impact crash testing from the U.S. government’s NHTSA, and a four-star rollover resistance rating
Available Equipment
• High quality leather seats with double stitching
• Premium BOSE®, 10 speaker audio system with 277 watt output, including Centerpoint® surround system and AudioPilot® noise compensation
• Three-zone heating and air conditioning system with dual front and independent rear control
• Rain sensor and auto light systems
• AUX jack for connecting MP3 players and playing music on car’s audio system
• Advanced keyless entry and start system
• Power windows front and back
• Power liftgate can be operated with card key
• Privacy glass
• Theft alarm system
First launched in North America in 2007, Mazda CX-9 was praised as a new crossover SUV that combined a sleek and sporty look and an exhilarating driving experience with high quality, generous space and practical flexibility. Mazda’s first three-row SUV has been a hit since then with customers and experts alike – winning North America’s coveted 2008 Truck of the Year award, which includes medium/large SUVs – and selling more than 53,000 units globally up to June 2008.
The secret to this success has been an outstanding package that befits a Mazda flagship SUV. CX-9 combines great looks, room for up to six to travel in comfort and style, fun driving attributes and a great specification (depending on market) including a new 3.7-litre V6 engine coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode, and an Active Torque-Split All-Wheel Drive system that ensures great traction in all road conditions. This package makes it a highly appealing alternative in the medium/large SUV segment.
Exterior Design – Emotional Appeal and Prestige
Mazda CX-9 provides SUV roominess and comfort for six on the inside, with a sleek appearance that has high emotional appeal. This effect is created by a silhouette with a steep windscreen angle, thin tapered windows, large fenders and a rising belt line. At the front, the new CX-9 emphasises power and build quality with a big front bumper, sleek headlamps with silver-look edges that wrap into the fenders, and a sculptured bonnet. The rear design features a five-point rear window and a large rear bumper for stability and strength. To this look it adds sporty touches like a roof spoiler, dual trapezoidal exhaust pipes and, in profile, 10-spoke, 20-inch diameter alloy wheels (depending on market). Intriguing details like the silver-look mouldings for the lamps, the chrome used for the front grille bar and front intake areas and available turning signals in the door mirrors – all add a sense of prestige to owning a new Mazda CX-9.
Interior Design – Roominess and Quality
Despite looking more like a sports car than an SUV on the outside, on the inside Mazda CX-9 uses its full size – with a length of 5,089 mm, a width of 1,936 mm and height of 1,728 mm – to deliver SUV roominess, high quality craftsmanship and premium materials. Occupants are greeted by decorative, wood-like embellishments on each side of the centre console and at both ends of the dashboard. The cockpit has an instrument cluster with black-out meters, indirect illumination and silver rings. Its leather seats (depending on market and grade) have a sporty look, are firm and durable, with high-quality stitching and are matched to trim materials with superior quality feel and silver accents throughout the cabin. Two interior colour packages are available, in either black or sand.
Comfort, Functionality & Equipment – Fun to be in and Use
The new Mazda CX-9 offers a long list of standard features. This includes an all-new 3.7-litre V6 petrol engine coupled to a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and Active Torque-Split all-wheel drive. Also available (depending on market) are a burglar alarm, privacy glass, power windows front and back, power adjustable and heated front seats and driver’s seat memory function (for up to five settings). Other available features include three-zone heating and air conditioning, a premium BOSE®, 10 speaker 277 W audio system with Centerpoint® surround system and AudioPilot® noise compensation, rain sensor and auto light systems, and an Advanced keyless entry and start system (for unlocking all four doors automatically from outside the car). The card key also operates the power rear liftgate. Combine the high level of craftsmanship and the build quality of Mazda’s flagship SUV, and you have an overall package that stands out in the SUV market.
Superior NVH for a Quiet Cabin
All these features can be enjoyed to the fullest, because CX- 9’s cabin is designed to be quiet and relaxing, even at cruising speed on the motorway. Its new V6 engine and automatic transmission are smooth and quiet (see Powertrain below). Noise-suppressing foam is applied at 22 locations in the body shell – the most of any Mazda vehicle ever – and various structural technologies which effectively dampen road and wind noise from reaching the cabin are employed.
Roominess, Comfort and Seat Variability
The dynamic exterior of the Mazda CX-9 is not achieved by sacrificing SUV comfort and seat flexibility. With one of the segment’s longest wheelbases (2,875 mm), the Mazda CX- 9 offers space for a maximum of six people. The cockpit is designed to support this by being easy to use and practical. The steering wheel is both rake and reach adjustable. The leather driver’s seat is power adjustable for slide and height, has electric lumbar support adjustment and a seat position memory system that can store up to three different driving positions and two additional positions using the two card keys – and the front passenger seat is power adjustable as well.
The shift lever of the six-speed automatic transmission is positioned high at the front of the floor console where it can be easily operated in either automatic or manual modes, and the steering wheel has audio controls and cruise control buttons (depending on market). This is combined with large and comfortable back seats that can be folded individually to create a large load space. There is even a handy strap at the back of both third row seats that lets you fold them into the floor and lets you pull them back up again. And practical storage compartments can be found everywhere in the cabin. There is a large front floor console that comes with an auxiliary jack (AUX) for hooking up and playing an MP3 player using the car’s premium audio system. A 12-volt power outlet can be used to recharge the batteries of your notebook, mobile phone and other electrical equipment.
Powertrain – Smooth and Powerful
The powertrain for the Mazda CX-9 was chosen specifically to back-up the vehicle’s high quality look and feel with an exhilarating yet sophisticated driving experience. Under the bonnet is a new MZI 3.7-litre V6 petrol engine that produces 204 kW/273 hp (SAE-NET) of maximum power at 6,250 rpm, and a robust 366 Nm of torque at 4,250 rpm – making it the most powerful engine in Mazda’s line-up.
This 60° V6 short-stroke unit has a die-cast aluminium block with cast-in iron cylinder lines and aluminium cylinder heads – for minimal weight and high durability – and it adds advanced engine technologies to optimally combine performance with acceptable fuel consumption. These include sequential valve timing (S-VT) for optimised engine torque at all speeds. It also has a high compression ratio (10.3:1) and electronic throttle control, which helps provides instant response to accelerator pedal input for lots of driving fun. Two catalytic converters make sure the Mazda CX-9 meets Euro Stage IV emission standards.
Yet despite its fun-to-drive nature, the CX-9 has low NVH levels for a crossover SUV. To achieve this, a highly rigid cylinder block is used to reduce engine vibration, the side frame engine mounts are reinforced to reduce transmission vibration, and the forged-steel crankshaft has a dual-mass damper for smooth operation. Camshaft vibration is kept to a minimum by the use of sprockets with rubber cushion rings, and the intake manifold is designed to reduce intake air undulation and resistance.
Six-Speed Automatic Transmission with Manual Shift Mode
These engine technologies are combined with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode as standard equipment. This transmission provides an optimal balance between acceleration, driving comfort and quietness. Broad gear ratios ensure lively acceleration and smooth, powerful cruising speeds, while the top two gears are overdrive ratios, which help save fuel when driving on the motorway. In automatic mode, it delivers a sporty shift feel and quick response to pedal input, and near manual-like shift characteristics in manual shift modes, for the best of both worlds.
Chassis & Safety – Responsive and Safe
Mazda CX-9’s stiff body shell and chassis systems – combined with the smooth, cultivated power of its V6 engine – make for an exciting Mazda-style driving experience not usually found on an SUV this size. And these superior dynamic attributes play a major role in making the CX-9 something very special in its class.
Zoom-Zoom Handling
The CX-9 body shell is a highly rigid structure with multiple cross members under the floor, a reinforced upper body area at the C-pillar, a high-tensile steel B-pillar and special roof reinforcements. This structure is made even more robust by the incorporation of additional seat frames between the cross members on the floor and by the use of more laser spot welds and weld bonds than most of its competitors. All these measures result in high torsional and flexural rigidity, which delivers superior stability and Zoom-Zoom handling – without making Mazda’s flagship SUV unduly heavy.
Its MacPherson strut front suspension is supported on a 6-point rubber mounted sub-frame. This gives strong support and a sharp, linear feel to its hydraulic power assisted rack-and-pinion steering system. The multi-link rear suspension employs one trailing arm and two lateral locating members on each side, and a rear sub-frame with two rubber mounts on each side. The connecting points of the trailing arms are placed higher than usual, which further improves their stability during braking. The link layout is optimised to provide consistent wheel alignment when external forces are acting on the rear suspension, for predictable handling.
Superior Traction – Mazda’s Active Torque-Split All-Wheel Drive
A main contributor to the predictable handling of the CX-9 is its Active Torque-Split All-Wheel Drive system that provides good traction in all road situations. Based on the system used by the CX-7, it monitors road conditions, ABS/DSC operating conditions, individual wheel speed and engine operations to optimise torque between the front and rear wheels – with a torque split between 100:0% and 50:50% front/rear. Depending on these factors, the system automatically selects snow mode or normal mode, and torque is distributed to the front and rear wheels by the coupling unit for optimised traction.
High Levels of Safety
Mazda CX-9 is also one of the safest SUVs. Active safety features include a high seating position for great all around visibility, large diameter front and rear ventilated disc brakes (320 mm and 325 mm respectively) combined with roll stability control (RSC), ABS, emergency brake assist (EBA), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and DSC (depending on market and grade).
The foundation for CX-9’s passive safety system is its body shell. Using high-tensile steel and large-section body members, it disperses impact energy away from the passengers and keeps body deformation to a minimum during a collision. Also onboard is a special front sub-frame extension designed to help prevent the front of the CX-9 from climbing up the front of an on-coming vehicle in a head-on collision. Passengers are further protected by front, side and full length (three-row) curtain airbags (depending on market and grade), three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load-limiters for the front seats, a collapsible brake pedal and specially designed front head restraints that help reduce possible whiplash neck injuries during a rear impact.
No wonder the Mazda CX-9 received the highest possible ranking of five stars on frontal and side impact crash testing from the U.S. government’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and a four-star rollover resistance rating.
Mazda Kiyora Concept To Make Its Global Debut At The 2008 Paris Motor Show
12th September 2008 11:24 am Mazda
Mazda Kiyora, a lightweight, next generation, urban compact concept car, will be revealed at the 2008 Paris International Motor Show to be held from Thursday, October 2 through Sunday, October 19, 2008.
Mazda Kiyora (meaning ‘clean and pure’ in Japanese) represents the harmony between driving pleasure and environmental and safety features aspired to in Mazda’s long-term technology development vision, “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom.”
The concept of “Kiyora” helped the designers to imagine a city car cutting cleanly through an urban landscape, with water as the design theme. Equipped with Mazda’s next generation 4 cylinder direct injection engine and featuring the company’s unique Smart Idle Stop System, the car achieves excellent fuel economy and low CO2 emissions. The improved aerodynamic performance of Nagare design also contributes to this. The new Mazda concept car is based on an all-new platform designed to maximize weight reduction and a high level of safety, in pursuit of enhanced driving pleasure. It also features an interior design and new functions that support a youthful lifestyle.
Joining the Mazda Kiyora concept car on Mazda’s stand at the Paris show, the Mazda MX-5 facelift will make its world debut, together with the Mazda6 equipped with Mazda’s newly developed MZR-CD 2.2-liter turbo diesel engine, and the Mazda2 powered by a MZ-CD 1.6-liter diesel.
Officially titled the Mondial de l’Automobile, the Paris motor show press days are October 2 and 3, and the public days are October 4 to 19. Mazda will hold its press conference on Thursday, October 2, at 12:15 p.m. (local time).
2008 Paris International Motor Show vehicle exhibits
Reference exhibits
Concept car
Mazda Kiyora (World Premiere)
Scheduled for sale
Mazda MX-5 facelift (World Premiere) European Specification
Mazda6 MZR-CD 2.2 (World Premiere) European Specification
Mazda2 MZ-CD 1.6 (World Premiere) European Specification
Models currently on the market
Mazda2, Mazda3, Mazda5, Mazda6, Mazda CX-7, Mazda BT-50 pickup
Mazdaspeed Motorsports 2008 mid-season review
26th August 2008 10:50 am Mazda
 null The 2008 race season started off on a high note, both on-track and off. An underdog win by the Castrol Syntec SpeedSource Mazda RX-8 team at the Rolex 24 at Daytona saw Mazda take its 22nd class win in the American 24-Hour classic. Less than a month later, all eyes turned to the unification of open wheel racing. While that was welcome news for race fans, it created a great deal of additional work for many organizations. Mazda was hit especially hard with four Mazda-specific series directly impacted, and has spent the past six months in rebuilding schedules for 2008 and 2009.
Robert Davis, Senior Vice President, Product Development and Quality, Mazda North American Operations, reflected on the season so far. “As racing fans, we were thrilled to see open-wheel racing come together again. But it was not without a cost, and one of the costs was our having to rebuild race schedules and TV packages with no time to spare. I’m proud of the effort put forth by Mazda and all of our partners, ranging from series sponsors like Playboy to sanctioning bodies like IMSA, to individual race promoters, to our teams, and it was very much a collective effort.” Davis added, “On-track, our teams have managed to stay focused and we’ve addedanother four wins in Grand-Am Rolex GT and three in SPEED World Challenge. Both of those seasons are far from over and we hope to keep the fight going to the last races.”
The Olympics of Motorsports?
While fans of human powered sports are tuning in to Beijing for the other Olympics, motorsports road racing fans are in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin for the Road America Road Race Showcase to be held August 7-10. Nearly 200 cars will be competing in eight different race series. Mazda alone will have almost 100 of those drivers and cars representing over a dozen countries competing in the following classes.
American Le Mans Series (LMP2 class)
SPEED World Challenge Touring Cars
Cooper Tires Atlantic Championship Powered by Mazda (Double-header)
Star Mazda Championship Presented by Goodyear
BFGoodrich/Skip Barber National Presented by Mazda (Double-header)
Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup
MAZDASPEED 2008 season highlights through July include:
Four wins in Grand-Am GT for the RX-8 including both of the “endurance” races. SpeedSource drivers Sylvain Tremblay & Nick Ham have closed to within six points of the points lead with two races remaining.
Three wins in SPEED World Challenge with four Mazda drivers ranked in the top ten in points.
Strong fields in all of the Mazda Ladder Series races.
The inaugural Mazda Grand Prix of Portland.
The MAZDASPEED Motorsports Driver Development supported drivers are doing extremely well in 2008.
Dane Cameron – Racing in the Cooper Tires Atlantic Championship Powered by Mazda — Currently seventh in points after five of 11 races. Third among rookies. Three top-five finishes.
Connor De Phillippi – Racing in the BFGoodrich/Skip Barber National Presented by Mazda - Currently eighth in points after eight of 14 races. Three podium finishes. Has led two races.
Joel Miller – Racing in the Star Mazda Championship Presented by Goodyear — Currently first in points after five of 12 races. One win, four podium finishes.
Brad Rampelberg – Racing in the Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup — Currently second in points after three of eight races. One win and two podium finishes.
Jason Saini – Racing in the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship — Currently fifth in points after seven of ten races. Leading rookie in series. One win, two podium finishes.
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