Automakers

Refreshed Mazda MX-5 Now On Sale in Japan

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 14:28:14 -0600

The Mazda MX-5 is one of our favorite droptops around the NextAutos office, so we're pleased to see that this refreshed version is making its way off of assembly lines, if only in Japan for the moment. Mechanically, not a whole lot has changed with the MX-5, though cars equipped with a manual transmission can now rev up to a 7500 rpm redline and new shift settings for the automatic-equipped models have been implemented.

The MX-5's exterior speaks to Mazda's new design language that we've seen on the updated Mazda6 and Mazda3, and some new color choices and wheel options are available, along with a choice of a traditional canvas roof or folding hardtop. Inside, there are minor updates to the fabrics and switchgear, and should make for a pretty solid package overall.

While no official details have been released for the upcoming U.S.-spec MX- refresh, we'd expect that all of the JDM updates will carry over. Expect pricing to be in line with the current car's numbers, as well. Click through the post to read Mazda's official press release, too.

Mazda Launches Freshened Roadster in Japan
Revamped Roadster inherits and evolves the original model's "Jinba Ittai" fun-to-drive qualities -

HIROSHIMA, Japan (12-9-08)-Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the launch of the freshened Mazda Roadster (known as the MX-5 overseas) into the Japanese market. Mazda's updated iconic lightweight, open-top sports car goes on sale today (December 9, 2008) at all Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealers throughout Japan. Manufacturer's suggested retail prices (including consumption tax) range from 2,330,000 to 2,600,000 yen for the soft top models, and from 2,680,000 to 2,950,000 yen for the Power Retractable Hard Top (RHT) models that feature Mazda's groundbreaking electric roof system.

The latest version of Mazda's two-seat sports car carries forward the Roadster's traditional "Jinba Ittai" ("rider and horse as one") concept, and features detailed improvements in the exterior and interior design, quality, functionality and dynamic performance. As a result, the Roadster is now more fun-to-drive and more desirable than ever. The RHT models, which provide both the enjoyment of open-top driving and the comfort of a coupe, are now even quieter and feature new, exclusive exterior parts, offering customers even higher levels of comfort and quality.

The design of the front fascia has been updated with Mazda's hallmark five-point grille. A stronger character line that stretches along the lower edge of the vehicle's sides has been visually extended to the rear bumper, further enhancing the Roadster's sporty dynamism. Newly designed alloy wheels (two sizes) now come as standard on all model grades. Three new exterior body colors have been added, including the high quality Aluminum Metallic and vivid Sunflower Yellow.

On the inside, the five gauges on the instrument panel have been newly designed and are highlighted by a dark silver decorative panel. The interior quality is enhanced by a choice of tactile brown leather seats or Recaro bucket seats upholstered in a combination of leather and Alcantara®*1. Comfort levels are also improved through the addition of heated seats with a temperature control with five temperature settings (for grades with leather seats only).

The rev limit on grades with a manual transmission has been increased to 7,500 rpm for improved driving performance. The height of the front roll center has been optimized, and the retuned suspension makes the vehicle's handling even more natural. Additionally, automatic grades now offer Direct Mode*2 and Active Adaptive Shift (AAS)*3 functions for an even sportier ride. Improvements have also been made to the engine and body to enhance noise reduction levels and provide a more satisfying engine sound.

The Mazda Roadster was certified by Guinness World Records as the world's highest production two-seat open-top sports car when production passed 500,000 units in 2000. Guinness has updated the Roadster's record since then, which now stands at over 800,000 units built.

*1 ALCANTARA® is a registered trademark of Alcantara S.p.A.
*2 Steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters can be used to change gear even when the gear shift is in the Drive position.
*3 AAS automatically selects the optimal gear depending on driving style and road surface conditions.

Main features of the refreshed Mazda Roadster

Exterior
The freshened Roadster carries forward the simple elegance and familiar styling of previous Roadsters, yet incorporates Mazda's latest design motifs.
- The front fascia now features Mazda's hallmark five-pointed grille. Sharper headlights and bold fog light bezels enhance the lively and refined styling. This further emphasizes the curved corners of the front bumper, which also improves the vehicle aerodynamics.
- More prominent character lines running along the bottom of the vehicle sides strengthen the appearance of the side sill garnish. The character lines have been visually extended to the rear bumper to better express speed and stability.
- The rear end has been updated with new rear combination lights that flow smoothly into the bumper. A larger black rear diffuser further emphasizes the Roadster's sporty appearance.
- RHT models feature an exclusive mesh grille with a chrome border, chrome headlight inner bezels, silver fog light inner bezels and chrome outer door handles. A high-mounted clear brake light completes the RHT's distinctive and high quality look.
- All models come with newly designed alloy wheels as standard equipment. The five-spoke 16-inch wheels complement the Roadster's lightweight image (on the S, NR-A, S RHT and VS RHT model grades). The 17-inch wheels feature 10 rounded spokes for a more dynamic appearance (on the RS and RS RHT model grades). Additionally, forged 17-inch alloy wheels, customized by BBS, are available as a factory-installed option (on the RS, RS RHT and VS RHT grades).
- Eight exterior body colors are available, including three new options: deep Metropolitan Gray Mica, high quality Aluminum Metallic, and Sunflower Yellow, which expresses the Roadster's Zoom-Zoom spirit.

Interior
The interior design of the freshened Mazda Roadster offers improved quality and functionality in every detail, while the snug cabin conveys a sense of openness.
- A sporty, dark silver decorative panel runs across the center of the dashboard. Silver rings have been added to the air conditioner dials on the center panel to raise the interior quality feel.
- The five gauges on the instrument cluster have been newly designed to make them easier to read. A red LCD screen is located in the center of the meter console. It displays data from the odometer/trip meter, as well as the average fuel consumption and ambient air temperature.
- The design of the inner door pocket has been flattened to increase space in the foot well. Soft padding has been added to the lid on the center console storage box and the door armrests to increase comfort levels.
- The newly designed seats come in four grades. Sporty black fabric seats are available for all grades except the VS RHT. The VS RHT features tactile, Havana Brown leather upholstery as standard equipment. Black leather seat covers (for the RS and the RS RHT grades) and RECARO bucket seats upholstered in a combination of black leather and Alcantara® (for the RS, RS RHT and VS RHT grades) are available as factory-installed options.
- The seats have larger side bolsters for greater support. For added comfort, heated seats with a five-setting temperature control are standard for the VS RHT and available for the RS and RS RHT grades as a factory-installed option.
- A BOSE® sound system, developed exclusively for the Roadster, features a six-channel digital amplifier and seven speakers with independent playback. The system also features AUDIOPILOTTM 2, a BOSE® noise compensation system (available as a factory-installed option on all grades except NR-A).
- An auxiliary jack that is located at the base of the center stack provides connectivity for portable audio devices (standard on the VS RHT and available as a factory-installed option on all other grades except the NR-A).

Driving performance
By reviewing and evolving the basic aspects of the vehicle's dynamics, such as acceleration, cornering, and braking, Mazda further enhanced the "Jinba Ittai" ("rider and horse as one") feel that the Roadster has become famous for since the original version was introduced.

Powertrains
- The 2.0-liter double overhead cam (DOHC) engine features a newly forged crankshaft for extra strength. Additionally, new full floating piston pins and revised valve springs raise the engine's overall operational precision. Maximum output is now generated at 7,000 rpm, up from 6,700 rpm, and the rev limit has been increased from 7,000 to 7,500 rpm. These changes result in a stretched power band at higher engine speeds (for manual transmission models).
- The highly rigid forged crankshaft, together with a stiffer plastic surge tank, contributes to improved quietness when cruising. At the same time, these changes bring out a clearer sound when driving at medium to high speeds. Six-speed manual transmission models also feature a newly developed Induction Sound Enhancer. This amplifies the throbbing noise generated as air is sucked into the engine and reverberates it around the cabin for an even better driving experience.
- The updated six-speed manual transmission provides an even smoother shift feel thanks to the carbon-coated meshing surfaces on the first to fourth triple-cone synchronizers and a larger diameter third to fourth synchronizer.
- The electrically-controlled six-speed automatic (Activematic) transmission now has a "Direct mode" and Active Adoptive Shift (AAS) which enhance the sporty driving experience and provide better response to driver inputs.

Body and chassis
- By lowering the front roll center height by 26 mm, the added vertical load on the outer wheels when cornering is minimized. This results in a more natural amount of body roll when cornering and more linear response to steering inputs. With added improvements to the suspension, the updated Roadster offers improved "Jinba Ittai" handling balanced with a higher quality ride.
- The protruding design of the front bumper corners and the rear combination lights, together with wider front under-floor tire deflectors, contribute to improved aerodynamics.

Quietness
The door modules are made from a stiffer new material and feature a reinforcement rib for extra rigidity. Together with a stronger number two crossmember, these changes make sound insulation better than ever. For RHT models, road noise is further reduced due to the addition of urethane foam filling in the front suspension crossmember and extra sound insulation in the roof.

Environmental and safety features
Mazda evolved the eco-friendly and safety features of the Mazda Roadster to increase its fun-to-drive qualities.
- All models qualify as Super-Ultra-Low Emission Vehicles (SU-LEV) by achieving exhaust emissions that are at least 75% lower than the levels required by the Japanese government's 2005 exhaust emissions standard.
- A display on the instrument panel shows the average fuel consumption and ambient temperature.
- The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system supports linear and confident driving by helping to prevent loss of control when cornering (standard equipment on the RS, RS RHT, and VS RHT grades).
- The Roadster offers excellent collision safety performance thanks to a version of Mazda's highly rigid Advanced Impact-energy Distribution and Absorption System that has been specially adapted for an open-top car. Other safety equipment to mitigate potential injuries to occupants and pedestrians includes an airbag system and a bonnet with Mazda's shock cone structure.

Morgan Styling And A Mazda MX-5 Combine As The Mitsuoka Himiko

Steven J. Ewing — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 14:34:37 -0600

We all know Mitsuoka as the interesting Japanese automaker known for its rather unique design language. Their latest creation pays homage to classic British roadsters, namely those from Morgan. And while the Mitsuoka creation won't have the Morgan's classic wood frame, it should prove to be a rather inspiring drive due to its Mazda MX-5 underpinnings.

The Mitsuoka Himiko is indeed a bit more mundane looking (yet more acceptable) than the automaker's Orochi sports car or Galue luxury sedan, and hey, you can even get the Mazda MX-5's retractable hardtop! Click through our gallery above for some detailed shots of the Himiko, and leave your thoughts about this one-off Brit, in comments.

+ Autofiends: Mitsuoka Himiko isn't a Morgan

2008's Ten Most Fuel-Efficient Vehicles

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 10:56:56 -0600

If there was one positive factor about 2008's energy crisis, it's that it forced consumers to put more weight on fuel economy when making car-buying decisions. And while we may have moved away from $4-per-gallon gasoline, fuel efficiency still places high on the "must have" list for a lot of new car shoppers. Now that we know how easily these price hikes can happen, it's better to be safe than sorry, right?

We've seen major manufacturers expanding their ranges of hybrid offerings, and for the first time, clean diesels are starting to make their way onto American soil, proving that you don't have to sacrifice performance for the sake of fuel consumption. Scroll through the gallery above to see out list of the ten most fuel efficient cars for 2009.

Note: This information is based off of the 2009 FuelEconomy.gov listing.

Calling the Shots: Mazda Spies its Own Mazda3 Hatchback

Seyth Miersma — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 10:08:39 -0600

After officially debuting its new 3 at the L.A. Auto Show this week, Mazda has decided to take control of the release of information regarding the 3 hatchback as well. Rather than face the inevitable deluge of spy photographs from outside sources, the company has gone ahead and taken its own “spy” shots, revealing a clad Mazda3 hatch running around in scenic Iceland.

The move makes a sort of sense, as Bob Lutz made clear when Camaro spy shots started cropping up all over, as it gives the automaker the ability to have its mule seen in the best possible light, even if it is largely covered up. The car isn’t dissimilar from the Mazdaspeed3 we’ve already caught out this year and should prove to be a spirited driver. Have a look at the extra pretty spy photography in our gallery above.

+ Jalopnik: 2010 Mazda3 Hatchback Spied By Mazda

Revealed: Newly Redesigned Mazda3 Ready for 2008 L.A. Auto Show

Hardy Shen — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:58:44 -0600

With around 1.8 million units sold so far and some 90 awards won, the Mazda3 has been treating the Japanese automaker quite well ever since its initial release five years ago. So to keep the favorable trend going, Mazda will show the all-new Mazda3 sedan at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The styling has been nudged towards what the automaker likes to call a unified Mazda global "family face." This translates into a lower air intake, and a modernized and 'instantly recognizable' five-point grill. The lines have also been tweaked and molded on the body for a more coupe-like shape, featuring a similar the C-pillar profile as the one on the 2009 Mazda6.

Interior upgrades include a sharper and more contemporary look than the previous generation, with keyless entry and push-button start as its standard party piece. Options will include rain-sensing wipers, heated side mirrors, leather upholstery, and heated seats. While these changes are nothing too special, it does come with a Bose 10-speaker premium surround sound system, a dock for iPods, Sirius satellite radio, and connectivity for cell phones and portable media players. These additions should happily satisfy anyone with a techno-accessory junkie within.

The power comes in the form of either a 2.0-liter inline-4 capable of generating 148 horsepower and135 pound-feet of torque, or a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that produces 167 hp and 168 lb-ft of torque. To transfer power to the wheels, there is yet another list of choices ranging from a five-speed or six-speed manual transmission, as well as a five-speed electronically controlled Sport-AT autobox.

Report: Mazda May Fit Rearward Radar Warning System in 2009

Hardy Shen — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 09:12:02 -0600

The safety features of today have come a long way from just padding and seatbelts. Nowadays, the technology released by auto manufacturers is becoming more and more advanced. Some may even start to implement radar in cars, if a recently released report can be trusted. As the story goes, beginning February 2009, Mazda may be adding a Rear Vehicle Monitoring System (RVMS) as standard on every European Mazda 6 Sport model.

The system utilizes two sensors mounted facing rearward that detect vehicles behind and to the sides of the fitted car. It will alert the driver when there is a car in the blind spot just off the rear of the quarter panels, and even provide a warning if there is a vehicle approaching at a rapid pace. The RVMS will also notify the driver of any vehicle, within 150 feet rear of the car that is approaching at more than 36 miles per hour. This should help drivers to anticipate cars that will be in the blind spot area by the time a lane change is initiated. All of these indications are given through a small speaker near the A-pillar, in the form of a warning tone.

Though the report and the extent in which this safety feature will be fitted have yet been confirmed by Mazda, the system may help reduce the high number of accidents occurring while performing lane change maneuvers.

+ Motor Authority: Mazda implementing rear-facing radar system from 2009

Spy Shot: 2010 Mazdaspeed3 Scooped at Nürburgring

Seyth Miersma — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 06:18:19 -0500

Now that the new Mazda3 has been shown to off to the public, it seems that engineers at Mazda are plowing ahead with another new version of the car, the fire-breathing 2010 Mazdaspeed3.

The first super noticeable feature on the upcoming white hot hatch is the massive scoop that graces the front hood, surely an add worthy of a second glance from even the most died-the-wool Subaru junkie. That intake is likely there to feed a turbocharged 2.5-liter four, with Mazda said to increasing displacement just a bit for this generation of Speed3. The resultant powerplant should be good for at least 300 horsepower, and may even signal a shift to an all-wheel-drive vehicle—though a front driver is still the most likely configuration.

An impressive set of front and rear spoilers, as well as two hefty exhaust pipes help to complete the look of the ultra aggressive Mazda; making our hearts beat a little faster at the prospect of our first drive in the process. Read the photographer’s own notes below.

Will Mazda try to give Subaru and Mitsubishi a hard life when talking about wannabe rally cars? Well, it sure looks that way when we see this new Mazda 3 in a hi-performance version.

Look at that big air intake on the engine hood…wow. And we guess that the cammo also hides some big holes in the front bumper as well. At the rear of this Mazda 3 we can also find a gigantic rear spoiler and two fat exhaust pipes.

The question is if they give this Mazda 3 MPS four wheel drive this time, or keep it a front wheel drive like the last one. We heard some rumors that the 3 MPS will get the same engine and drivetrain like the upcoming Ford Focus RS, meaning 300 horsepower on the front wheels.

I guess sooner or later we will find out, until then, just enjoy the photos while the prototype takes some quick laps around the Nürburgring.

Editors' Roundtable: 2009 Mazda RX-8 GT

NextAutos Staff — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 09:00:11 -0500

The Mazda RX-8 continues to have us puzzled as to why more of these aren’t on the road. No, the rotary engine isn’t four-season friendly, and neither is the car’s rear-wheel-drive, but when the weather is right, the RX-8 really shines. For 2009, a re-worked exterior sports a slightly more aggressive fascia, and while our Grand Touring model doesn’t have all of the beefy visual add-ons found on the R3 (a new model for ’09), we still had a lot of fun throwing this Mazda into bends and revving the twin-rotor engine way up past 8000 rpm.

(Click through the post to read our full notes on the RX-8.)

Chris Paukert
Editor-In-Chief

The last time I drove an RX-8, it was in decidedly wet and frigid, and the driving experience was every bit as unpleasant as the weather. The RX-8 I drove last year was so cold that it felt like the gearbox and suspension were filled with molasses, the car rode hard and creaked and flexed noticeably over rough pavement (leading me to suspect the robustness of the chassis), and the 1.3-liter rotary lacked its characteristic quick-revving fizz. Even the defroster was uncooperative.

What a difference a change in weather makes.

Whether down to the update for 2009 or the markedly better climate conditions, this was the RX-8 we were promised: With useful—but not exactly overwhelming—power from the zero-inertia Wankel, excellent steering feel and accuracy (perhaps the best electrically-assisted setup we’ve encountered), and easily modulated brakes, the RX-8 was a willing dance partner. Further, the structure felt stiffer, evincing only a hint of chassis flex. It might have been the warmer temperatures, or it might have been the new trapezoidal front strut brace and rear suspension fiddling, but our tester was an unbridled joy on back roads and a sensible ride over Detroit’s badly broken pavement.

I definitely wouldn’t want this to be a year ‘round ride, but for about three seasons in these parts, this would be a boatload of fun. Bring on the R3, please.

Seyth Miersma
Senior Editor

It has been a while now since the eye-catching design and innovative four-door (two and two-half doors?) layout of the RX-8 was helping to generate a lot of ink for Mazda, but the car is no less spectacular for the maturity. One of the reasons is that the RX-8 has rather timeless driving dynamics, with perfect weight distribution, a near complete lack of body roll, and some of the most sublimely nimble steering I’ve yet had the pleasure to sample. The six-speed manual was a fine complement to this package, offering accurate and super-fast shifts through the Wankel engine rotor-shaped (re: a sort of curvy triangle) shift lever. The clutch pedal was far too light for my liking, however.

The 1.3-liter rotary engine won’t overwhelm anyone with its urge—though it has a rather addictive, turbine-like howl at high revs—the Mazda feels as though it could keep up with just about anything on any road more interestingly shaped than pin-straight.

Meanwhile the rear-opening half doors are as useful as ever, not only for passengers, but also for the assorted laptop bags, groceries, and miscellanea that follow us through life. More sports car shoppers should consider the RX-8.

Nate Luzod
Art Director

Despite having driven one on three separate occasions, I never really "got" the RX-8 until this most recent drive. In the vehicle's defense, every time prior was in rain, and a car like this has no surprises in store as far as coping with inclement weather is concerned.

The triangular shape of the small, palm-of-your-hand short throw shifter takes some getting used to, but is actually quite ergonomically friendly. The 232-horsepower, 1.3-liter rotary engine revs high and it does so quickly. Smooth acceleration from first to second takes some practice and is best worked on without your moody girlfriend riding shotgun. Second gear to 3rd is surprisingly smooth, and fourth and fifth gear are where the car seems to shine. The high-pitched whine of the engine at 8000 rpm is interesting to say the least, but probably not a selling point for this driver.

Handling is tight and the car feels wider and sportier than it actually looks. 80 miles-per-hour is effortless, and the car's confidence at speed encourages you to push the annoying digital speedometer closer and closer to triple digits. That said, the vehicle's inside is reasonably comfortable and well-styled, though there are some areas drivers are likely to take issue with.

The low seating position has us peering out over what seems to be a massive nose, and the Zoom-Zoom styled bulbous wheel wells only accentuate this. That, coupled with not great rear visibility may make for more-careful-than-necessary lane changing, but the entertainment value of the drive more than makes up for this.

Steven J. Ewing
Production and Test Fleet Manager

Although I was only able to spend a few moments in the RX-8, I was reminded of how much I really enjoy driving this little car. It’s a good alternative to a Nissan 350Z, and the added rear doors make it more useful than one would imagine. This car is immensely fun to throw into tight bends with excellent response from the steering wheel, and the six-speed manual transmission is a real joy to use. While the R3 will be the pure enthusiast’s choice, this GT model is still quite stylish and refined without being over-the-top bold. If I lived in a warmer climate, I’d love to have one in my garage.

2009 MAZDA RX-8 GRAND TOURING

Engine: Rotary, 1.3 liters, 2 rotors
Output: 232 hp/159 lb-ft
Transmission: Six-speed manual
0-60 MPH: 5.9 seconds (est.)
Top Speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)
Weight: 3064 lb

Price as Tested: $34,570

Mazda Flow Continues as Kiyora Drops at Paris Motor Show

Seyth Miersma — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 13:57:38 -0500

Say this for Mazda designers; they certainly know how to get some serious mileage from a single design theme. Casting its tried and true Nagare styling language into the form of a highly efficient city car, Mazda came up with the flowing Kiyora for the Paris show. The concept may look radical, but it is powered by a truly conventional small four-cylinder engine; relying more on a slippery shape and lightness to make mpg headway.

Have a closer look at the Kiyora in our huge live image gallery of the concept above.

Preview: First Photos of 2010 Mazda3 Sedan

Chris Paukert — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 20:44:50 -0500

We’ve seen plenty of spy shots of the 2010 Mazda3, but now the automaker has released the first official images of its new pivotal compact. The overhead front photo of a sedan variant came bundled with a press release confirming that the sedan will debut on November 19 at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show, while the five-door model will roll out elsewhere on the international show circuit.

Although no real specifics were divulged, the Mazda3 is expected to be marginally longer and wider than the outgoing car, and it will once again be available in America with a choice of two four-cylinder engines, a 2.0-liter and a 2.5-liter, both with direct-injection.

What do you think of the 3’s new duds? Check out the official press release below, then drop us a line in ‘Comments.’

All New Mazda3 Sedan to Debut at 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show

IRVINE, Calif. - Mazda Motor Corporation has confirmed thatthe sedan version of the all-new MAZDA3 (known as Mazda Axela in Japan), fullyredesigned for the first time in five years, will be revealed at the LosAngeles Auto Show*1 on November 19, 2008.

The covers will be pulled off during Mazda's pressconference at 12:20 p.m. (local time) revealing the all-new MAZDA3, the latestevolution of Mazda's Zoom-Zoom spirit.

Every element of the all-new MAZDA3 has been developed forheightened exhilaration, with a more refined sporty ride, top-class fueleconomy and quietness. Environmental and safety features,¡¡based on Mazda'slong-term "Sustainable Zoom-Zoom" vision, aim to achieve a balancewith fun-to-drive. Add in a new expressive face and Mazda's dynamic designelements, and the all-new MAZDA3 is everything a driver could ask for in asports compact.

The brand-new version of Mazda's best-selling sports compactcarries 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 millionvehicles*2 in over 100 countries and has won more than 90 global motoringawards*3 to date. The MAZDA3 accounts for almost one in three Mazdas sold everyyear.

Following the world debut of the North Americanspecification sedan with 2.0- and 2.5-liter engines at the show, the five-doorhatchback version will be revealed in line with Mazda's global sales schedule.

*1 Press days are November 19 and 20, and public days areNovember 21 through 30.

*2 Currently Mazda's top-selling model globally, with one ofthe highest production volumes of any single model in Japan.
*3 Awards include: Car of the Year in Russia, Canada, Spain,Israel, Thailand, Hong Kong, Indonesia, etc., and European Car of the Yearsecond place.

Revealed In Paris: Refreshed Mazda MX-5 Miata

Chris Paukert — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 10:49:09 -0500

Mazda has just lifted the veil on its updated MX-5 Miata, and in addition to new the obvious exterior changes, there are some incremental but important changes beneath the skin.

In the main, the European-spec MX-5 receives a redline that’s 500 rpm higher than the current model. In part, that has been made possible by a new forged crankshaft, redesigned valve springs and fully floating pistons. The six-speed manual gearbox has revamped synchros (the triple-cone pieces on 1st-4th gear are carbon coated, and the diameter of the syncros on both 3rd and 4th has been increased). The suspension has also been buttoned up, with Mazda claiming a lower front roll center thanks to new settings on the same basic architecture. The MX-5 gets a bit stiffer and quieter, too, thanks to revamped cross bracing and new reinforcements in the door structures and additional sound deadening material. On the creature comforts front, there’s an uprated Bose stereo and Bluetooth available, along with revamped HVAC controls, and so on.

The big news, however, is on the outside, thanks to the revamped front fascia and new light clusters front and rear. The current car’s oval opening has given way to a rounded five-point grille that’s more in keeping with the brand’s corporate face, and there are new side sills to carry along the changes to the rear. Interestingly, Mazda has chosen to differentiate the folding hardtop model with some chrome flourishes around the headlights, fog lights, grille opening, and door handles.

No word yet on when the revamped MX-5 will hit North American dealers, but expect for it to arrive largely unaltered from its Parisian debut, and expect for it to carry a 2010 model year designation.

What do you think, has Mazda done enough to keep the MX-5 on shopping lists? Check out the gallery above and the press release below, and let us know what you think in 'Comments.'

(Press release below)

Refreshed Mazda MX-5 (known in Japan as the Mazda Roadster)

The refreshed and upgraded Mazda MX-5 embodies the purest form of Zoom-Zoom.
With evolution in its attributes and qualities, it continues to deliver unchanging value of
‘Jinba-Ittai’ even in the changing world. Marking the 20th anniversary next year, the
new MX-5 offers driving experience with ‘lots of fun’ underpinned by untiring passion
of Mazda engineers since 1989.

Updates at a Glance

Newly evolved look that’s functional and instantly recognizable, as Mazda, and as MX-5
・ Exterior styling with greater dynamism & athleticism, which contributes to superior
aerodynamics
・ Strongly emphasized a premium identity in the look and feel of the Roadster Coupe
More enhanced ‘Fun’ to enable the driver to enjoy the full potential of the engine
performance
・ 500 rpm higher rev limit and the raised engine speed at max power
・ Introduced a forged crankshaft, fully floating pistons and newly designed valve springs
Sportier engine sound and crisper response to accelerator inputs
・ Surge tank rigidity optimization, new forged crankshaft and ISE, Induction Sound
Enhancer (for 6MT)
Smoother gear shifting feel with brisk and high-quality steering feel
・ With 6MT, the meshing surfaces of the 1st–4th triple-cone synchronizers are now carbon
coated, and the 3rd–4th synchronizer diameter has been increased
・ Linear & sporty 6AT that’s newly available for Europe, incorporates two new control
technologies, Direct Activematic (DAM) and Active Adaptive Shift (AAS).
・ A lower front roll centre and retuned suspension make the car’s response to steering inputs
more linear and enable the driver to precisely trace desired lines. The yaw and roll also
feel more natural, producing a higher-quality ride
・
Improved quietness

・ Roadster Coupe cockpit road noise with the roof closed is 2.1dB lower than before.
Improvements include urethane filling in the front suspension member and damping
material in the front roof section.
・ Quietness is further promoted in the Roadster Coupe and soft-top version by stiffer door
modules and by newly added reinforcements on the No 2 crossmember.
Environmental, safety and conformability
・ More convenient features – improved Bose®sound system, 5 step adjustable seat heater,
etc.
・ Average fuel consumption and outside air temperature display is available
・ More models featuring DSC as standard equipment

Editors’ Note
All information in this press copy is based on the specifications of the freshened Mazda MX-5 at the time of writing. Mazda’s
product development is ongoing, so certain details of the vehicle may change. For confirmation, please contact the nearest
Mazda public relations representative.

Introduction: Evolution Focused on Pure Jinba Ittai Enjoyment

At the 2008 Paris Motor Show, Mazda is unveiling the refreshed and upgraded Mazda MX-5
and Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe.* Both versions of the MX-5 have been refined for an
even purer experience of Jinba Ittai—the unique feeling of oneness between driver and car
that has distinguished the MX-5 since its inception.

Since launching the first-generation MX-5 in 1989, Mazda has stuck to the concept that
driving enjoyment is the key value offered by the MX-5. Through two full redesigns and
countless improvements, we’ve continued to heighten and improve the MX-5’s Jinba Ittaifocused
‘lots of fun’ character. We expanded the MX-5’s appeal to an even broader audience
in 2006 with the launch of the MX-5 Roadster Coupe. As demands for safety and
environmental compatibility have grown amid major changes in the automotive environment,
we’ve continued to incorporate new technologies and innovations without compromising the
MX-5’s inherent lightness.

With the latest MX-5 upgrade, we set out to combine an enhanced Jinba Ittai feeling with
revisions that would further consolidate the MX-5’s reputation as the most enjoyable
lightweight two-seat sportscar in the world. With the new design, we retained the wellknown
friendly facial expression, while incorporating elements of Mazda’s latest design
themes for a dynamic, athletic look that embodies the MX-5’s function and purpose as a
sportscar. With the Roadster Coupe, we strongly emphasized a premium identity in the look
and feel of the body and cabin.

With regard to dynamic performance, we enhanced characteristics that appeal to the
emotions yet cannot be expressed in terms of catalogue specifications. For example, we
optimized the engine potential for greater enjoyment, created a sportier engine sound that
responds more crisply to accelerator inputs, and realized a brisk, high-quality steering feel
that gives a more linear response to movements of the steering wheel. And at the same time,
we enhanced the MX-5 in terms of comfort, convenience, fuel economy, and safety.

MX-5 Programme Manager Takao Kijima says: “Although the kind of driving experience
that people find enjoyable in a lightweight sportscar never really changes, maintaining it in a
vehicle that must also meet the continually changing demands of society is a daily challenge
for Mazda engineers, and a particularly vital mission with the MX-5. Speaking as the
engineer in charge of MX-5 development, I’m convinced that the MX-5 is –
and will remain – more enjoyable than any competing car. I’m delighted that the new MX-
5 and the newly evolved Jinba Ittai fun that it offers will soon be thrilling customers who
already embrace the MX-5 philosophy, and those who are about to encounter the MX-5 for
the first time.”

*The version with a retractable hard top has various names according to market. In Europe,
it’s called the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe. In North America, it’s called the Mazda MX-5
Power Retractable Hard Top. And in Japan, it’s called the Mazda Roadster Power
Retractable Hard Top.

Heritage

Worldwide Acclaim and More than 850,000 Units of Production

The MX-5 has enjoyed worldwide popularity since its first-generation debut in 1989. Indeed,
it is recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s highest-selling two-seat
convertible sportscar in history. Since the launch of the third-generation model, the MX-5
has won more than 175 accolades including the 2005–2006 Japan Car of the Year award;
Wheels magazine’s 2005 Car of the Year award; Top Gear magazine’s Roadster of the Year
2005 award; a place in Car and Driver magazine’s 2006 Ten Best Cars list; and selection by
Consumer Reports as the best 2008 car in the ‘fun to drive’ category. Aggregate MX-5
production stood at 852,682 units at the end of July 2008, which looks set to be recognized
again by Guinness World Records as the highest-ever production volume for a two-seat
convertible sports car.

MX-5’s ‘Lots of Fun’ Character

The ‘lots of fun’ character conceived by Mazda for the MX-5 encompasses several kinds of
fun: the fun of driving it, the fun of seeing its great styling, the fun of personalizing it, the fun
of using it to get together with friends, and the fun of owning and using the MX-5 on a dayto-
day basis. And underpinning this ‘lots of fun’ character is the feeling that Mazda calls
Jinba Ittai. In developing the third-generation MX-5, Mazda engineers clearly defined Jinba
Ittai by creating a fishbone chart with six categories (styling, touching, listening, driving,
cornering, and braking) which were then broken down into individual attributes. With
reference to the fishbone chart, they then used techniques based on Mazda’s unique
philosophy of Kansei engineering to conduct development with a focus on enjoyment,
beauty, and emotional attachment (values that can’t be measured in numerical terms). With
the latest facelift, all members of the development team used the fishbone chart again as a
way to keep their goals consistent while evolving the MX-5 to meet new social demands and
customer expectations.

An Uncompromising Focus on Lightness

In the third-generation MX-5’s development, Mazda engineers pursued the ‘gram’ strategy (a
programme of weight minimization on a component-by-component basis), used cutting-edge
technologies to make the body light and rigid, and adopted materials that were stronger and
lighter than those used in the second-generation MX-5. As a result, they were able to limit
the overall weight increase to just 10 kg (22 lb) and enhance performance at the same time.
With the latest upgrade, the development team adopted new mechanicals and equipment
throughout the MX-5, but again kept the overall weight increase to an absolute minimum.
The MX-5’s ideal 50:50 front/rear weight distribution and the reduced yaw-inertia moment
achieved by Mazda with the third-generation MX-5 are totally uncompromised.
Design

A Newly Evolved Look that’s Functional and Instantly Recognizable

Design and craftsmanship, which are encompassed, respectively, by the ‘styling’ and
‘touching’ categories in the fishbone chart, are particularly crucial to a sportscar since they’re
the main source of the car’s ‘fun to own’ and ‘fun to use’ characteristics. They must
complement and underpin the car’s functionality. With the latest MX-5, the development
team incorporated elements of Mazda’s newest design themes while carefully carrying
forward the simple and instantly recognizable personality that Mazda established with the
first-generation MX-5. The updated exterior styling reflects an evolution toward greater
dynamism and athleticism, and it contributes to superior aerodynamic performance. The
updated interior design realizes significantly enhanced quality and a more functional, driverfriendly
sports-car cockpit.

Exterior Design: A Fusion of New Mazda Elements and an Unmistakable MX-5 Look

The front grille has been enlarged and changed from an oval shape to the five-point grille that
forms part of the well-known Mazda family face. Combined with tautly styled headlights
and flowing fog-lamp bezels, the new grille creates a refined and athletic expression. To
preserve the character that has always been a hallmark of the MX-5, the five points of the
grille are slightly rounded. Also, the new shape of the front bumper, with corners that extend
downwards, enhances the dynamic look and improves the aerodynamics.

Viewed from the side, newly designed side sills form a character line that flows to the rear
bumper in a way that emphasizes speed and stability. The reshaped side sills deflect air away
from the rear wheels, and thereby contribute to superior aerodynamic performance.
The rear bumper has a new design that makes the rear look wider, sportier, and more
integrated into the body. The rear combination lamps inherit the traditional MX-5 elliptical
motif, and protrude further outboard for greater aerodynamic efficiency.

The Roadster Coupe’s more Upscale Identity

The MX-5 Roadster Coupe, which features a groundbreaking powered roof system, also
incorporates several design changes that further emphasize its more upscale identity and
distinguish it from the soft-top version.

• Front grille: Whereas the soft-top version has a fin-type grille, the Roadster Coupe has a
mesh grille that is framed by a chrome ring.
• Headlamp inner bezels: The headlamp inner bezels are painted silver on the soft-top
version, but have a chrome finish on the Roadster Coupe.
• Fog-lamp inner bezels: The fog lamp inner bezels are black on the soft-top version, but
are painted silver on the Roadster Coupe.
• Outer door handles: The outer door handles are body-coloured on the soft-top version,
but have a chrome finish on the Roadster Coupe.
• High-mounted stop lamp: The high-mounted stop lamp has a red lens on the soft-top
version, but a clear lens on the Roadster Coupe.

New Wheel Designs

The MX-5 is available with 16-inch and 17-inch aluminium wheels. The 16-inch wheels
have five sets of twin spokes for a lightweight look. The 17-inch wheels have 10 twisted
spokes for a stronger impression of power and dynamism.

Interior Design: Higher Than Ever Quality and Driver-Friendliness

The interior design delivers the MX-5’s traditional combination of comfortable snugness
below shoulder level and openness above shoulder level. It also reflects customer feedback
in the form of enhanced quality and driver-friendly features.

The decorative surfaces on the instrument panel have been changed from glossy piano
black to dark silver, which has a subtler, higher-quality look befitting a sportscar. The
gauges have new graphics for higher legibility. The climate-control dials on the centre stack
have each been given a silver-coloured ring for a higher-quality look. A protrusion has been
eliminated from the outer surface of each door pocket to create more leg space. And the door
and centre-console armrests have each been given a soft pad for a better feel.

Recaro seats designed exclusively for the MX-5 are available in certain regions. They are
upholstered in leather and perforated Alcantara® for a sporty look, and they combine
excellent support with easy ingress and egress.

Colour Variations

The MX-5 for Europe has a line-up of seven body colours including two new choices:
Aluminium Metallic (a mix of sportiness and refinement) and Metropolitan Grey Mica. The
soft top is black. Standard (non-Recaro) seats in the MX-5 for Europe are upholstered with
black fabric or with black leather depending on grade. The leather and perforated
Alcantara® on the Recaro seats have a black-based two-tone colour scheme. The full line-up
of body colours is as follows:
Aluminium Metallic (new)
Metropolitan Grey Mica (new)
Sunflower Yellow (new; not available in Europe)
Copper Red Mica
Stormy Blue Mica
True Red
Brilliant Black
Marble White (soft-top version only)
*Alcantara® is a Registered Trademark owned by Alcantara S.p.A

A 500 rpm Higher Rev Limit Maximizes Engine Potential

The MX-5 powertrain has been enhanced to enable the driver to enjoy the full potential of the
engine’s performance. Specifically, the speed at which the engine delivers maximum power
has been raised from 6,700 rpm to 7,000 rpm (2.0-litre M/T version) and the rev limit has
been raised from 7,000 rpm to 7,500 rpm (all 2.0-litre versions). Without these
enhancements, the engine feels smooth and linear right up to the rev limit, even with the
throttle wide open. With them, the driver can really experience the sensation of extracting
every single horsepower out of the engine (the enhancements described here apply to the 2.0-
litre grades with a manual transmission). The crucial 500 rpm increase in the rev limit is
enabled by greater precision in the engine, namely: a forged crankshaft (this ensures the
required rigidity at high engine speeds), fully floating pistons and newly designed valve
springs.

A Sportier Engine Sound that Responds More Crisply to Accelerator Inputs

The engine sound (a key element in the ‘listening’ category of the MX-5 fishbone chart) is a
big part of the sportscar experience. With the latest upgrade, Mazda engineers made the MX-
5 engine sound even better without causing aural discomfort for people outside the car.
Notably, they increased the rigidity of the plastic surge tank in the intake manifold. The
optimized surge tank combines with the new forged crankshaft to realize a clearer engine
sound throughout the rev-range. In vehicles with the six-speed manual transmission, the
engineers also adopted a newly developed device called an Induction Sound Enhancer
(I/8SE). This amplifies the pulses that occur when an accelerator input opens the throttle
valve to increase air flow into the engine, thereby delivering a more exciting sound to the
cockpit. The intake sound created by the ISE feels synchronized with the driver’s accelerator
inputs, so the driver enjoys a crisp, thrilling engine sound even when using the accelerator
pedal gently.

Newly Evolved and Refined Transmissions

With the six-speed manual transmission, the meshing surfaces of the 1st–4th triple-cone
synchronizers are now carbon coated, and the 3rd–4th synchronizer diameter has been
increased. These improvements enable smoother shifts up to the engine’s heightened rev
limit of 7,500 rpm.

A six-speed Activematic automatic transmission – newly available with the MX-5 in
Europe – incorporates two new control technologies. One is Direct Activematic (DAM),
which allows the driver to quickly change gears using paddles on the steering wheel while
still driving in the ‘D’ range. It was developed to enable quick downshifts for three common
situations: decelerating using engine braking on a downhill road; accelerating after
decelerating into a corner; and overtaking another vehicle. (The driver does not need to
select the ‘M’ range before shifting down.) Since Direct Activematic enables engine braking
and acceleration more quickly and easily, it makes driving easier and more fun.

The other new technology is Active Adaptive Shift (AAS), which enables the transmission
control system to evaluate the driving situation from factors such as the road’s gradient and
twistiness and the driver’s accelerator and brake inputs. When the system recognizes
enthusiastic driving, it actively promotes quicker upshifts and downshifts to realize a linear
and sporty response that matches the driver’s intentions.

Handling that Further Heightens the Jinba Ittai Feeling

The MX-5 development team also heightened the Jinba Ittai feeling by comprehensively
refining attributes in the category that’s called ‘cornering’ on the fishbone chart. A key
refinement was made to the front suspension knuckles. The ball joints’ vertical pivot position
was changed to reduce the height of the front roll centre by 26 mm. This decreased
fluctuations in the vertical loading on the outer (more heavily loaded) wheel during cornering
manoeuvres. Consequently, roll movements caused by steering inputs feel more natural and
the car’s response to steering inputs is more linear. In combination with newly tuned
suspension components, the revision improves the Jinba Ittai steering feel whereby the driver
can precisely follow desired cornering lines. It also realizes a higher-quality ride by making
the yaw and roll feel more natural.

An Athletic Design that Heightens Aerodynamic Performance

To improve handling stability, quietness, and high-speed fuel economy, the MX-5
development team drew on Mazda’s expertise in incorporating aerodynamic improvements
into styling that’s faithful to a design theme. The main aerodynamic improvements are as
follows:
• air guides that protrude downward from the left and right corners of the front bumper
• a cover over the lower opening in the front bumper (Europe-specification vehicles, except
some specific markets)
• protruding rear combination lamps
• wider front tyre deflectors
As a result of these improvements, both the soft-top version and Roadster Coupe have top
class aerodynamics for their class.
Comfort and Utility
A Quieter Ride in the Roadster Coupe
Given the Roadster Coupe’s more upscale positioning, the development team produced a
quieter ride by reducing wheel resonance and adding damping and sound-insulating
materials, such as urethane filling in the front suspension crossmember and damping material
in the front part of the roof. Thanks to these improvements, road noise in the cockpit on a
coarse road surface with the roof closed is a significant 2.1dB lower than before. Quietness
is further promoted in the Roadster Coupe and soft-top version by stiffer door modules and
by newly added reinforcements on the No 2 crossmember.

New Equipment for Comfort and Convenience

• Bose® sound system (optional): New features such as a six channel equalizer (with
separate channels for the woofers and the door-mounted mid-to-high frequency speakers)
achieve clearer, more dynamic sound reproduction.
• AUX jack: Personal audio devices can be connected to the car’s audio system. There is
also a 12V power socket.
• Bluetooth telephone system (optional): Hands-free communication is possible without
even having to physically plug in Bluetooth-capable mobile telephones. The driver can
make and accept calls using voice commands or controls mounted on the steering wheel.
• Improved seat heaters (optional): Shorter warmup times are complemented by five
levels of adjustability (as opposed to the previous on/off control) for greater comfort.
• Storage for small items: The divider that forms cupholders in the centre-console can be
removed to create a handy box for small items. There is also a net pocket on each door.
Ecology and Safety

Enhanced Environmental Performance for Greater Enjoyment

Mazda regards efforts to reduce fuel economy and exhaust emissions not only as a vital way
to protect the environment but also as a way to make sportscars more fun to drive.
With the latest MX-5, Mazda engineers addressed fuel economy by reducing the rolling
resistance of the tyres, reducing engine friction, and revising the transmission gear ratios.
Lower exhaust emissions were achieved through upgraded precious metals in the catalytic
converter. The MX-5’s improved emission performance complies with Japan’s SU-LEV
standard, the European Union’s Stage 4 standard, and the United States’ ULEV2 standard.
To promote eco-driving, the digital display on the instrument panel can show the average
fuel consumption. The display can be toggled between average fuel consumption, a double
tripmeter, and the outside air temperature.

Rigorous Attention to Safety

Improved active safety on the European MX-5 is realized by expanded availability of a tyre
pressure monitoring system and by more models featuring Dynamic Stability Control as
standard equipment.

The MX-5 facelift will be introduced on the European market in early spring 2009.
Major Specifications: Mazda MX-5 for Europe (1)

(1) Data subject to homologation
Overall length 4,020 mm
Overall width 1,720 mm
Overall height 1,245 mm （ RHT 1,255mm）
Wheelbase 2,330 mm
Track (front/rear) 1,490 mm/1,495 mm
Dimensions
Seating capacity 2 persons
Type MZR 1.8L I4 DOHC 16-valve
MZR 2.0L I4 DOHC 16-valve
Max. output (target) 1.8L: 93kW (126PS) / 6,500 rpm
2.0L with MT: 118kW (160PS) / 7,000 rpm
2.0L with AT: 118kW (160PS) / 6,700 rpm
Max. torque (target) 1.8L: 167Nm /4,500 rpm
2.0L: 188Nm /5,000 rpm
Engines
Bore x stroke 1.8L: 83.0 mm x 83.1 mm
2.0L: 87.5 mm x 83.1 mm
Transmissions Type 5-speed manual
6-speed manual
6-speed Activematic
Steering Type Rack and pinion
Suspension Type (front/rear) Double wishbone/multilink
Brakes Type (front/rear) Ventilated disc/solid disc
Tyres and wheels Tyres 16”: 205/50 R16 (front/rear)
17”: 205/45 R17 (front/rear)
Wheels 16”: 16 x 6 1/2J (front/rear)
17”: 17 x 7J (front/

Mazda Kazamai CUV Concept Unveiled at Moscow International Auto Salon

Hardy Shen — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 14:38:44 -0500

To reveal the anticipated Kazamai concept at the Moscow International Auto Salon, Mazda reached into its bag of tricks and pulled out four sets of dancers, guys in neon-pink shorts on roller skates, and to top it all off a forty man singing group adorned in Soviet-style attire. Though the singing group fits within a Russian theme, one has to wonder where the idea for pink men on roller skates came from.

The two-door crossover concept Kazamai, which means "swirling crosswinds" in Japanese, is one of several recent concepts that were designed using the "Nagare" design language. As seen above the tangible concept is indeed faithful to the initial renderings released in mid-July.

It is still skeptical whether or not this will be the new CX-7 but hopefully it will still keep most, if not all, of its radical curves and lines.

+ Autoblog: Moscow 2008: Mazda Kazamai concept officially unveiled

Road Test: We Drive the 2009 Mazda6

Chris Paukert — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 12:08:09 -0500

Hard as it may be to fathom, we automotive journalists get things wrong every once in a while. Despite perpetually cheering for the 2003-2008 Mazda6’s ragtag charms and dynamic excellence in a crowd of somnambulant sedans, it never really sold. Nevermind that it was a wieldy package and fun to grab by the scruff on winding roads, it languished on showroom floors while far duller drives poured out of showrooms like so many bags of rice. Heck, we even heartily applauded the availability of a segment-best three separate body styles (sedan, wagon, and touring), as well as a genuine high-performance variant, the Mazdaspeed6. Still no dice. Great handling and a multiplicity of formats are evidently no substitute for outright size and power in the family sedan stakes. Not that we’re bitter or anything.

Apparently feeling our pain, Mazda officials at the 6’s stateside launch daubed egg from the assembled motoring media’s faces, and in true Japanese fashion, they apologized. In fact, they were refreshingly forthcoming and crystal clear about why the Mazda6 failed to crack the ranks of the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and Chevrolet Malibu. According to Jeremy Barnes, director of product and corporate communications, shoppers rejected the outgoing 6 for the following reasons: 25.1 percent of consumers passed because of quality concerns, 16.5 percent felt that it didn’t offer adequate power, and 15 percent passed due to size reservations (read: it wasn’t big enough).

Which brings us to the altogether shapely thing you see here. A quick glance at the spec sheet of this car suggests that Mazda has soundly thumped at least two of these issues, size and power. Of graver concern to us is whether the bolder new 6 manages to preserve the company’s “Zoom-Zoom” fun-to-drive mantra in their bid to woo the Great American Consumer.

By the tape measure, the 2009 Mazda6 stretches 193.7-inches long (up 6.9 inches), 72.4-inches wide (up 2.3 inches), and rides on a 109.8-inch wheelbase (up 4.5 inches). Despite casting a larger shadow, the new 6 is anything but visually ponderous. Its RX-8/CX-7–informed front fenders lend it a voluptuous and imposing presence, and a high bustle yields both a class-leading 0.27 coefficient of drag and segment-best trunk space (16.6 cubic feet). The car is so shapely that we had to ask Mazda’s design head, Franz “Hollywood” van Holzhausen if the 6’s tumblehome (the inward arch of the side glass) is more steeply raked than its competitors. It isn’t, but the aggressive greenhouse has a certain concept-car quality that initially led us to suspect tight head and shoulder room. Critically, this is a sedan that looks great even in base trim, with sixteen-inch wheels that don’t get lost in their wheelwells, LED taillamps, and elegant projector headlamps that lend a premium aura. Better still, with a clean shape devoid of aerodynamic tack-ons and chrome frosting, we expect for time to wear handsomely on the 6’s shapely hips.

Inside, this Mazda’s look is similarly one of modernity and sophistication. A quantum leap forward from the outgoing model, the 6’s furnishings now rank up at the top of the segment for material quality, panel fit, and feature count. Although a few hidebound dealers are likely to carp, woodgrain is nowhere to be found, nor are fillets of increasingly trendy carbon fiber-look material. Hooray! Instead, base cars receive a tightly dimpled “matrix” finish, with uplevel models getting very attractive gloss black trim with undulating silvery threads. While that last bit may sound a bit contrived, it’s attractively executed and provides a nice tie-in to the exterior’s curvaceous forms.

As all models are comprehensively equipped, there are only a handful of option packages available, including an intuitive navigation system with a large seven-inch display, moonroof, and Bose stereo suite. We’ve never been fans of blind spot detection technology, and could do without Mazda’s first-in-class system that is standard on Grand Touring models or available bundled with the otherwise desirable convenience package (which includes niceties like Xenon lamps as well as Bluetooth phone and streaming audio). The blind spot system isn’t a bad setup as far as these things go, and it’s defeatable, but when disengaged, a distracting amber warning light in the gauge cluster is triggered that is uncomfortably similar to a “check engine” lamp.

Crucially, the 6’s rakish exterior hasn’t hurt interior space at all, and this sedan is bigger inside than most of its competitors, particularly in back. Up front is likewise a happy place to occupy, with comfortable, supportive seats and intuitive controls that rival the best in class for feel. A large starter button is mounted uncharacteristically low in the center stack, but at least Mazda has finally jettisoned its ridiculous keyless credit-card access system in favor of a more traditional fob.

It’s worth highlighting that life inside the 6’s cockpit is luxury car hushed—it’s the quietest car Mazda has ever made, with commendable isolation from wind, road, and drivetrain noise. Even the HVAC unit is less obtrusive than before, and it’s eighteen percent more powerful, a useful improvement as the previous system was chided for its underwhelming performance. If anything, enthusiasts will wish for a more vocal exhaust note, but that will have to be addressed in the aftermarket.

As is de rigeur for this segment, the Mazda6 is available in both four- and six-cylinder flavors, with the 2.5-liter four producing 170 horsepower and 167 pound-feet and the 3.7-liter V-6 generating a whomping great 272 horsepower and 269 pound-feet. (For those that keep tabs on such things, that’s two more ponies and just eleven pound-feet fewer than the dearly-departed Mazdaspeed6.) Pricing for the four-banger “i” model starts at $19,220 while the V-6 “s” will command $24,800 (both prices include destination charges). There is no gas-electric model, an omission that could hurt potential sales among those who like their cars ringed by a green halo whether they actually plump for the hybrid or not.

The inline-four comes with a six-speed manual that is predictably the most involving driver’s car, with nicely spaced pedals and a short-throw shifter with particularly smooth gate-to-gate action, along with an easy-to-modulate (if overlight) clutch pedal. A perfectly sensible five-speed automatic with manual gear selection mode is also available. With either transmission, power is adequate, although the 2.5-liter doesn’t always sound pleasant near the top of its range. On the subject of revs, can someone please explain this growing trend toward tachometers that have no redline indications? This bit of fashion-over-function puffery can’t end soon enough.

In truth, the V-6 is the more agreeable option for both commuting duty and interstate travel, with plenty of torque down throughout the rev range and a particularly obedient six-speed automatic that behaves well during enthusiastic driving. This gearbox readily holds cogs when asked and snaps off crisp shifts when big throttle inputs are summoned. If there’s a demerit here, it’s that the transmission’s software doesn’t always oblige with downshifts that would send the needle into the tach’s nether reaches. Regardless, Mazda’s Active Adaptive Shift control logic (on loan from the RX-8) is more responsive than the systems we observed in the Camry and Accord that were on hand for comparisons. The SportShift push-pull manual selector feature on the gearshift lever is a useful bit of kit, but no paddles are available—a curious omission for a vehicle with a self-proclaimed sporting temperament.

Predictably, the V-6’s class-leading power figures come at the expense of fuel economy, with figures falling from the four-cylinder automatic’s solid 21/30 city/highway miles-per-gallon split, to a middling 17 city and 25 highway. We would love to see the six-cylinder available with a manual transmission as it was in the previous generation, but low take-rates have probably iced that combination for good, in much the same way that the touring and wagon are now no longer part of the program.

With all of this added size and content, you would expect for the 6’s driver engagement and tossability factory to suffer, and you’d be right…but by the narrowest of slivers. Despite its increased size, this new Mazda is stiffer—bending rigidity climbs by 39 percent and torsional rigidity is up by 17 percent, due in part to a 30 percent increase in high-strength steels. The basic architecture employed is familiar fodder: double-wishbones up front and a multilink arrangement out back, although the suspension has been retuned and some parts are new. The newfound chassis solidity allows the tweaked setup to better go about its business keeping everything on the level. Amazingly, torque steer is not an issue.

More encouraging still is word that despite the 6’s substantial increases both dimensionally and in overall refinement, it is only modestly heavier than its predecessor. The high-volume four-cylinder automatic model is just thirty-five pounds heftier, and the result strikes us as bulking up at the gym, not at the buffet. Overall, the 6 delivers a well-controlled experience with a class-appropriate level of ride comfort (even on eighteens), good transitional responses, and well-controlled pitch and yaw.

Hammering along and around Los Angeles’ legendary Mulholland Drive, we were able to test all of the Mazda6’s faculties without triggering any David Lynchian scenarios. Our Michigan-based staff always relishes getting the chance to drive in exactly these sorts of volcano-formed environments, as they pack more varieties of curves, elevation changes, and scenic vistas into a few minutes’ work than the entire road network around our offices for a couple of hundred miles.

As stopping is perhaps the most important component in such driving, we became concerned upon learning the brakes discs are carryover fare (11.8-inch vented fronts, 11.0-inch solid rears). We needn’t have worried, as a bigger master cylinder and brake booster helped them deliver easy-to-modulate, fade-free performance that caused no expletive-filled moments.

If there’s a sour note in this car’s handling portfolio, it’s that there isn’t quite enough starch in the steering. Oh, it has good accuracy and on-center feel for a front-driver, but it all feels a bit too slow (2.9 turns lock-to-lock) and fails to weigh up appreciably at speed, something that’s particularly noticeable during intense corner-to-corner workouts. Even still, Mazda boasts that the new 6 has a turning circle that’s 3.3 feet smaller than the previous car, making it the tightest of any midsizer.

Mazda has clearly discredited the size and power detractors while sticking to its driver-oriented knitting, but has it adequately dealt with the quality bugbear? Only time will tell, but officials maintain they are confident that their new baby will score markedly better on quality surveys, including those that rank design annoyances alongside of actual failures (J.D. Power is notorious for dinging automakers for things like excessive brake dust in the name of “quality”). Mazda has logged over one million test miles on U.S. roads and reevaluated every step of their production process in order to ensure higher quality. Officials are confidently targeting a 65 percent improvement in Power’s Initial Quality Study, a bogey that would put the 6 ahead of its Japanese rivals.

Mazda says it hopes to release at least 100,000 6s into the wild each year, which would be around a twenty percent improvement on the roughly 80,000 units that they managed to shift of the old car. That’s still a drop in the bucket compared to the 420,000 Camrys, 350,000 Accords, and 250,000+ Altimas that belch forth on to America’s roads each year. Assuming Mazda can make good on its quality goals and gas doesn’t skyrocket to $10 a gallon (taking the midsize segment along with it), if the new 6 isn’t selling 120,000 units annually inside of three years, we’ll eat our Pilotis.

This time you can trust us—Mazda has nothing to apologize for.

NextAutos Daily News Roundup

Seyth Miersma — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 16:17:08 -0500

Say hello to the 2009 Mazda6, in pictures.

+ Autoblog: Pics Aplenty: 2009 Mazda6

The first sighting of Ford’s F-150 Diesel. Sounds like 350 horsepower is a possibility. Looks just like any other F-150 though.

+ Jalopnik: 2009.5 Ford F-150 Diesel Spotted, Could Produce 350 HP

The 2010 Saab 9-4X is said to be headed our way next spring.

+ Edmunds Inside Line: 2010 Saab 9-4X Crossover To Debut Next Spring

Subaru has revealed plans to up the WRX horsepower total to 265 in 2009, partially clearing the way for a new, mid-range Impreza GT model.

+ Motor Authority: Subaru preparing Impreza GT and 265HP WRX for 2009

The first ever owner of the super-slick Foose Coupe hotrod (above) takes delivery. We’d probably have spent our $300,000 differently.

+ Automobile: First Foose Coupe Delivered

Moment of Zen

Mazda Kazamai Concept to be Revealed at Moscow International Automobile Salon

Hardy Shen — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 14:45:26 -0500

According to Mazda, its compact sport crossover vehicle concept, called the Kazamai, will be unveiled at the upcoming Moscow International Automobile Salon on August 26.

Previous concepts such as the Nagare, Ryuga, Hakaze, Taiki and Furai have been modeled with a nature in mind. The Kazamai is no different. Designed with the theme "crosswinds," the Japanese automaker hopes that its unique proportions and unconventional lines will have a deep emotional appeal amongst on-lookers, and give them a sense of visual lightness.

For the exterior, the concept features a five-point grill, low sleek roofline, and very bold wheel arches that barely contain its massive 22-inch wheels. Underneath the sleek body, the Kazamai will be fitted with a next generation direct-injection engine, mated to a newly developed transmission that most likely contains some variant of the dual clutch system. All this will be sitting on a four-wheel drive platform.

Though the construction materials have yet to be confirmed by Mazda, the company did mention that the material is both lightweight and robust. Hopefully this and other mysterious will be revealed to the public at Moscow, where it and other concepts will strut their stuff.

+ Motor Authority: Mazda to reveal new Kazamai concept at Moscow International Automobile Salon

Mazda Crossover Concept to Show in Moscow

Seyth Miersma — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 10:37:07 -0500

Mazda has announced that it will be showing the next concept to feature its Nagare styling language at this year’s Moscow International Automobile Salon. The yet to be named concept will join the ranks of the Nagare, Ryuga, Hakaze, Taiki, and Furai concepts, utilizing the flowing and unconventional design direction.

The automaker isn’t giving much in the way of information for the new concept, saying only that the design theme for this vehicle is “crosswinds.” That broad hint along with a set of renderings point to a small crossover project that Mazda says will be aimed at young SUV owners.

Mazda has chosen the Moscow show as a nod towards the rapidly growing and increasingly important Russian market, of which SUVs make up about 20 percent. Read on for the official press release.

New Mazda Concept Car to Premiere at
Moscow International Automobile Salon

HIROSHIMA, Japan-Mazda will present
an all-new show car at this year's Moscow International Automobile Salon. The
concept is a sporty, compact crossover SUV designed especially for the Russian
market.

The Moscow show car is the latest
concept to be developed using the new design direction called Nagare –
following in the footsteps of Nagare, Ryuga, Hakaze, Taiki and Furai. Nagare,
which means "flow" in Japanese, represents a new approach to
expressing movement in car design, taking as inspiration the flow patterns of
natural elements, such as the wind. The design theme of Mazda's concept for the
2008 Moscow motor show is "crosswinds".

Russia is one of Europe's
fastest-growing markets and is rapidly becoming the region's largest automobile
market. SUVs are particularly popular in Russia, with a segment share of about
20 percent. Mazda's latest concept car is designed to appeal particularly to
younger SUV owners who have a strong sense of style.

The Moscow show car, the name of
which will be announced in due course, again showcases the depth of creativity
within Mazda design. In February 2008, the Mazda Design team received the
coveted Grand Prix du Design at the Festival Automobile International in Paris.

The Moscow International Automobile
Salon media days are on August 26 and 27, whereas August 28 caters for industry
and trade specialists. The show is open to the public from August 29 through
September 7. The new show car will be unveiled at the Mazda press conference at
10:15 on August 26 at the Mazda stand.

Thousands of Mazdas to be Scrapped Two Years After Ship Tip

Chris Paukert — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 13:01:08 -0500

It’s been nearly two years since the cargo ship Cougar Ace tipped on its side near the Aleutians in Alaska, in the process damaging thousands of new Mazda vehicles in its hold. And while company officials were originally optimistic that most of the 4,703 vehicles could be salvaged, in the end they are all finally set to be scrapped.

The damaged vehicles have been rusting away at a Portland, Oregon metal recycling facility since shortly after the July, 2006 incident. Company engineers have finally assessed the damaged vehicles (which had been resting on their sides in salty sea air for a month before they were moved to port), and the new plan is to have them all drained of fluids and scrapped over the next two months.

+ Associated Press: New Mazdas aboard listing ship going to scrap in Oregon (via Oregon Live)

‘08 Geneva: Mazda2 Hatchback Live Shots

Phil Floraday — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 09:30:00 -0600

Mazda is displaying a rather attractive three-door hatchback here in Geneva. We're excited to see the little '2 since the five-door car has done so well with sales and awards. The best part is the rumors of bringing the Mazda2 to U.S. shores. We already know the Ford Fiesta will eventually reach the U.S., and it rides on a Mazda2 platform, but we're genuine fans of Mazda's portfolio and would love the option of a smaller car with a little zoom-zoom in the DNA.

Would you rather have a Ford Fiesta hatchback or a Mazda2 hatchback? Let us know which car is more appealing to you in the comments.