Tag: Mazda

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Mazda

Third-generation Mazda3 revealed

2014 Mazda3

The Mazda3 has just celebrated its tenth birthday and what better way to build on its impressive legacy than by releasing an all-new model. And that’s just what Mazda did overnight, hosting a special preview event in Melbourne, ahead of launches to follow in New York, London, St Petersburg and Istanbul.

As you can see the third-generation Mazda3 draws heavily on the stylish Kodo design language on which the larger Mazda6 is based. The low front-end flows smoothly to a rear-end that we think Subaru probably wished adorned their Impreza. That’s to say the result is, based on the photos provided, cohesive and well resolved. It’s a nice looking car.

The all-new Mazda3 is 60mm longer, 40mm wider and 15mm lower than the old model. It boasts a new and improved interior which introduces a new Human Machine Interface; that means a big screen with all the expected connectivity and infotainment gadgets for the most part. Aside from the faux carbon fibre bits, which rarely look any good, the new interior is a nice progression for Mazda.

An Active Driving Display (read head-up display) will show speed as well as basic sat nav instructions. Althoguh it will only be available on selected models.

In Australia we’ll be offered two engine choices, both are petrol units carrying the Skyactiv-G branding; starting with a 114kW/200Nm 2.0 litre, joined by a 138kW/250Nm 2.5 litre.

Mazda has sold 3.5 million Mazda3s around the world since its initial launch, with almost one in ten going to Australian buyers. We expect its sales success will continue when the car hits local showrooms early next year.

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Mazda

Mazda targets sub-1000kg weight for next MX-5

Mazda MX-5 rendering

Along with the above rendering Autocar brings word that Mazda are aiming to keep the weight of its next MX-5 under 1000kg. A saving of over 130kg on the current model. As usual, we can expect a nice little handler. Further aiding nimble handling is the adoption of production techniques from the RX-8 which will allow the engine to be mounted behind the front axle, while the fuel tank and heaviest parts of the exhaust will be in front of the rear axle.

Mazda is scheduled to unveil its fourth generation MX-5 towards the end of 2011 at the Tokyo Motor Show, before its sales launch in 2012.

[Source: Autocar]

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Mazda Motor Shows

Mazda MX-5 to refresh MIMS

2009 Mazda MX-5

Mazda revealed its facelifted MX-5 at last year’s Paris Motor Show. Now, it has released a full suite of images of the updated NC model. The refreshed MX-5 will have its first Australian preview on the stands of the Melbourne International Motor Show later this month. It will go on Australian sale in late March.

This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the iconic roadster. Affordable drop tops are all the rage these days. However, back in 1989 the possibility of a rear wheel drive convertible for sub $30K was not so common.

Amazingly, Takao Kijima has been involved in all three generations of MX-5, “I have been involved with the Mazda MX-5 since the project was first approved in 1986, and was lucky enough to be a chassis engineer on the first model that established the MX-5 roadster’s reputation as an exciting and affordable lightweight sports car.

“I was honoured to succeed Toshihiko Hirai as MX-5 programme manager in 1995 and lead the team on the second and third generation MX-5.”

Still the only “affordable” rear wheel drive roadster on the market the current MX-5 is available with six speed manual or automatic transmissions with a 118kW 2.0 litre four cylinder engine. A traditional rag top is the entry level option, or a folding metal roof can be yours if you choose.

More facelift images after the jump.

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Mazda

Mazda3 hatch sneak peak

Mazda3 hatch

Following the release of Mazda3 sedan images and details, the Japanese manufacturer has released a few teaser images for the new Mazda3 hatch. The hatchback will have a full reveal at the 2008 Bologna Motor Show at 9am on 3 December (7pm AEDST).

The December 2008 issue of Wheels magazine also reports of a new Mazda3 MPS currently under development. It is said the new MPS will produce the same power  (190kW), but techno-boffins have been working to improve on getting all that power through the front wheels with more success. A revised torque management system is being tweaked, which Mazda hopes will improve real-world driveablity throughout the rev range.

Other engine news sees the 2.2 litre diesel from the Mazda6, complete with a Euro5 emissions seal of approval, to be used in the Mazda3. Presumably this option will make it down under, but don’t lock it in just yet.

Stay tuned for the world premiere on 3 December with more images, no doubt.

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Mazda

Next generation Mazda3 sedan

2009 Mazda3 sedan

The LA Auto Show may not have officially started just yet, but manufacturer’s are quick to get their information to market. Of particular note to Australian readers is the reveal of the new Mazda3. Over 28,000 of Mazda’s well regarded mid-size 3 models have been sold in Australia so far this year, making the car a major player in its segment. Mazda will be hoping the new model will find as much favour with local buyers.

All the expected improvements have been made over the previous generation, with a higher level of standard equipment, improved performance and considered environmental attributes. There’s quite a lengthy press release from Mazda’s United States marketing department below, and there’s a couple of nifty points to highlight.

The new exterior design has a slippery drag coefficient of 0.29 Cd, which Mazda claims is one of the lowest in class. A nice fundamental benefit to fuel economy, if nothing else. The new Mazda family face, as adopted to the Mazda3, has a bit of a quirky look, but overall the new look is a definite evolutionary step. For the most part, the car looks quite smart. However, the extroverted front guard does look a little out of place, especially when viewing the awkward juxtaposition of creases where the front quarter-panel meets the front doors.

Bringing a touch of Japanese gadgetry to the interior is the neat interactive interior ambient lighting. From the media release, “Upon entry, illumination rises in intensity in a programmed manner. Occupants are welcomed by foot-well and door-handle lamps. Next, instrument cluster, centre stack, audio and climate controls brighten. When a driver or front seat occupant touches an audio or A/C switch, a change in illumination acknowledges that the command has been received.” A bit of a gimmick, but also pretty cool.

More pics and words after the jump.

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News

2008 Goodwood Festival of Speed

2008 Goodwood Fesitval of Speed - Mazda FuraiLast weekend the Duke of Richmond opened up his estate once again for the 18th consecutive Goodwood Festival of Speed. The lads from CarAdvice.com.au were there, check out their report, with heaps of great up close pictures, HERE.

For more info on the Goodwood FoS check out the Wikipedia page. This preview article from the Telegraph also paints a picture of just how big this event is. Enjoy!