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  • U.S.-spec Mazdaspeed3 officially unveiled at New York Auto Show

    U.S.-spec Mazdaspeed3 officially unveiled at New York Auto Show April 9th, 2009 By Viknesh Vijayenthiran Viknesh Vijayenthiran, Author, April 9th, 2009 Viknesh Vijayenthiran 5 Comments

    U.S.-spec Mazdaspeed3 officially unveiled at New York Auto Show Mazda used last year’s Los Angeles Auto Show to debut the new 2010 Mazda3 Sedan, and then followed it with the reveal of the Hatchback model at the Bologna Motor Show just one month later. There is still one more variant of the Mazda3 in the works and it is set to make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show this week.

    The car is the sporty Mazdaspeed (MPS) model and it has now been revealed ahead of its official world debut. We can finally confirm that it will come with the same MZR 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine as the current model, with output pegged at 260hp (191kW) and 280lb-ft (380Nm) of torque. This is matched... Mazda used last year’s Los Angeles Auto Show to debut the new 2010 Mazda3 Sedan, and then followed it with the reveal of the Hatchback model at the Bologna Motor Show just one month later. There is still one more variant of the Mazda3 in the works and it is set to make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show this week. The car is the sporty Mazdaspeed (MPS) model and it has now been revealed ahead of its official world debut. We can finally confirm that it will come with the same MZR 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine as the current model, with output pegged at 260hp (191kW) and 280lb-ft (380Nm) of torque. This is matched to a stiffer body, a suspension system with greater damping strength, Mazda's electro-hydraulic power assisted steering (EHPAS), as well as specially tuned brakes. Acceleration from 0-100km/h takes 6.1 seconds and velocity tops out at 250km/h. A six-speed manual and FWD is fitted as standard. Fuel-consumption, meanwhile, comes in at 24mpg (9.7L/100km). The gear ratios in the compact, three-shaft gearbox have also been revised, with 2nd through 5th gear all getting slightly taller to make better use of the engine's torque. The new gear spacing and refined engine calibration are focused on providing more linear, seamless power delivery. The advanced torque management system, which minimizes torque steer by adjusting torque output based on gear position and steering angle, has also been recalibrated. The new gear ratios allow more of the engine's torque to be utilized in the lower gears while still keeping torque steer at a manageable level. Differentiating the Mazdaspeed from the regular Mazda3 lineup is a large hood scoop for the turbo, oversized air-intakes in the front bumper, a rear diffuser, large-diameter twin-exhaust pipes, 18in aluminum alloy wheels, and a chunky rear wing. Inside, there’s a driver-oriented dash, an LED highlighted boost gauge, bucket front seats, and exclusive black trim. The new Mazda3 Mazdaspeed will go on sale in Europe in the second quarter of the year and should reach the U.S. before the end of the year. The Japanese carmaker will also use this week’s Geneva event to unveil a Mazda3 with i-stop technology – a fuel-saving engine stop-start feature.2010 Mazda3 Sedan2010 Mazda3 Hatchback2010 Mazda3 Mazdaspeed (MPS)2010 Mazda3 MPS Read More

  • Mazda announces pricing for 2010 Mazda3

    Mazda announces pricing for 2010 Mazda3 February 17th, 2009 ByRalph Hanson Ralph Hanson, Author, February 17th, 2009 Ralph Hanson 5 Comments

    Mazda announces pricing for 2010 Mazda3 Mazda used last year’s Los Angeles Auto Show to debut the new 2010 Mazda3 Sedan, and then followed it with the reveal of the Hatchback model at the Bologna Motor Show just one month later. The carmaker’s North American chief Jim O'Sullivan revealed in January that the car’s U.S. launch is “on track” for March this year, and today the car was priced to start at $15,045, a rise of $355 over the outgoing car.

    Mazda plans to launch both the Sedan and Hatchback models simultaneously but isn’t predicting sales to top last year’s levels, which peaked at 100,000 units. Canada and Mexico will see the cars... Mazda used last year’s Los Angeles Auto Show to debut the new 2010 Mazda3 Sedan, and then followed it with the reveal of the Hatchback model at the Bologna Motor Show just one month later. The carmaker’s North American chief Jim O'Sullivan revealed in January that the car’s U.S. launch is “on track” for March this year, and today the car was priced to start at $15,045, a rise of $355 over the outgoing car. Mazda plans to launch both the Sedan and Hatchback models simultaneously but isn’t predicting sales to top last year’s levels, which peaked at 100,000 units. Canada and Mexico will see the cars arrive in dealerships later this month. The most popular spec car, the 2.0L Mazda3 i Touring with the automatic transmission, starts at $18,350. Stepping up to the sport model costs $19,540 for the four-door, or $20,030 for the hatch. A technology package is also available, which includes advanced keyless entry, push-button start, a compact full-color navigation system, satellite radio with six months of free service and a perimeter alarm for $1,195. There is one more variant of the new Mazda3 that is yet to be fully revealed. The car is the high-performance Mazdaspeed (MPS) model, which is expected to make its world debut at March’s Geneva Motor Show. As for the standard Sedan and Hatchback models, both cars will come with two different engine options: a 148hp (110kW) 2.0L four-cylinder with 135lb-ft (183Nm) of torque and a 167hp (124kW) 2.5L unit with 168lb-ft (227Nm) of torque. For European markets, a newly developed 2.2L turbodiesel engine will also be available. This engine, which was just launched in the Mazda6 overseas, will output 182hp (136kW) and 295lb-ft (400Nm) of torque while delivering fuel economy figures of around 42mpg (5.6L/100km).2010 Mazda3 Sedan2010 Mazda3 Hatchback Read More

  • 2010 Mazda3 Hatchback makes its debut at Bologna Motor Show

    2010 Mazda3 Hatchback makes its debut at Bologna Motor Show December 3rd, 2008 By Viknesh Vijayenthiran Viknesh Vijayenthiran, Author, December 3rd, 2008 Viknesh Vijayenthiran 6 Comments

    2010 Mazda3 Hatchback makes its debut at Bologna Motor Show Mazda has held the world premiere of the new Mazda3 five-door Hatchback at the Bologna Motor Show in Italy today, ahead of its sales launch planned for early next year. The second-generation Mazda3 Hatchback follows on the heels of the four-door sedan, which was revealed recently at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

    The new Hatchback will feature the same engines as those planned for the Sedan variant. This means it will be launched with two new engines, a 148hp (110kW) 2.0L four-cylinder with 135lb-ft (183Nm) of torque and a 167hp (124kW) 2.5L unit with 168lb-ft (227Nm) of torque. Both engines employ advanced electronic throttle actuation.

    For... Mazda has held the world premiere of the new Mazda3 five-door Hatchback at the Bologna Motor Show in Italy today, ahead of its sales launch planned for early next year. The second-generation Mazda3 Hatchback follows on the heels of the four-door sedan, which was revealed recently at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The new Hatchback will feature the same engines as those planned for the Sedan variant. This means it will be launched with two new engines, a 148hp (110kW) 2.0L four-cylinder with 135lb-ft (183Nm) of torque and a 167hp (124kW) 2.5L unit with 168lb-ft (227Nm) of torque. Both engines employ advanced electronic throttle actuation. For European markets a newly developed 2.2L turbodiesel engine will also be available. The engine, which was just launched in the Mazda6, will output 182hp (136kW) and 295lb-ft (400Nm) of torque while delivering fuel economy figures of around 42mpg (5.6L/100km) - making it the most efficient engine in the lineup. A slick-shifting five-speed and six-speed manual transmission as well as a five-speed electronically controlled Sport-AT automatic transmission are also be available depending on the model. The most frugal of the petrol units is the 2.0L unit equipped with a manual transmission, and it is rated at 25mpg (9.4L/100km) in the city and 33mpg (7.1L/100km) on the highway for the heavier Sedan. Fuel economy in the Sedan with the automatic transmission comes in at 24mpg (9.8L/100km) and 33mpg (7.1L/100km) respectively. Some premium features of the car not normally found in this segment include optional self-leveling bi-xenon headlamps, a multi-function display, satnav, electronically adjustable seats with memory functions, an ambient lighting system, dual-zone air conditioning, a 10-speaker Bose stereo, Bluetooth connectivity, iPod connection and Sirius satellite radio. Other options include rain-sensing wipers, heated side mirrors, leather upholstery, and heated seats. Further down the track, Mazda will introduce a high-performance Mazdaspeed (MPS) model, which you can see spy shots of by clicking here.2010 Mazda3 Sedan2010 Mazda3 MPS MazdaSpeed spy shots2010 Mazda3 Hatchback Read More

  • Spy shots: 2010 Mazda five-door hatchback

    Spy shots: 2010 Mazda five-door hatchback November 21st, 2008 ByKenneth Hall Kenneth Hall, Author, November 21st, 2008 Kenneth Hall 1 Comment

    Spy shots: 2010 Mazda five-door hatchback The 2010 Mazda3 Hatchback has been revealed. Click here for all the details and images.

    Mazda took the covers off the sedan version of the 2010 Mazda3 at this week’s Los Angeles Auto Show, and now it has released some official 'spy shots' of the upcoming five-door hatchback model. Despite being clad in some heavy camouflage gear, we can see that the general shape of the car is a little sleeker than the outgoing model and the front appears to have picked up the recent revealed sedan's slightly strange 'smiling' appearance.

    It is expected that the Mazda3 hatchback will be offered with the same engines as those planned for the Mazda3... The 2010 Mazda3 Hatchback has been revealed. Click here for all the details and images. Mazda took the covers off the sedan version of the 2010 Mazda3 at this week’s Los Angeles Auto Show, and now it has released some official 'spy shots' of the upcoming five-door hatchback model. Despite being clad in some heavy camouflage gear, we can see that the general shape of the car is a little sleeker than the outgoing model and the front appears to have picked up the recent revealed sedan's slightly strange 'smiling' appearance. It is expected that the Mazda3 hatchback will be offered with the same engines as those planned for the Mazda3 sedan. This means the hatch will likely be launched with two new engines, a 148hp (110kW) 2.0L four-cylinder with 135lb-ft (183Nm) of torque and a 167hp (124kW) 2.5L unit with 168lb-ft (227Nm) of torque. Both engines employ advanced electronic throttle actuation. A diesel version should be offered for European markets. A slick-shifting five-speed and six-speed manual transmission as well as a five-speed electronically controlled Sport-AT automatic transmission should also be available depending on the model. The most frugal is the 2.0L unit equipped with a manual transmission, and it is rated at 25mpg (9.4L/100km) in the city and 33mpg (7.1L/100km) on the highway for the heavier sedan. Fuel economy in the sedan with the automatic transmission comes in at 24mpg (9.8L/100km) and 33mpg (7.1L/100km) respectively. The Mazda3 hatchback will also be getting a performance variant, spy photos of which can be found by clicking here. The Mazda3 Mazdaspeed (MPS) is tipped to use the 300hp (224kW) turbocharged 2.5L Duratec unit destined for the upcoming Ford Focus RS. As for the regular hatch, it should be launched alongside the sedan early next year. However, it may make an appearance at next month’s Bologna Motor Show in Italy.2010 Mazda3 Sedan2010 Mazda3 MPS MazdaSpeed spy shots2010 Mazda3 hatchback spy shots Read More

  • Full details and images for 2010 Mazda3 sedan

    Full details and images for 2010 Mazda3 sedan November 19th, 2008 By Viknesh Vijayenthiran Viknesh Vijayenthiran, Author, November 19th, 2008 Viknesh Vijayenthiran 6 Comments

    Full details and images for 2010 Mazda3 sedan Mazda’s all-new 2010 Mazda3 has made its official world debut at this week’s Los Angeles Auto Show, however the car isn’t set to go on sale until next year along with the reveal of the popular hatchback variant. While several teaser shots of the new sedan have been out for more than a month, Mazda has finally released full specifications and entire gallery of new images.

    Since its launch in 2003, the current Mazda3 has sold nearly 1.8 million vehicles in over 100 countries and has won more than 90 global motoring awards to date. Not surprisingly, the Mazda3 accounts for almost one in three Mazdas sold, so the success of... Mazda’s all-new 2010 Mazda3 has made its official world debut at this week’s Los Angeles Auto Show, however the car isn’t set to go on sale until next year along with the reveal of the popular hatchback variant. While several teaser shots of the new sedan have been out for more than a month, Mazda has finally released full specifications and entire gallery of new images. Since its launch in 2003, the current Mazda3 has sold nearly 1.8 million vehicles in over 100 countries and has won more than 90 global motoring awards to date. Not surprisingly, the Mazda3 accounts for almost one in three Mazdas sold, so the success of the latest car is vital to the Japanese carmaker. Known as the Axela in home market, the new Mazda3 is the first fully redesigned version of the car in five years and features a range of new and efficient engines plus a more dynamic look that picks up the carmaker’s corporate face first seen on the 2009 Mazda6. Chief designer Kunihiko Kurisu’s mission was to remain faithful to the Mazda3’s existing visual identity while evolving its appearance with richer, bolder design strokes. Some of the key details include an aggressive front that integrates the lower air intake with a more emphatic and instantly recognizable five-point grille. The fascia lines converge on the center-point at the bottom of the grille. At the rear, the decklid’s surface has a distinctive center crease. Areas that engineers focused on while developing the car include the handling and dynamics, fuel efficiency, and vehicle weight. The new car also features a class-leading 0.29 coefficient of drag. The new Mazda3 will initially be launched with two new engines, a 148hp 2.0L four-cylinder with 135lb-ft of torque and a 167hp 2.5L unit with 168lb-ft of torque. Both engines employ advanced electronic throttle actuation. Mazda’s exclusive torque base control technology provides a highly linear acceleration response to every change of throttle pedal pressure. A slick-shifting five-speed and six-speed manual transmission as well as a five-speed electronically controlled Sport-AT automatic transmission are available depending on the model. The most frugal model is the 2.0L unit equipped with a manual transmission, and it is rated at 25mpg in the city and 33mpg on the highway. Fuel economy with the automatic transmission comes in at 24mpg and 33mpg respectively. Some premium features of the car not normally found in this segment include optional self-leveling bi-xenon headlamps, a multi-function display, satnav, electronically adjustable seats with memory functions, an ambient lighting system, dual-zone air conditioning, a 10-speaker Bose stereo, Bluetooth connectivity, iPod connection and Sirius satellite radio. Other options include rain-sensing wipers, heated side mirrors, leather upholstery, and heated seats. Further down the track, Mazda will introduce a high-performance Mazdaspeed (MPS) model, which you can see spy shots of by clicking here.2010 Mazda3 Sedan2010 Mazda3 MPS MazdaSpeed spy shots Read More

  • Mazda appoints new CEO

    Mazda appoints new CEO November 19th, 2008 ByJames Martinez James Martinez, Author, November 19th, 2008 James Martinez 9 Comments

    Mazda appoints new CEO Mazda has announced today that Takashi Yamanouchi will take over as its new president and CEO, replacing Hisakazu Imaki, who will stay on as chairman of the board. In other announcements, the former logistics and IT boss, Masaharu Yamaki, has been appointed as the new executive vice president.

    The latest management shuffle comes just two days after Mazda, along with several strategic business partners, decided to acquire a parcel of its own shares from Ford in order to enable the struggling Detroit carmaker to raise some desperately needed capital. As a result, the ratio of Ford’s ownership of Mazda stock will be reduced from 33.45 to... Mazda has announced today that Takashi Yamanouchi will take over as its new president and CEO, replacing Hisakazu Imaki, who will stay on as chairman of the board. In other announcements, the former logistics and IT boss, Masaharu Yamaki, has been appointed as the new executive vice president. The latest management shuffle comes just two days after Mazda, along with several strategic business partners, decided to acquire a parcel of its own shares from Ford in order to enable the struggling Detroit carmaker to raise some desperately needed capital. As a result, the ratio of Ford’s ownership of Mazda stock will be reduced from 33.45 to just over 13%, with the new agreement allowing the two companies to continue their strategic relationship that spans nearly 30 years. Ford’s sale of the Mazda stock will be achieved through Mazda and a group of its strategic business partners each buying a portion of the shares. The transaction, to be made in off-hours trading at Monday’s closing price of ¥184 ($1.91) per share will see Ford net almost $540 million. “The sale of Mazda shares by our partner, Ford, will not result in any change in Mazda’s strategic direction and we will continue to accelerate our product-led brand improvement and cost innovation initiatives,” said former CEO Hisakazu Imaki. “We will continue our strategic relationship through our ongoing joint ventures with Ford, as well as the sharing of platforms and powertrains.” Ford and Mazda will remain closely linked for some time to come as both carmakers share a number of components and platforms. The Mazda2 and Mazda3, for example, are based on the same platforms as Ford’s new Fiesta and Focus (European), respectively. The two carmakers also plan to continue operations of jointly owned factories in Thailand, China, and the United States. Read More

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