Automobiles Review

Tag: Mazda MX-5

  • Mazda Shows the Back of MX-5 Miata Concept Ahead of Chicago Debut

    The first-generation MX-5 Miata was introduced in 1989 during the auto saloon in Chicago. Mazda presented there the qualities of the car, which are still incorporated in the current model: it is a fun-to-drive vehicle, which is lightweight, has an open-roof, and it is sports-oriented. Since then more than 949,000 MX-5s were sold and hundreds of awards won.

    This year at the same show, Mazda will reveal a 2016 MX-5 accessories design concept. It will give some hints of what the future Miata would look like. In addition, the car will be also equipped with equipment which is intended to appeal to those looking to personalize their vehicle.

    For the first time the company will also show three MX-5 merchandise design concepts from Mazda’s upcoming Heritage Collection. These are apparel collections inspired by key themes of the past, present and future of the brand.

    We will definitely have to wait until Friday for the full reveal of the car. However, we can get some impression from the teaser image that Mazda gas released. The photo displays the back of the 2016 MX-5 Miata which features exclusive accessories.

    At the rear we see new lip spoiler and diffuser-style lower valance. We sincerely hope that it is made of carbon fiber! There is also the typical for the vehicle design, so there is nothing surprisingly different about it.

    Except for the debuts, Mazda will be also hosting a number of activities throughout the show. For instance, the visitors of the show will be treated to live ESPN Radio broadcasts with “Carmen and Jurko” and “Waddle and Silvy”.

    There will be also free autograph signings with NHL legend Jeremy Roenick, former Chicago Bulls star Stacey King and former “Rookie of the Year” and All-Star Chicago Cubs pitcher Kerry Wood. For those interested in test drives: the latest Mazda vehicles will be held outside of the convention center ready for a ride.

    Source: Mazda 

  • Mazda Teams up with Xbox for Forza Horizon 2 Livery Design Contest

    2016-Mazda-Mx-6-XBOX-THUMBMazda is teaming up with Xbox for the release of the 2016 MX-5. For this purpose it is launching livery design contest which is now available at Forza Horizon 2 game. The players are allowed to virtually tour the new Miata and then enter the competition. The best design will be featured in the aforementioned game and then gifted to all players. It is for the second consecutive year that Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) is teaming up with Xbox.

    This time the reason is to promote the launch of the 2016 Mazda MX-5 and give Forza Horizon 2 players the chance to enter the livery design contest. Both companies have prepared an interactive experience with the car information on the design contest. This will be available through the Mazda branded hub on Xbox 360 and Xbox One.

    The contest will last until 4th January, 2015. Forza Horizon 2 players will get the chance to design the livery for the 1994 Mazda MX-5 that is featured in the game. There will be two finalists, who will win a trip in March to South by Southwest 2015 for the final design showdown. The better design will walk away with a new 55-inch curved TV, audio music system, Xbox One Kinect console and one MadCatz Racing Wheel.

    What is more, the winning design will be made available for free in the Forza Horizon 2 for all Xbox One and Xbox 360 users.

    2016 Mazda MX-5 made an official world premiere this year. The latest edition of the best-selling two-seater roadster is the sportiest one ever created by the company. It fully embodies Mazda’s KODO – Soul of Motion design theme.  Under the bonnet the car has a SKYACTIV-G petrol engine that drives the rear wheels.

    2016 Mazda MX-5
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    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5

    Source: Mazda

  • Mazda Motorsports Releases Global MX-5 Cup Racecar

    Mazda-Global-MX-5-Cup-Racecar-THUMBMazda MX-5 Miata is one of the best selling roadsters around the globe. In addition, this is the most road-raced car in the world and its fourth generation has been just released. At the SEMA show the Japanese company announced that the new 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be raced in a new Global Cup series in North America, Europe and Asia. The racings will culminate at the end of 2016 with a Global Shootout at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey in California.

    Unfortunately Mazda did released only pictures of the Mazda Global MX-5 Cup racecar. There are no final specifications released, equipment details or technical partners for the car. The only thing confirmed by Mazda is that the cup racecar will be equipped with a 2.0 liter SKYACTIV-G four cylinder engine.

    In fact, the car is currently in development. From this winter Mazda Motorsports will select the optimum tires, suspension and powertrain and safety modifications.  The final specifications will be announced in 2015. Then will be also the time when Mazda will be ready to accept orders.

    Full details of the Global MX-5 Cup, including which countries will be involved and when the races will take place, is soon to be announced. 2016 Mazda MX-5 was revealed officially in the beginning of September with events held simultaneously in Japan, USA and Spain. The car will enter the global markets in 2015.

    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar
    Mazda Global MX-5 Cup Racecar

    Source: Mazda

     

  • 2016 Mazda MX-5 to be Presented at the Paris Motor Show

    2016-Mazda-MX-5-THUMB2016 Mazda MX-5 MKIV roadster is to be the star of Mazda’s Paris Motor Show exhibit, where it will make its official European premiere. The event will happen between 4th and 19th of October, where Mazda will also display the Mazda3, Mazda6 and the Mazda CX-5 models. The new MX-5 was revealed just a few days ago and showed its stunning cutting-edge technology and timeless charm. The MKIV Mazda MX-5 is expected to give another boost to the successful Japanese brand.

    The latest edition of the best-selling two-seater roadster is the sportiest one ever created by the company. It fully embodies the striking rendition of Mazda’s KODO – Soul of Motion design theme, thus exuding exuberance and expressing car’s agility.

    The new model also expresses the exciting experience that awaits every driver behind the wheel. In keeping with the tradition, the cabin is snug yet comfortable, and it also includes modern convenient technologies. Just to name two:  MZD Connect smartphone connectivity system and i-ACTIVSENSE. What is more, the 2016 MX-5 also sports Mazda’s innovative line-up of active safety technology.

    Under the bonnet of this jewel lies high-compression SKYACTIV-G petrol engine that drives the rear wheels. In addition, the specially-developed SKYACTIV-Chassis delivers the most advanced Jinba Ittai driver-and-car-as-one experience yet.

    Of course, the latest MX-5 retains the same charm, reliability, affordability and lightweight fun of the original model, which was launched exactly 25 years ago. This is the most compact model of any previous generations and it is more than 100 kilograms lighter than its predecessor. More details on the 2016 Mazda MX-5 are expected to be announced during its official premiere.

    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
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    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5

    Source: Mazda 

  • 2016 Mazda MX-5 is Finally Here!

    2016-Mazda-MX-5-THUMB2016 Mazda MX-5 has finally been unveiled. Mazda Motor Corporation celebrated the reveal of its fourth generation MX-5together with fans at events held simultaneously in Japan, USA and Spain. The all-new MX-5, which in Japan is popular as a roadster, adopts both SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and Mazda’s KODO—Soul of Motion design language. The car will enter the global markets in 2015 and Mazda is promising to reveal more details near launch.

    No doubt that the MX-5 is an iconic model. It embodies Mazda’s vehicle-engineering philosophy which lies in the pursuit of driving pleasure. The design and engineering of the fourth-gen model stood under the motto “Innovate in order to preserve”. In fact, the development team searched for innovations that go beyond simple evolution.

    Precisely, in this new Mazda model, the engineers have strictly focused on the environmental and safety sides of the car. However, the 2016 MX-5 still stays true to the model’s original aim of offering the pure driving fun of a lightweight sports car. This was achieved via the adoption of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and the refinement of its visual appearance.

    Another interesting fact about the new MX-5 is that it is the most compact one of any previous generations and it is more than 100 kilograms lighter than its predecessor. Unfortunately, Mazda didn’t reveal much more about this beauty but we are eagerly awaiting more details.

    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
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    2016 Mazda MX-5
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    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5
    2016 Mazda MX-5

    Source: Mazda

  • BBR upgrades the 2005-2014 Mazda MX-5 with “Super 200” package

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    The famous performance tuner BBR has unveiled the so-called “Super 200” upgrade package for owners of 2005-2014 Mazda MX-5 vehicles. In particular the upgrade package targets people who own the 2.0-liter Mazda MX-5 Mk3 / 3.5 / 3.75 (NC) models. The main perk of the package is engine power that was previously considered impossible.

    “BBR knows that the Mazda MX-5 owners’ community is a broad church and not everyone wanted the supercar style performance of our highly successful turbocharged upgrades,” says BBR-GTI’s Neil McKay. “Therefore we decided to develop a package that built upon our entry level Super 175 and 180 upgrades by incorporating exclusive BBR hardware and further electronic development to deliver the first genuine 200 bhp normally aspirated conversion to an eager Mazda performance aftermarket, whilst being designed for everyday use and offering exceptional value for money,” he continues.

    The “Super 200” package includes the following components: high flow BBR panel air filter, BBR stainless steel 4-into-1 exhaust manifold, BBR high performance intake and exhaust camshafts, BBR 3.5-inch diameter branded tailpipes with stainless steel clamps, BBR ECU remap and BBR badges for front wings and bootlid. Thanks to these hardware improvements the BBR Super 200 upgrade boosts peak power to 201 bhp (204 horsepower) at 7450 rpm, which is a remarkable tested gain of 43 bhp (44 horsepower).

    Having more peak power is nice but BBR has put extra effort into delivering all this power to the right spots. Thanks to a carefully designed and tested pair of exclusive camshaft profiles with unique lift and timing specifications, the Super 200 package delivers strong gains from just 3000 rpm upwards with standard power output exceeded at every point in the rev range. These efforts have results that can be measured in numbers. Thus the MX-5 2.0-liter 16-valve engine with the upgrade package produces 166 lb.-ft. of torque (225 Nm), which is 19 lb.-ft. (26 Nm) more than in the original, with the peak value arriving at just 4000 rpm, which is 1100 rpm lower than in the original.

    Mindful of both costs and occupant comfort for high speed, long distance driving, the standard exhaust centre section, catalytic converter and rear silencer are retained with the BBR Super 200 upgrade, but the package includes a set of 3.5-inch branded stainless steel tailpipe trims which are adjustable to accommodate different bumper options on Mk3 / 3.5 / 3.75 models. In addition, exclusive yet subtle BBR wing and bootlid badging is included in the Super 200 upgrade.

    In the UK the new upgrade package costs GBP 2,195 and this price includes drive-in, drive-out installation. A do-it-yourself version sells for GBP 1695. You can also find the Super 200 upgrade package at certain Mazda UK dealers.

    Source: Mazda

  • Mazda To Reveal Fourth Generation MX-5 In September

    Mazda-MX-5-Fourth-Gen-Teaser-TUMBMazda makes plans to unveil the fourth generation MX-5 Roadster in September. The event of the premiere will take place in Barcelona, Spain, where media and fans will celebrate the iconic roadster and its 25th anniversary. After three generations and a quarter of century, Mazda is opening a new chapter on its legendary MX-5 roadster. Precisely, the initial unveiling will take place on 3-4 September. It will happen simultaneously to similar events in Japan and the U.S.

    In addition, on 6 of September, MX-5 enthusiasts will meet in Barcelona to view the next gen iconic sports car. Both occasions will happen under the banner: “Long live the Roadster”, and they both to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the MX-5.

    The first MX-5 appeared in 1989. Since then almost 945,000 units have been produced. Mazda says that the secret behind this success is the winning principle of pure driving fun based on a lightweight design and perfect front-rear weight balance. Another interesting fact is that the MX-5 holds the Guinness World Record as the bestselling two-seater sports car of all time.

    To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the car, Mazda has produced an anniversary edition model, which debuted at Goodwood Festival of Speed. It is driven by a 2.0-litre, 160 hp (118 kW) powerplant, which is coupled with a six-speed manual transmission. The car can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in under 8 seconds and has a top speed of 136 mph. It also features special exterior and interior equipment in order to show its limited edition origin.

    Source: Mazda

  • Mazda MX-5 To Compete In 24 Hours Nurburgring

    Mazda-MX-5-Racing-Car-THUMBMazda MX-5 is going to compete in the famous 24 Hours Nürburgring Endurance Race, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the model. For the event, JOTA Sport was commissioned to prepare the vehicle and manage the race team. The team will comprise of four drivers who have history of success in versatile races. Nürburgring will take place in Germany on 21st and 22d of June.

    To go further into details, the team of four drivers includes Stefan Johansson, Wolfgang Kaufmann, Owen Mildenhall and Teruaki Kato. Johansson is familiar with endurance racing inside out and has an outstanding track record as a driver for Mazdaspeed at 24 Hours of Le Mans.

    Kaufmann has known Nürburgring circuit very well. Owen Mildenhall is a journalist, but he has raced the MX-5 in a variety of competitions. And at last, Teruaki Kato is famous for winning the Japan’s Roadster Party Race.

    Since the introduction of Mazda MX-5 in 1989, over 940,000 units have been produced. For this reason, the model is recognized by Guinness World Records as world’s best-selling two-seater open-top sports car.

    Outline

    Race name: ADAC Zurich 24-Hour Race (24 Hours Nürburgring Endurance Race)
    Team name: Mazda Motor Sports Team JOTA
    Vehicle: Mazda MX-5
    (V3 Category: NC soft-top based, 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated, unmodified class)
    Drivers: Stefan Johansson (Sweden)
    Wolfgang Kaufmann (Germany)
    Owen Mildenhall (UK)
    Teruaki Kato (Japan)

    Source: Mazda

  • 2015 Mazda MX-5 [render]

    Mazda MX-5 is the best-selling roadster in the world and it is time to get an all-new look. Still, the manufacturer didn’t reveal any information or pictures of the upcoming 2015 Mazda MX-5. Until then, here is a nice render picture of the next generation MX-5 created by Theophilus Chin.

    2015 Mazda MX-5 will be smaller and lighter compared to the outgoing model. The weight reduction will be more than 100kg (220 lbs), which means a lot better acceleration, improved fuel economy and superb handling. The new model will also adopt a lower center of gravity making the roadster a lot safer and harder to roll-over.

    The new MX-5 will get Mazda’s Kodo design language, so it will offer a very attractive styling as seen in recent products such as the 6 and 3, as well as the Hazumi Concept.

    Other highlights include more powerful engines in the range and a more rigid body that will also make it safer in case of a collision. Sales of the all-new Mazda MX-5 are expected sometime in the beginning of the next year and the model will probably make official debut in the end of 2014.

    Stay tuned!

  • Mazda Introduces MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition

    Mazda-MX-5-Miata-25th-Anniversary-Edition-THUMBMazda MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition is making a world premiere today at the New York International Auto Show. The Miata in Japanese stands for roadster; and this special edition sportscar was created to celebrate 25 years since the introduction of Mazda’s iconic roadster – MX-5 at the Chicago Auto Show in the USA. The car also incorporates the newly-developed SKYACTIV-chassis that will form the basis of the next generation MX-5. Since 1989 more than 940,000 units have been produced and the successful model continues to hold the Guinness World Record for the best-selling two-seater sportscar.

    Mazda MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition is based on the 2.0-litre 160 hp Roadster Coupe. It has a power retractable hard top and its engine is mated to a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. The car is exclusively offered in Soul Red Metallic color.

    The Brilliant Black-painted roof, A-pillars, and door mirror housings reflect the great amount of attention to the detail that has been paid to this car. In addition, the off-white leather seat upholstery and door trim, hand-finished dashboard decorative panel in Piano Black and the fitting of Bilstein dampers plus 17-inch Dark Gunmetal alloy wheels contribute to the exclusive appearance of the model.

    In the new SKYACTIV-chassis the engine will be located closer to the vehicle’s centre and the vehicle’s centre of gravity will be lower than in any previous Mazda MX-5. The upcoming model has been engineered and developed to achieve excellent body rigidity. In addition, it also reduces the overall weight by more than 100 kg.

    Mazda MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition

    Source: Mazda

  • Mazda To Officially Reveal HAZUMI Model At Geneva Motor Show

    Mazda-HAZUMI-THUMBMazda HAZUMI is the next-generation subcompact concept, which will be revealed by the brand at the 84th Geneva International Motor Show. In addition, Mazda will also show for the first time at the event its new clean diesel engine – the SKYACTIV-D 1.5, as well as the MX-5 model.

    There hasn’t been said much for the HAZUMI, except for that this name literally means “bound” or “spring up” in Japanese. The company also said that it will be a small car “that appears to be bursting with energy”, if we follow the name-concept. Of course, the car will be built with no compromises in terms of engineering and will probably convey the ideal form for the company’s next-generation subcompact vehicle.

    In Geneva Mazda will also debut the newly developed small-displacement SKYACTIV-D 1.5 clean diesel engine. On the other hand, the next generation MX-5 will celebrate 25th anniversary of the iconic bestselling roadster.

    The visitors of the show will also have the chance to see the following vehicles: Mazda3, Mazda6, Mazda CX-5, Mazda5, Mazda2, Mazda MX-5, as well as the following technologies: SKYACTIV-G 2.0 petrol engine, SKYACTIV-D 2.2 clean diesel. Less than two weeks to go to get the full idea of what the HAZUMI will be about!

    Source: Mazda

  • BBR Shows Most Powerful Mazda MX-5 GT270

    BBR-Mazda-MX-5-GT270-THUMBBrodie Brittain Racing or simply BBR proudly presents its latest and most potent creation – Mazda MX-5 GT270. The car is based on the 2013 MK3.5 (NC) 2.0-litre Sport Tech Roadster Coupe, and now features a breathtaking turbocharged engine.

    Other enhancements here include advanced electronic upgrades and chassis improvements, and they contribute towards Mazda’s dynamics. The car’s production is limited up 100 numbered cars.

    To main focus in this tuning here is the BBR GT270 2.0-litre engine, which has been subject to extensive development by BBR’s engineers. The unit produces 268 hp (197 kW) at 7350rpm, and has a peak torque figure of 308 Nm (227lb.ft) at 5100rpm.

    The top speed here is 150 mph, while the acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h is estimated at 4.9 seconds. In addition, the unit sports quick spooling Garrett GT25 ball bearing turbo which provides superior torque, power and throttle response.

    Another interesting fact about this car is that the tuners at BBR have worked together with the specialists at EcuTek in order to debut unique suite of ‘Starchip’ calibration software, which offers a greater range of functionality and control for the GT270 owner.

    Of course they serve in terms of enhancing performance and functions like launch control, auto throttle blipper on the downshift and a full throttle gearshift. In detail, the EcuTek ProEcu system on the BBR GT270 offers four driving modes selectable via the MX-5‘s cruise control stalk, which activate the following functions:

    • BBR GT270 ECU Mode One – 98 Octane fuel maps for every day use (designed for use where fast road driving is the priority for the user.)
    • BBR GT270 ECU Mode Two – 98 Octane. Features include launch control set at 3800rpm, full throttle/no lift gearshift above 40% throttle, auto downshift throttle blip above 3500rpm (optimised for pure no-compromise circuit driving.)
    • BBR GT270 ECU Mode Three – 95 Octane cruise map (economy mode for longer motorway journeys.)
    • BBR GT270 ECU Mode Four – Valet mode, the engine is limited to 3500rpm in all gears (security mode to prevent unwanted third party driver abuse)

    The exterior of the vehicle has a discreet ‘BBR turbo’ badging and BBR branded exhaust tailpipe trims. BBR Mazda MX-5 270 also offers other available options such as BBR Performance Suspension Upgrade, BBR Performance Braking Upgrade that includes EBC ‘Yellow Stuff’ pads, stainless steel brake lines and Castrol SRF brake fluid and BBR Performance Exhaust System Upgrades. The latter is suitable for those searching for a sportier exhaust note

    BBR Mazda MX-5 GT270 Technical Specifications:

    • Bespoke BBR Garrett GT series ball bearing turbocharger (360BHP+ capability) – optional polished compressor cover available
    • BBR cast iron GT25 stainless steel turbo manifold (tubular option available)
    • BBR stainless steel downpipe (optional BBR stainless steel performance exhaust available)
    • BBR Hi-flow lightweight front mounted aluminium intercooler with factory look black intake pipes (polished and custom colour options available)
    • BBR high flow custom silicone turbo pipes in factory look black finish with stainless steel hose clamps (custom colour options available)
    • BBR lightweight aluminium battery tray in factory black finish (custom colour options available)
    • BBR Recirculating piston type dump valve in factory black finish
    • BBR / Bosch MAP sensor
    • BBR / Bosch high flow fuel injectors
    • BBR turbocharger heat shield (carbon fibre option available)
    • BBR high flow airbox (carbon fibre option available)
    • BBR stainless steel / Teflon oil and water lines
    • BBR Starchip EcuTek Pro ECU calibration software with driver switchable modes
    • BBR branded exhaust tailpipe trims
    • BBR / Exedy uprated clutch
    • BBR build number plaque
    BBR Mazda MX-5 GT270
    BBR Mazda MX-5 GT270
    BBR Mazda MX-5 GT270
    BBR Mazda MX-5 GT270

    Source: BBR