Automobiles Review

Tag: Mazda MX-5

  • Mazda MX-5 Cup Practice At Road Atlanta

    mazda-mx5-motorsport-THUMBChristian Szymczak behind the wheel of Mazda MX-5 has achieved the fastest time in practice one of the preparation for Rounds 11 and 12 for the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy MX-5 Cup. At the second and third place were Sebastian Landy and Elliott Skeer, respectively.

    To be more precise, Szymczak recorded a time of 1:39.650 (91.761 mph) on the 12-turn and 2.54-mile road course. The driver aims that these numbers will be enough for the qualification for the pole, given that the track was slippery.

    In addition, he also disclosed that the focus was put not only in the preparation for a particular session, but also on the development of the car, thanks to which the MX-5 will get better and better.

    An interesting highlight about the MX-5 is that thanks to it mazda offers available at Lifestyle to its customers extra-satisfying handling and linear responsiveness. The latest facelifted version of the vehicle debuted at the end of last year. It has more aggressive road stance and is equipped with new and innovative safety technology. The car is powered by either a 126 hp (93 kW) MZR 1.8-litre matched with a five-speed manual transmission or the 160 hp (118 kW) MZR 2.0-litre with automatic or manual six-speed transmissions.

    The second quickest lap was achieved by Landy, who needed only 1:39.830 (91.595 mph) to complete it. As a matter of fact, this is driver’s personal high score, when compared to those he achieved in any other official session of 2013.

    He also confirmed the slipperiness of the track, but emphasized that the longer he ran, the more grip he had. The 30-minute session was ended by Skeer for a time of 1:39.854 (91.573 mph), which secured him the third place and who also have the desire to qualify for the pole.

    Season’s final race taking is scheduled to start today at 8:10 a.m. (EDT).

    Source: Mazda

  • 2013 Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition

    A special edition Mazda MX-5 Venture will be available until the end of March 2013 in the UK. The roadster is priced from £18,895 for the 1.8 liter version.

    The highlights include a set of new 17” Bright Finish alloy wheels, heated tan leather sports seats, tan leather door inserts and (on the soft-top model) a tan fabric roof.  A choice of four exterior colours is offered – Brilliant Black, Copper Red Mica, Meteor Grey Mica and Stormy Blue Mica – plus Venture Edition badges.

    The 1.8 liter delivers 126HP (93 kW), while the powerful 2.0 liter variant has 160HP (118 kW). Both are mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The 2.0 liter Venture Edition Roadster is priced from £22,295.

    2013 Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition
    2013 Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition
    2013 Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition
    2013 Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition
    2013 Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition
    2013 Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition

    Source: Mazda

  • Mazda MX-5 Facelift Offers Better Look and Advanced Agility

    Mazda-MX-5-THUMBThe new Mazda MX-5 has just been revealed and it is destined to offer to its drivers extra-satisfying handling and linear responsiveness. The facelifted roadster has more aggressive road stance and is equipped with new and innovative safety technology.

    The latest version of the best selling Mazda roadster is in addition more responsive in terms of acceleration and braking. The first one has been done via fine-tuning of the acceleration management program on manual shift models.

    On the other hand, by optimizing the vacuum brake booster, the specialists also enhanced brake return control. The upshot here is better handling thanks to superior front-rear load distribution. Those two factors in general result in more faithful reaction.

    Another highlight here concerns the technologies, which prevent pedestrian injuries. Here, the new active bonnet system automatically raises the hood during an impact with a pedestrian, enlarging the crumple zone to prevent or minimize the severity of injuries.

    In addition, the lower section of the front bumper was also been reinforced in order to protect people’s legs better. Adding these features however, resulted in the changes needed to be made. They concerned the front-end design of the MX-5.

    The legendary two-seater has now a deeper grille and new bumper design and expresses a lower, wider stance. At the same time the new fog lamp bezels and chin spoiler enhance the aerodynamics of the car.

    MX-5 will be available as a retractable hardtop coupe or soft-top convertible. It will be offered in a choice of eight body colours. Inside, the glossy dark grey steering wheel spokes and panel décor provide a luxury feel and comfortability.

    Last but not least, the Roadster is powere either by a 126 hp (93 kW) MZR 1.8-litre mated to a five-speed manual transmission or the 160 hp (118 kW) MZR 2.0-litre with, matched to either automatic or manual six-speed transmissions.

    Source: Mazda

  • BBR Mazda MX-5 Mk3 Supercharger Conversion

    BBR-Mazda-MX-5-THUMBBBR Cosworth Mazda MX-5 Mk3 Supercharger is equipped with additional engine power than the base model. In fact, BBR now offers two distinct stages of supercharger upgrades with power outputs up to a sensational 258 hp (190 kW).

    In this particular tuning, BBR uses extensively modified Cosworth developed hardware as the basis for the conversions. In addition the British company has revised the crucial engine management side of the MX-5. In details, they have replaced the ‘piggy back’ Interceptor unit with a Starchip developed remap.

    The latter optimizes the Mazda’s OEM ECU to the engine parameters needed for forced induction. Another benefit is that this allows further optimization with PROECU software/hardware bundle for DIY OBDII port ECU programming and data logging.

    BBR-Cosworth Stage One Mk3 / Mk 3.5 1.8 SE and 2.0i MX-5 Supercharger Conversion Specifications:

    • Cosworth designed Inlet manifold housing and hardware extensively modified by BBR for optimum efficiency and reliability.
    • Eaton 4th generation MP62 Supercharger
    • Intercooler (Air to water)
    • High flow calibrated injectors
    • High flow replacement air box
    • Competition high-grade hoses and fixings throughout
    • BBR StarChip ECU remap (DIY conversions supplied with ProECu hardware for installation)
    • BBR Cosworth identification badges
    • BBR hardware and full DIY instructions

    BBR-Cosworth Stage One 1.8 SE / 2.0i MX-5 Supercharger Conversion engine performance

    Mazda MX-5 2.0i MK3 235 BHP / 190 Ib.ft (+77 bhp / +51 lb.ft compared to standard output)
    Mazda MX-5 2.0i MK3.5 241*BHP / 190 Ib.ft (+83 bhp / +51 lb.ft compared to standard output)
    Mazda MX-5 1.8SE MK3 / MK3.5 217 BHP / 176 Ib.ft  (+93 bhp) / +53 lb.ft compared to standard output)

    Basically, the huge hike in mid-range torque, instant response from the supercharger and progressive power delivery mean that a BBR-Cosworth supercharged MX-5 1.8SE or 2.0i offers matchless in-gear acceleration and drivability.

    But this is not all of the upgrade that BBR offer. We all know that performance enthusiasts always seek the ultimate upgrade, there is a new BBR-Cosworth Stage Two MX-5 Supercharger conversion.

    The stage two offers unmatched peak figures of up to 258 hp (190 kW) and 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) of torque, even sharper throttle response and a subtle yet, sporting soundtrack. This conversion is of course perfect for fast road or track day use. It adds on the ‘Stage One’ upgrades proven BBR components which enhance exhaust and intake flow to maximize performance.

    BBR-Cosworth Stage Two Mk3 / 3.5 1.8 SE and 2.0i MX-5 Supercharger Conversion Specifications:

    • BBR stainless steel 4 into 1 exhaust manifold
    • BBR 2.5 “stainless steel exhaust centre section with metallic sports cat and centre silencer
    • BBR stainless steel rear silencer with adjustable 3.5”BBR branded tailpipes
    • High flow BBR performance air filter
    • BBR StarChip ECU remapping to suit Stage Two mechanical specification

    The eventual outcome is a top quality BBR branded exhaust which manages to produce a pleasant note that’s subtle, sporting and allows MX-5 owners to tackle long distance motorway driving in confidence.

    BBR-Cosworth Stage Two 1.8 SE / 2.0i MX-5 Supercharger Conversion engine performance

    Mazda MX-5 2.0i MK3 252 BHP / 208 Ib.ft (+94 bhp / +69 lb.ft compared to standard output)
    Mazda MX-5 2.0i MK3.5 258*BHP / 208 Ib.ft (+100 bhp / +69 lb.ft compared to standard output)
    Mazda MX-5 1.8SE MK3 / MK3.5 231 BHP / 190 Ib.ft (+107 bhp) / +67 lb.ft compared to standard output)

    Source: BBR

  • BBR Mazda MX-5 Super 180 Receives Engine Tuning Package

    BBR-Mazda-MX-5-Super-180-THUMBBBR Mazda MX-5 Super 180 is the latest enhancement done by the Mazda performance tuner BBR. The package named “Super 180” delivers extra response, power, driveability and excitement and generates substantial performance increase.

    In details the BBR “Super 180” upgrade consists of the following components: BBR stainless steel 4 into 1 exhaust manifold, BBR 2.5 inch stainless steel exhaust centre section with high flow metallic sports cat and centre silencer, BBR stainless steel rear silencer with adjustable 3.5 inchBBR branded tailpipes, High flow BBR performance panel air filter in standard Mazda airbox, BBR StarChip ECU remap.

    The standard 158 hp (117 kW) 2.0i Mazda MX-5 when equipped with the upgrade gains additionally 22 hp (17 kW). This means that it takes a peak power to a maximum of 180 hp (134 kW) at 6800 rpm.

    This engine conversion produces power gains throughout the rev range, without detracting from the user-friendly nature of the car. Extensive dyno testing has proven that power gains begin from just 1750 rpm and build progressively up to the 7500 rpm rev limiter.

    This package also extracts more torque from the MX-5’s 16-valve powerplant. This actually gives incredible and superior driveability and throttle response. The tuned car produces an impressive 27 Nm (20 lb-ft) more than the original, with peak torque of 159lb-ft arriving at just 4250 rpm.

    The stainless steel exhaust system in addition is developed in such way that it reduces back pressure to a minimum without the negative “droning”. Moreover, the clever design of the tailpipes allows them to accommodate different bumper options or aftermarket bodykits.

    Another optimization here is that now the car is even more efficient. Here BBR has deactivated the standard exhaust gas recycling system with the aim to reduce engine inlet temperatures, purify the intake charge and further improve fuel efficiency.

    Source: BBR

  • Mazda MX-5 GT4 Race Car Now Customer Built

    Mazda-MX-5-GT4-Race-Car-THUMBMazda MX-5 GT4 Race Car is going to be built for customers to order for the 2013 season. This in fact is the latest product of a process which began more than 20 years ago after Mazda made the decision to re-invent the lightweight sportscar.

    Today, the MX-5 is still among the best-selling two-seater sportscar. And in addition, after three generations of development, it has become more capable, more economical, better equipped and safer.

    The new 2013 Mazda MX-5 GT4 Race Car is built by Jota Sport and weighs 1000 kg. It is powered by an MZR two-litre turbo engine thank to which it is able to produce 320 hp (235 kW).

    Moreover, each customer bought the car, will benefit from technical assistance from Jota and an extensive parts supply for those unforeseen racing accidents. The MX-5 GT4 includes a fully prepared shell with FIA spec roll cage, carbon fibre doors, front splitter, rear diffuser and rear wing as standard.

    The interior of the car is includes carbon fibre dash and centre console, Pi Omega D2 display and data logger and a six speed sequential gearbox with paddle shift as standard. 2013 Mazda MX-5 GT4 Race Car has a starting price of £125000 and is now available to order for the 2013 season.

    Mazda MX-5 GT4 Race Car
    Mazda MX-5 GT4 Race Car
    Mazda MX-5 GT4 Race Car

    Source: Mazda

  • 2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster enters European market this Autumn

    2013-Mazda-MX-5-Roadster-THUMB2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster is the newly-upgraded version of one of the most famous open-top sports car, and more importantly it will go on sale in Europe this autumn. It has improved safety and driving attributes, along with exterior and interior upgrades.

    The first new thing around the upgraded MX-5 to be mentioned is the new front bumper design. It gives the Roadster more aggressive-visual appearance and additionally it contributes to optimal aerodynamic performance.

    2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster
    2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster

    Furthermore, the MX-5 is now even more responsive to driver input. Throttle movement, and the degree to which the gas pedal is pushed, are now controlled separately on all manual transmission models. The effect of this is that it increases the feeling of linear acceleration, and gives the driver more control during acceleration.

    The brake return control is enhanced as well, which is very advantageous when the driver brakes upon entering a curve. Another advantage after the upgrade is that Mazda has introduced a new “active bonnet” pedestrian protection system to the Roadster.

    2013 Mazda MX-5 will go on sale across Europe in autumn 2012.

    2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster
    2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster
    2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster

    Source: Mazda

  • Mazda MX-5 Kuro Special Edition hits the roads in July

    Mazda-MX-5-Kuro-Special-Edition-THUMBMazda MX-5 Kuro Special Edition is all about involvement in the motorsport world, which will go on sale in the beginning of the next month. The sportscar carries a Brilliant Black roof, Brilliant Black door mirrors and dark gunmetal 17-inch alloy wheels, contrast with the three exterior colours – Velocity Red Mica, Crystal White Pearlescent and Brilliant Black. In fact, the word “Kuro” stands for black in Japanese.

    This Mazda model is based on the MX-5 SE and Sport Tech models and is available in two variants: 1.8i Soft-top and a 2.0i Roadster Coupe. Some of the specification highlights here include: a diffuser-style rear sports bumper, larger diameter sports exhaust, unique race car inspired exterior graphics, Black detailing around the front grille and front fog lights, plus unique ‘Kuro Edition’ badging.

    Mazda MX-5 Kuro Special Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Kuro Special Edition

    The interior of the MX-5 Kuro includes unique Stone and Black heated leather seats, Stone leather door inserts, with contrasting red stitching, a silver interior deco panel with red accents, alloy pedals, premium floor mats with race inspired logo and climate control air-conditioning.

    In fact, the MX-5 has been voted “Best Roadster” by Auto Express magazine for six years in a row. This is because the models have all the dynamic attributes of a great sportscar: front-engined, rear-wheel drive chassis to deliver perfect balance, with razor-sharp handling and pure driving exhilaration. The Kuro model has them all, of course.

    More importantly, there is a choice between two powertrains. The first one is the 126 hp (93 kW) 1.8i engine mated to the five-speed gearbox. This one goes only with the Soft-top version. And if you like more power and prefer roadster, then the Mazda MX-5 Kuro Roadster Coupe will offer you the 160 hp (118 kW) 2.0i engine, mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

    As a true sportscar, this Mazda model accelerates from 0 to 60 mph for just 9.9sec, when in Soft-top veriosn, and in 7.9sec – when in Roadster Coupe version. The top speeds here are 121mph and 136mph respectively.

    The handling stability of the vehicle is ensured by Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Limited Slip Differential (LSD), side airbags.

    The starting price for the Mazda MX-5 1.8i Kuro Soft-top is £18 495 and for the Mazda MX-5 2.0i Kuro Roadster Coupe is £21 995.

    Mazda MX-5 Kuro Special Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Kuro Special Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Kuro Special Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Kuro Special Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Kuro Special Edition

    Mazda MX-5 ‘Kuro’ Soft-top otional equipment includes (above standard model):

    Unique 17-inch dark gunmetal alloy wheels with 205/45 R17 tyres, Brilliant Black roof and door mirrors, Diffuser-style rear sports bumper, Larger, sports-style exhaust tailpipe, Black front grille and front fog lights surrounds, Stone & Black heated leather seats and stone door trim, Leather steering wheel and handbrake, ‘Red’ colour stitching on seats and door trim, Alloy pedal set, Silver fashion bar covers, Silver decoration panel with Red accents, Climate control air-conditioning, Unique ‘Kuro’ exterior badging and race logo premium floor mats.

    Mazda MX-5 ‘Kuro’ Roadster Coupe otional equipment includes (above the Soft-top model):

    Cruise control, Side airbags, 6-speed transmission, Bilstein suspension, Integrated Bluetooth® system, Bose® 6-CD and additional speaker.

    Mazda MX-5 Kuro Performance & Economy:

    Soft-top Power
    (ps)    		 Torque
    (Nm)    		 0-62mph
    (sec)    		 Top Speed
    (mph)    		 Combined
    (mpg)
    1.8i Kuro 126 167 9.9 121 39.8
    Roadster Coupe
    2.0i Kuro 160 188 7.9 136 36.2

    Source: Mazda

  • Pricing Announced for the Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition

    Mazda-MX-5-Venture-Edition-THUMBMazda MX-5 Venture Edition – the world’s best-selling two-seater sportscar will go on sale with a starting price of £18 995. In addition to that, the other news that goes around the model is that it was named ‘Most Popular Convertible’ at the 2012 Honest John Awards.

    The list included vehicles such as Volkswagen Eos, BMW 3-Series Convertible, BMW Z4 and Fiat 500C. The Mazda model however, was unsurpassed. It was chosen as a winner, because it has handling abilities, ease of use and low running costs.

    The new special edition of the praised car Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition includes a Soft-top or can be purchase as a Roadster Coupe (a retractable hard-top). It includes upgraded luxurious specification, advanced technology, premium interior trim and exclusive exterior colours.

    Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition

    In particular, the Venture Edition comes equipped with 1.8-litre MZR engine for the Soft top (SE), and with a 2.0-litre MZR engine for the Roadster Coupe (Sport Tech).

    The sportscar of course keeps the great dynamic attributes, low running costs and in addition offer open-top thrills. Exclusive highlights from the outside include light gun metal 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights and a chrome front grille.

    Inside a leather feast unfolds itself as you enter. The steering wheel, seats and the leather lever are all wrapped in Havana Brown leather. A matching door trim on the side and piano black dashboard accents at the front appease you. Technology includes climate control air-conditioning, cruise control, Dynamic Stability Control, TCS and airbags, lots of them.

    The prices of Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition vary between £18 995 and £22 295.

    Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition

    Source: Mazda

  • Mazda MX-5 GT 2.0 litre – 315HP and 1000kg

    Mazda has unveiled their new racing car – MX-5 GT 2.0 litre, which will take part in the British GT Championship in 2012. Sponsored by SMH Fleet Solutions, Mazda Financial Services and Jota Aviation, the Mazda MX-5 GT will compete in the GT4 class against Lotus, Aston Martin, Ginetta and Nissan.

    The 2012 Mazda MX-5 GT4 weighs just 1 000kg. It is powered by a 2.0 liter four-cylinder racing engine delivering 315HP. The engine is mated to a 6-speed Hewland gearbox enabling the car to accelerate to 60mph in 3.0 seconds. The top speed is 258 km/h (160 mph). This makes the car the fastest and most powerful MX-5 in the World.

    The outstanding handling that has made the MX-5 a favourite amongst drivers looking for an outstanding drive experience has been further developed through the race programme in 2011 with the help of MIRA, the Motor Industry Research Agency.  The MX-5 GT4 demonstrates high levels of stability under all loads making the car easy and fun to drive, an important feature for the longer endurance races.

    Last season the Mazda MX-5 GT demonstrated its strengths in endurance racing, while it is not as powerful as rivals it uses less fuel and is easier on tyres.  This translates to less time in the pits and more time on the track which is a winning formula.

    The British GT Championship is nine rounds over seven weekends.  The first race is at Oulton Park in Cheshire on Easter weekend, 7 and 9 April.

    “We are looking forward to taking on the supercar brands this year and winning,” said Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director for Mazda UK.

    “Last year was a valuable development year when we established the strengths of the car and then developed the power and handling to best exploit those strengths.  We are excited and optimistic about our first year in British GT and fully expect the Mazda MX-5 to upset a few established marques.”, he finished.

    Mazda MX-5 GT 2.0-litre
    Mazda MX-5 GT 2.0-litre
    Mazda MX-5 GT 2.0 litre
    Mazda MX-5 GT 2.0 litre

    Source: Mazda

  • Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition

    Mazda-CX-5-Venture-thumbWe all know the Mazda MX-5, right? It’s that front-engined, RWD, simple, fun handling roadster that has been around for years. The latest attempt of the Mazda company to refresh it comes in the form of the MX-5 “Venture Edition” with new interior trims and exterior finishes and more technology and luxury equipment.

    The new Venture picks up where the SE and Sport Tech MX-5 end. You can either go for the 1.8 MZR Soft-top (SE) or the 2.0 MZR Roadster Coupe (Sport Tech). Exclusive highlights from the outside include light gun metal 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights and a chrome front grille. But we don’t really have to notice these things to know it is a Venture edition. There are badges for that. Three body colors will be – the popular Metropolitan Grey Mica and two exclusive Radiant Ebony Mica and Crystal White finishes.

    Mazda CX-5 Venture Edition (2012)
    Mazda CX-5 Venture Edition (2012)

    Inside a leather feast unfolds itself as you enter. The steering wheel, seats and the leather lever are all wrapped in Havana Brown leather. A matching door trim on the side and piano black dashboard accents at the front appease you. Technology includes climate control air-conditioning, cruise control, Dynamic Stability Control, TCS and airbags, lots of them. Also, for the first time ever on an MX-5, a Satellite navigation. And it is not an antique one as well. It has a 5.8-inch touch screen monitor, 4GB SD card based map (45 countries), live services, iPod and Bluetooth® connectivity.

    Most importantly it still remains a proper roadster with a perfectly balanced handling and a 1.8 MZR, 126 ps (SE) engine or a 2.0 MZR, 160 ps (Sport Tech) one. Manual transmissions come with either five or six speeds respectively. Going up to 60 mph will take you 9.9 seconds in the 1.8 soft-top, while for that same speed the time mark of the 2.0 Roadster Coupe is 7.9. Fun however, doesn’t come only in a straight line. The Mazda is fitted with a Limited Slip Differential for that extra sideways lunatism.

    Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition
    Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition

    Source: Mazda

  • 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition

    MNAO (Mazda North American Operations) will introduce the 2012 MX-5 Miata Special Edition at the upcoming 2012 Chicago Auto Show.

    The roadster will feature a black-only Power Retractable Hard Top as well as other exclusivities such as two new exterior colors, new 17” black gunmetal alloy wheels, black exterior accents, black heated leather seats and piano black interior finishes.

    Available with either the 6-speed manual transmission with short-throw shifter or 6-speed Sport automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, the Special Edition model is based off the Grand Touring model.

    Both Premium and Suspension packages will be standard on the MX-5 Special Edition and include features such as a Bluetooth® hands-free phone system, SIRIUS® Satellite Radio, Bilstein shocks and a sport-tuned suspension.

    2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition
    2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition
    2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition
    2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition

    Source: Mazda