Mazda – Page 10 – Automobiles Review

Mazda Introduces the Virtual LM55 Vision Gran Turismo [VIDEO]

Mazda LM55 Vision Gran Turismo is a virtual sports car which was exclusive created for the videogame Gran Turismo 6 (GT6). The racing simulation game will be available on PlayStation 3. The vehicle was created as part of “Vision Gran Turismo” project for Gran Turismo 6. Precisely, Mazda collaborated with Polyphony for the creation of LM55. The design of the supercar blends agility with elegance. This is visible in the car’s dynamic silhouette. Mazda’s hallmark KODO design language is implemented onto the front face. At the same time the stance of the vehicle is reminiscent of the famed 787B that took overall victory at the 1991 24 Hours of Le Mans.

As a matter of fact, the Mazda LM55 Vision Gran Turismo came right for the holidays. Those who have already installed the Holiday Season Update in GT6 obtained the LM55. “Gran Turismo” (GT) refers to a two-door sport car also known as a Grand Touring car in the automotive world.

Even more, “Vision Gran Turismo” cars celebrate a 15th anniversary celebration which will be hosted by GT car manufacturers and users around the globe. These vehicles will appear one after another in Gran Turismo 6.

But to go even more into the details LM55 pushes the boundaries at the intersection of technology and design. This is Mazda’s vision of the future, which also includes a big dose of respect for the past.

Mazda LM55 Vision Gran Turismo barely tips the scale thanks to its lightweight components made of carbon fibre. This also features a monocoque chassis clad in striking atmospheric-white paint.

All of this is coupled with advanced drive train technology which delivers extreme power, efficiency and durability. The result is an exceptional power to weight ratio and a car which is born of the unrelenting challenger spirit.

Source: Mazda

December 29, 2014

Mazda Launches 2015 Mazda6 and 2015 Mazda CX-5

Two award-winning Mazda models, 2015 Mazda6 and 2015 Mazda CX-5, have got improved and now they come with more powertrain options, more developed technologies and systems, and, finally, a reworked interior.

On the one hand, the 2015 Mazda6 wagon powered by SKYACTIV-D 2.2 clean diesel engine can be purchased with Mazda’s new-generation all-wheel drive (AWD) system which has been previously used on the CX-5. It includes the world’s first front wheel slip warning detection system and also adopts a specially developed low -viscosity oil, having the goal to increase fuel economy.

On the other hand the 2015 CX-5 is equipped with SKYACTIV-G 2.5 petrol engine along with i- ELOOP, Mazda’s brake energy regeneration system, and Drive Selection. The latter offers a choice of different drive modes for more responsiveness when required.

These models are pioneers as they feature the company’s innovative Adaptive LED Headlights (ALH), which represent a high-beam system with four separately controllable blocks of LEDs for each headlamp. ALH includes High Beam Control (HBC) and Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS). Moreover, it provides with widened low beam coverage and automatic levelling. In order to avoid dazzling other drivers, the system disables the high-beam block shining only in the direction of the opposite vehicle and allows the remaining LEDs to be working for better night-time visibility.

Other features that are available for the new Mazda models are:

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) which adds Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) that sends alerts to the driver when there is an approaching vehicles while reversing.
Lane-keep Assist System (LAS) that provides steering torque assistance while contributing to the Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS).
Driver Attention Alerts (DAA) which scans the driver’s condition and offers a break if it finds a change in behavior.
Smart City Brake Support Forward/Reverse (SCBS F/R) that adds reverse gear functionality to the already existing SCBS system.
Smart Brake Support (SBS) and Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC).

The interior changes are reflected in the ultimately comfortable heads-up cabin and “the new-generation human-machine interface.”

Source: Mazda

December 16, 2014

Mazda Develops Bio-based Engineering Plastic Featuring High-Quality Finish

Mazda Motor Corporation has been developing a great variety of advanced technologies and products in the biomass field for a long time. Some of its remarkable achievements are the high-strength heat-resistant plant-derived bioplastic suitable for auto interior parts and the ground-breaking biofabric for vehicle seat upholstery made from plant-derived fiber. Now Mazda teamed up with Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation and in this collaborative work the formal has succeeded in developing an innovative bio-based engineering plastic which can be integrated into the exterior design parts of automobiles.

What is the primary function of this plastic? The new creation will help Mazda decrease its negative environmentally-dangerous impacts in different ways. Moreover, the newly-developed plastic, made from plant-derived materials, will contribute significantly to the harnessing of the use of petroleum resources. Additionally, it will be able to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

Thanks to the intense color as well as the smooth and sleek finish of the surface, the plastic will be perfect for external vehicle parts with an extreme design factor.

Prototype “Mazda Biotechmaterial” parts crafted from the bio-based engineering plastic will be exhibited by Mazda at Eco-Products 2014. The latter is among the largest exhibitions of environmental technologies and eco-friendly services in Japan.

This new bio-based engineering plastic is going to be used for the first time for interior parts in the 2015 Mazda MX-5 which will officially launch next year. After that, it will be integrated in exterior parts in other production models as well.

Mazda is determined to keep up with the unique, innovative and useful technologies which provide not only an improved driving experience but develop a sustainable society too.

Source: Mazda

December 10, 2014

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

Mazda 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.

Source: Mazda

December 5, 2014

Mazda Motorsport Takes Part in the 25 Hours of Thunderhill Race

Last year, Mazda participated in the longest endurance race in America, the National Auto Sport Association (NASA)’s 25 Hours of Thunderhill Presented by Hawk Performance. Now, it is going to test its endurance and level of performance again. There will be three Mazda6s and 14 more Mazda models lining up along with 56 other cars which will be competing in six different classes.

The drivers who will be presenting the Dealers in cars 55 and 56 are Richard Fisher (The Autobarn Mazda, Evanston, IL), Joel Weinberger (Continental Motors, Naperville, IL), Taz Harvey (Dublin Mazda, Tracy Mazda, Dublin/Tracy, CA), Chris Wilson (CJ Wilson Mazda, Countryside, IL), Camden Jones (Velocity Mazda, Tyler, Tex.), Ben Robertaccio (Morrie’s Mazda, Minneapolis, Minn), Jason Meise (North Park Mazda, San Antonio, Tex) and Daniel Tremblay (representing SpeedSource, the official professional racing partner of Mazda Motorsports, Sunrise, Fla.).

The Factory team will be in car 70, represented by Randy Miller (Mazda R&D), Ken Saward (Mazda Design), Mike Allen (Mazda Motorsports) and Jeremy Barnes (Mazda Public Relations and Brand Experience).

In mechanical terms, the cars remain with almost all of their stock features, with just some changes on the inside. The interiors are removed so that they can accommodate an Anthony Woodford Racing roll-cage, a Sparco Pro-ADV racing seat, Safecraft racing seatbelts and plumbed-in fire systems as well as AIM MXL Pista dashes and data acquisition. Underneath the skin there is an upgraded SKYACTIV-D diesel engine. Thanks to the cold-air intake, larger intercooler, aluminum radiator and custom tune, the Mazda6s will be able to offer some solid performance and a remarkable fuel economy, as they compete for the E1-class stage.

Source: Mazda

December 4, 2014

2015 Mazda6 is Stronger with more Features and Refreshed Styling

2015 Mazda6 Saloon and Tourer line-up gets improved with wide range of standard and available features across the entire model range. The design of the exterior as well as the interior of the car was improved. Not to mention the functionality, ride comfort and quietness, and the sophisticated technologies. The model range comprises of five trim levels: SE, SE Nav, SE-L, SE-L Nav and Sport Nav. In addition, Mazda is offering a choice of nine diesel and seven petrol Saloon variants, and nine diesel and three petrol Tourer versions. The engines can be with either six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

In terms of exterior design, there are eight body colours available to choose from. One of them is new and it is called Sonic Silver metallic. Standing at the top of the range, the Sport Nav trim will get re-styled front with new grille and signature wing design. It includes powerful LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights, LED foglamps as well as LED tail lamps. The car runs on 19-inch bright alloy wheels.

Regardless of trim, the Mazda6 gets new instrument panel with centre console design, revised suspension system, better sound insulation and more equipment ass a standard. SE and SE-L grades on the other hand benefit from electronic parking brake, coming/leaving home headlamp function, Multimedia Commander, intuitive interactivity and infotainment control, manual driver and front passenger seat height adjustment.

The occupants of Sport Nav will also enjoy the seven-inch, full-colour, centre console touch-screen with DAB radio and MZD Connect. What is more, the six-way power adjustable front passenger seat, vinyl leather knee pads, a new head-up display and an Integrated Navigation system complete the Sport Nav’s standard equipment specification.

How about the available features? The options for this trim level feature stone leather upholstery and improved Safety Pack. The latter includes Adaptive LED headlamps (ALH), Lane-keep Assist System (LAS) with Driver Alert, Advanced Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (BSM w/RCTA) and Rear Smart City Brake Support (Rr SCBS).

2015 Mazda6 Saloon and Tourer line-up is officially going on sale in the United Kingdom. It is priced from £19,795.

Source: Mazda

December 2, 2014

Mazda Motorsports Releases Global MX-5 Cup Racecar

Mazda 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.

Source: Mazda

November 6, 2014

The All-new Mazda2 Wins Good Design Gold Award 2014 in Japan

As it looks like Mazda2 is simply in the limelight! JAPAN’S reigning car of the year has received another award. This time the car scooped the Good Design Award’s Good Design Gold Award (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Minister’s Award), which was sponsored by public interest incorporated foundation, Japan Institute of Design Promotion. Good Design Award is Japan’s only comprehensive program for the evaluation and commendation of design which was established in 1957.

The all-new Mazda2, powered by SKYACTIV-D 1.5-liter engine, is created to boast confidence, inspire and, finally, deliver a whole new driving experience that will change even more positively the usually perceived notions about the carmaker. Supplied with all the new technological aspects and crafted with original ideas, the vehicle establishes another understanding about the new generation subcompact class of cars.

The applied KODO design has been used in a sense that combines sumptuous luxury with substantial high-tech safety and comfort. It simply gives a new feel of liveliness and definite presence both of which complement the compact size of the Demio. Furthermore, the interior is designed with such detail-orientated mechanism used by Mazda designers to set a new global leading standard for the segment. The choice of colors, compositions, rearrangements, forms and textures brings a sense of springing quality and excellence.

In its commendation, the Japan Institute of Design Promotion stated that; “Mazda has taken all of the KODO design from the last few years and condensed it into this compact body […] Along with the SKYACTIV clean diesel engine this model lets you enjoy the most fundamental pleasure of the automobile-moving your own hands and feet to get where you want to go-with all five senses.”

Source: Mazda

November 5, 2014

The All-new Mazda2: Technologically Advanced, Interiorly Rich

The all-new Mazda 2 is designed to bring comfort and absolute driving experience. Now SKYACTIV Technology and the “KODO – Soul of Motion” design theme have decided to work together and transform Mazda’s qualities into even more class-beating and sophisticated characteristics.

KODO is renowned for its outstanding and dynamic refinements which it works on a car. With its defining design philosophy, it brings powerful stance, determine bodylook and strong expressions that strike the heart. The characteristics of Mazda2 are now conveyed with a better attitude and presence which is stronger than ever before. Like other KODO-based Mazdas, this model also features the signature wing Mazda grill and aggressive, carnivore-like headlamps along with highlighted character lines and rear-leaning cabin. There is also a slightly longer wheelbase. The car can be purchased with 15 and 16-inch aluminum or 15-inch steel wheels. This is the first Mazda that has four-lamp LED design that accompanies the dynamic round signature of the low-slung headlamps. The latter contribute to the U-shaped signature of the horizontal combination taillights.

The SKYACTIV Technology establishes a perfect balance between economy and performance. The engines and transmissions are properly upgraded for this particular size of car. The body and chassis are given the strongest and most cohesive enhancements which provide with the best ride quality and smooth responsiveness. In terms of safety, the all-new Mazda2 is equipped with a progressive high-tech innovations like the MZD Connect in-car connectivity concept and i-ACTIVSENSE active safety systems which answer the requests of the modern-day drivers.

Superminis are known for their economy, affordability, safety, rich equipment and their easy-to-be-driven mode. All of these are presented one level up on Mazda2 thanks to KODO enhancements. The all-new Mazda2 is the fourth Mazda model which has been given a KODO – Soul of Motion design. The cabin is crafted to seem more spacious and brings a feel of being more practical and convenient too. Thanks to KODO refinements, the position of the pedals along with the seats and steering wheel adjustments there is enough space for taller drivers too. Limit is not a word that features KODO’s dictionary. Finally, the upgraded Mazda2 includes an innovative human-machine interface (HMI), Active Driving Display and seven-inch touchscreen, updated Mazda2 navigation system and more.

The Mazda2 comes with SKYACTIV-D 1.5-liter engine which has low compression, great torque and excellent fuel economy. The output is that of 105hp (77 kW) at 4,000 rpm and 220 Nm at 1,400-3,200 rpm. The fuel economy and CO2 emissions are estimated at 3.41/100km and 89g/km.
SKYACTIVE-G 1.5-liter is available for the smaller packaging of the all-new Mazda2 in three variants. It has highly competitive fuel economy and CO2 emissions of 4.7l/100km and 110g/km (with five-speed SKYACTIV-MT manual gearbox).

It is officially scheduled for launch in Europe in five-door hatchback version in early 2015.

Source: Mazda

November 3, 2014

The All-new Mazda CX-3 Crossover SUV Debuts at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show

The Japanese brand Mazda obviously loves teasing because so far there is nothing else to see about their all-new baby Mazda CX-3 apart from a sketch. Not that their followers are not thankful. They are, but they want more. And they want it now! The already revealed image is scarcely enough to satisfy their escalating expectations.

Yet, the waiting will not continue for too long, obviously, for Mazda has officially announced that the CX-3 SUV is going to premiere at the Los Angeles Motor Show which will be running from November 21 till November 30, 2014. Voila, Mazda fans! You will finally get what you have been so eagerly awaiting for.

Mazda CX-3 is becoming a part of the auto-manufacturer’s growing crossover SUV collection which is also comprised of CX-5 and three-row CX-9 models. The brand-new five-door CX-3 model will feature the same full range SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and the evolved KODO—Soul of Motion design. Additionally, the new crossover is expected to be based on the same modular underpinnings as the present Mazda2, Mazda3, Mazda6 and CX-5. Finally, the new CX-3 is believed to feature 1.5-litre four cylinder engine with an option of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

What is more, the all-new Mazda MX-5 two-seater open-top sports car (Mazda Roadster in Japan) will debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show as well. This model will be fitted by either a 1.5-liter or 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine. North American-specification models will only be powered with the SKYACTIV-G 2.0 gasoline engine.

Source: Mazda

October 28, 2014

The All-New Mazda2 Kicking off in Mexico

The Japanese automaker Mazda has officially fired up the production of the next generation Mazda2 at Mazda de Mexico Vehicle Operation (MMVO) in Salamanca, Mexico.

In the last couple of years, Mazda has introduced a range of vehicles which include advanced SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. The SKYAVTIV products enjoy the victorious taste of their global recognition, high sales and growing demand worldwide. In relation to this, SKYACTIV models are expected to account for 85 percent of global sales by fiscal year ending March 2016.

The production of the all-new Mazda2 in Mexico along with the start of operations at the engine machining plant plus the planned production capacity increase are part of the Structural Reform Plan announced in February, 2012. Initially all of these ‘procedures’ sketch some highly important stages in the fast-paced development of Mazda. What is more, Mazda de Mexico Vehicle Operation’s engine machining plant accepts and naturalizes the same progressive production technologies as Mazda’s Hiroshima Plant. In consequence, it is capable of creating an engine parts processing line that is simultaneously effective and able to manufacture a number of unique and high-quality products.

After Hofu Plant in Japan, where production began this July, and Auto Alliance (Thailand) Co., Ltd., where production started in September, MMVO is Mazda’s third international production and administrative facility which is beginning to produce the next generation Mazda2.

MMVO President Keishi Egawa has pointed out that; “With the start of production of the all-new Mazda2, operations underway at the engine machining plant, and an increase in our annual production capacity, we now have an even stronger production framework capable of supplying global markets with SKYACTIV products of the same high quality level as those made in Japan. At the same time, we are pleased to be able to make a contribution to Mexico’s further economic growth.”

The all-new 2015 Mazda2 boosts with energy, high-class performance, more than just reliable safety system, and fuel efficiency.

Source: Mazda

October 27, 2014

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

2016 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.

Source: Mazda

September 11, 2014

Tag: Mazda