Mazda – Page 16 – Automobiles Review

2013 Mazda CX-5 with high-tech safety features

2013 Mazda CX-5 is the all new production vehicle offered by Mazda Motor Corporation. The compact crossover SUV will arrive this spring in dealerships and moreover will be equipped with a range of breakthrough technologies. The SUC was designed to appeal to the corporate sector and some of the technologies included in it for the first time. Such are safety features as Smart City Brake Support, state-of-the-art passive safety structures, lightweight yet highly-rigid SKYACTIV-Body and various impact-absorbing structural innovations.

First, the Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) helps the driver to avoid or minimise the impact of a frontal collision when driving at low speeds, for instance when in traffic. The technology is standard across the Mazda CX-5 range. In particular it uses a laser sensor mounted at the top of the windscreen to detect a vehicle or obstacle in front. And in case the driver fails to slow their vehicle appropriately, the SCBS automatically activates the brakes and reduces the engine output at the same time. Thus, the system helps avoiding collision or mitigating the damage from rear-end collisions at low speeds.

Secondly, Mazda’s SKYACTIV technology is featured for the first time on the vehicle. In fact, it is the first sixth generation model, and promises major total cost of ownership due to major fuel savings and low emissions.

Next, Mazda has developed a straighter and more continuous frame and an extremely efficient multi-load path structure for the SKYACTIV-Body of the vehicle in the event of a crash. The structure efficiently absorbs the load at the time of a crash by dispersing it in multiple directions.

Additionally, there are other standard safety equipment highlights on the new 2013 Mazda CX-5, which include front and rear parking sensors, Dynamic Stability Control with Traction Control System, Hill Hold Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, dual front and front side airbags and front and rear curtain airbags; driver, passenger and rear-seat audible seatbelt reminder warning and a reversing camera. Furthermore, there are also some optional safety features (CX-5 Safety Pack) such as: Rear Vehicle Monitoring via a door mirror-mounted warning light and audible alert; lane departure warning via an audible warning, which uses a camera on the windscreen to monitor the position of the white lane markings at speeds of 40mph and higher, and if the system detects a risk of an unintentional lane change, it warns the driver with a sound through the speakers originating from the applicable side of the vehicl; and High Beam Control System (HBCS), which automatically switches between low and high beams to ensure good night visibility for everyone.

The starting price of 2012 Mazda CX-5 is £21 395. The customers can choose between four equipment levels – SE-L, SE-L Nav, Sport and Sport Nav with manual and automatic options – a SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre 165ps (121 kW) 2-wheel drive (2WD) petrol engine and SKYACYTIV-D 2.2-litre 150ps (110 kW) and 2.2-litre 175ps (129 kW) diesel engines with two and all-wheel drive choices.

Source: Mazda

March 20, 2012

2012 Mazda3 shows outstanding fuel-consumption figures

2012 Mazda3 has achieved amazing result on the latest EcoTest from the German Automobile Club (ADAC). What they determined is that the 2012 Mazda3 1.6-litre petrol with 77 kW/105 PS was the only car of the eight tested models which used less fuel than the official average published by the manufacturer. In addition, what amazed the professionals was the fact that instead of an average fuel-consumption of 6.4 litres (the official numbers given by Mazda), Mazda3 1.6-litre showed on the stricter EcoTest just 6.3 litres per 100/km. Moreover, all other models that were tested, including vehicles with petrol, diesel and electric powertrains, were times above their officially published average for fuel consumption. Germany’s ADAC EcoTest measures fuel consumption, CO2 and toxic emissions using new and stricter criteria. And theses criteria now include NEFC measurements, test using the world cycle or WLTP, and the Autobahn driving cycle test from ADAC itself. In particular, the latter one features driving at highway speeds of 130 km/h and full-throttle acceleration. Additionally, all three cycles were measured with low-beam headlights on, and on the world and gighway test with the air conditioning on.

Source: Mazda

March 19, 2012

Alternative Fuels: Propane, Electricity, Ammonia and Liquid Nitrogen

Yesterday we discussed two of the most popular alternative fuels – biodiesel and alcohol fuel. As we already became familiar, both are efficient not only in ecological terms, but also in economical ones. Given that the concerns around the global warming are escalating, I presume that in the future, there will be a great necessity for vehicles which emit less CO2 or are with zero emissions. Hence, this leads to the though that even more alternative ways for propulsion are going to arise in the near future. As we all can see, even now on the market, there is a big expansion of electric vehicles and hybrid ones. In addition, the brands are competing in the development of vehicles which are both fuel efficient and ecologically preserving.

First, let’s review one popular alternative fuel: propane. It is a compressed natural gas which almost everybody has used in their homes. However, it is popular as an alternative fuel too. It is a by-product of natural gas processing and petroleum refining. The process is called cracking. What is commonly used as vehicle fuel is actually a mixture of propane and butane, or more familiar as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG or LP gas). It is not necessary to state the environmental benefits of its use and the fuel efficiency it delivers for they are already very well known. Take a look at some models, which are using this type of fuel:

Extremely utilized way of alternative vehicle propulsion is through the means of electricity. The good news is that although the EVs were very popular more than hundred years ago, their development now flourishes. Moreover, it seems that the automotive world is in a stage of competition. The different brands are investing nowadays more than ever in the development of technologies, using electricity as alternative fuel. The EVs use electricity which is stored in battery in the car and don’t emit CO2. Although, they aren’t as fast as their gasoline powered rivals, they are considered perfect for city driving. Some of the electric vehicles, already on the market:

Did you know that ammonia can be used as fuel? In fact, ammonia has been proposed as a practical alternative to fossil fuel for internal combustion engines back in the beginning of the last century. In addition, it can be successfully used in already existing vehicles, which engines need only slight modification. Ammonia is beneficial in terms of zero emissions and economical efficiency.

Liquid nitrogen is another type of emissionless alternative fuel. Liquid nitrogen vehicles are comparable in many ways to the electric vehicles. However, they use liquid nitrogen to store the energy instead of batteries as it is in the case of EVs. They have several advantages that should be mentioned. First of all, they can be powered through the electrical grid (which contributes to their eco-friendliness). Secondly, there wouldn’t be any transportation of the fuel, since the power is delivered from the electrical grid. This is also economically viable. Next, the maintenance is also at low costs. At last but not least, the liquid nitrogen vehicles don’t have the degradation problems of the battery systems.

To sum up there are many different types of alternative fuels and nowadays even more are developed and considered for commercial use. Of course the main reason for this expansion of research is the negative environmental impact which the gasoline powered vehicles are causing, due to their high levels of CO2 emissions in the atmosphere. Undoubtedly, in the near future the commercial use of electric cars or hybrid ones won’t be considered as extravagancy but as a high level of environmental awareness.

Vehicles with Zero Emissions - the future of the automotive world? — Vehicles with Zero Emissions – the future of the automotive world

March 4, 2012

Alternative Fuels: Biofuel, Alcohol and Hydrogen

This week’s fresh “eco” air is a small review of some of the alternative fuels available for use. A simple fact is that humanity sooner or later will experience the necessity of their utilization. Hence, the aim of the article is not only to raise the ecological awareness, but also to lift up the veil of ignorance around the alternative vehicle fuels that can be successfully utilized. (more…)

March 3, 2012

2012 Mazda Demio 13C-V Smart Edition

Mazda Motor Corporation has just released the new 2012 Mazda Demio 13C-V Smart Edition for their customers in Japan. Mazda Demio is known in other countries as Mazda2. The 13C-V Smart Edition is based on the 13C-V model, which is designed with the aim to promote introduction of clean energy vehicles and is newly equipped with dark tinted glass in the rear door and rear gate. In addition, through the replacement of the existing automatic climate control with new manual air conditioning, its price was set to deliver more value for money. The base model of this Special Edition features: dark tinted glass (rear door glass and rear gate glass), manual air conditioning (changed from automatic climate control). There are also available nine body colors: Spirited Green Metallic, Metropolitan Gray Mica, Radiant Ebony Mica, True Red, Chrystal White Pearl Mica, Brilliant Black, Sunlight Silver Metallic, Aluminum Metallic and Burgundy Red Mica. The interior colors however are only two: Black and Light Gray.

Source: Mazda

March 1, 2012

Mazda CX-5 with Smart City Brake Support

Mazda has announced their latest technology named Smart City Brake Support (SCBS). It practically helps a driver to avoid frontal collisions during city driving at low speeds. The all-new 2012 Mazda CX-5 compact crossover will be equipped with SCBS. The safety system uses a laser sensor to detect a vehicle or obstacle in front of the Mazda CX-5. If the driver fails to slow the vehicle appropriately, or to take avoiding action, SCBS automatically activates the brakes and reduces the engine output at the same time. In such way, the SCBS helps to avoid collisions rom rear-end collisions at low speeds, which are among the most common accidents in the city.

Actually, the system works at low speeds between 4 km/h (2.5 mph) and 30.5 km/h (19 mph). As we mentioned a laser sensor, which is mounted at the top of the windscreen detects a vehicle or obstacle in front of the car. It also monitors the gap between the two vehicles and the closing speed. If the SCBS calculates that there is a risk of a collision occurring and the driver were to take no action, the safety system pre-pressures the braking system. This ensures a faster response when the driver activates the brakes. Still, if there is no action from the driver, an automatic braking operation is activated. Remember, it is only effective within speeds from 4 km/h to 30.5 km/h.

Mazda Motor Corporation is working hard on its safety technologies. The manufacturer is aiming for the ultimate goal of realising an accident-free and safe motorised society. Mazda intends to extend its advanced safety technologies, such as SCBS, to future new models, following its debut on Mazda CX-5, to contribute to provide all customers with driving pleasure together with outstanding environmental and safety performance.

Mazda CX-5 with Smart City Brake Support

Source: Mazda

February 27, 2012

2012 Mazda3 Upgraded – UK Price £13 495

Mazda UK has announced the price list for the new upgraded Mazda3, which starts at just £13 495 OTR meaning a £2 300 saving for the 1.6 TS model.

The 2012 Mazda3 Upgraded features a new face, new rear bumper and new twist-spoke alloy wheels. The interior boasts new materials and colours, improved ease-of-use for the driver, new equipment and a quieter cabin.

“We anticipate that the upgraded Mazda3 will enable us to increase sales of our C-segment contender during 2012. Mazda3 was already a great car and the changes to the upgraded model are subtle but every one makes a difference to either fuel economy or driving feel.” said Peter Allibon, Sales Director, Mazda UK.

“The outgoing Mazda3 was the second-best selling Mazda model in the UK and took us into different segments of the retail and fleet markets. The 1.6 diesel has been hugely popular and the 2.2 diesel with 185ps is still the highest power C-segment diesel model of any brand available in the UK market place. The introduction of the more sporty exterior, more premium interior and two new Sport models with the 1.6 diesel powertrain for 2012, plus worthwhile fuel consumption and CO₂emissions reductions, means we are confident that the upgraded Mazda3 will attract a growing number of consumers to our brand”, he added. .

The new Upgraded model also features fine-tuned suspension and steering to deliver better handling and comfort. The super-efficient Mazda 1.6-litre diesel, available in six versions of Mazda3, is a lightweight, compact and extremely efficient unit.

The standard equipment includes manual AC and electric front windows (entry-level S model), TS adds dual-zone climate control, TS² specification features a heated windscreen and integrated Bluetooth hands-free system, Sport models are fitted with 17” alloy wheels and a Bose audio system with 10 speakers, and Sport Nav models have a fully integrated, SAT NAV system.

The Launch Edition Mazda3 Tamura is also available from £15 955 OTR. It exceptional value with a sports styling pack, front fog lights and unique 17” black gloss diamond cut alloy wheels. Available in a choice of four colours including: Aluminium Silver Metallic, Autumn Bronze Mica, Black Mica and Crystal White Pearlescent.

Check out the full specs here!

Source: Mazda

February 24, 2012

2013 Mazda CX-5 featuring SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY offers environmentally friendly fun

Mazda CX-5 SUV Thumb 2013 Mazda CX-5

The brand-new generation and one of the most efficient Mazda ever is the all-new 2013 Mazda CX-5, which will hit the growing European compact crossover SUV market in the spring this year. What is ore important here is that the new CX-5 model will feature the ground braking SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. The latter is Mazda’s innovative new line-up of engines, transmissions, chassis and bodies. It is especially developed for cars which are affordable, fun yet economical to drive, and environmentally friendly. The figures are more than impressive: at 4.6 l/100 km and 119 g/km, the CX-5 with SKYACTIV-D diesel engine has combined cycle fuel economy and CO2 emissions. This makes it one of the best in its segment not only in Europe, but also all around the world.

The key design behind the innovative SKYACTIV technology is the internal combustion. And namely this technology is going to be the predominant engine technology for the next decade, with industry coverage of at least 80%. Mazda made a great step into improving the basics of internal combustion power, coming up with a range of unique innovations. The idea is to progressively supplement this enhanced basis – SKYACTIV petrol and diesel engines – with advanced technology. From the i-stop idle-stop system and regenerative braking to hybrid systems and more, their efficiency will continually enhance. This strategy stands under the name “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom”, and it goes beyond optimizing internal combustion. What is more here is that the Sustainable Zoom-Zoom is also about lightweight designs. Here Mazda’s goal is to make each new model generation 100 kg lighter than its predecessor. The ultimate goal for 2015 is to improve the average fuel efficiency of its global model line-up by 30% relative to 2008 levels.

New Mazda CX-5 diesel CO2 emissions and fuel consumption:

Model	FWD 150 PS 6MT	FWD 150 PS 6AT	AWD 150 PS 6MT	AWD 150 PS 6AT	AWD 175 PS 6MT	AWD 175 PS 6AT
Average fuel consumption (l/100 km)	4.6	5.3	5.2	5.5	5.2	5.5
CO2 (g/km)	119	139	136	144	136	144

Source: Mazda

February 20, 2012

Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition

We 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.

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.

Source: Mazda

February 20, 2012

Mazda CX-5 Crossover SUV launched in Japan

Mazda Motor Corporation has just announced the launch of the all-new Mazda CX-5 Crossover SUV in all dealerships in Japan. The CX-5 is going to become a core model in the Mazda lineup. In addition, the all-new CX-5 is the first model to adopt Mazda’s breakthrough SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. It will also include gasoline and diesel engines, transmissions, body and chassis, offering a predictable and refined driving experience combined with great fuel economy. A lot of attention is put on design, dynamic performance, functionality, environmental and safety performance, thus way providing predictable and responsive driving experience.

To go further into details, the all-new CX-5 has a line-up of two new-generation engines. The first one is the model equipped with Mazda’s SKYACTIV-D 2.2 clean diesel engine. It meets Japan’s Post New Long-Term Emissions Regulations without an expensive NOx after-treatment device, while at the same time delivering fuel economy of 18.6km/l, and maximum torque of 420Nm (400 lb-ft). The second model, the SKYACTIV-G 2.0L one is equipped with the highly-efficient direct injection gasoline engine, and includes Mazda’s 4-2-1 exhaust system. It delivers great fuel economy of 16.0 km/l.

In addition, Mazda CX-5 features the new design theme, which goes under the slogan KODO – SOUL of MOTION. The exterior design features bold styling that simultaneously expresses SUV-like solidity and functionality with finely-honed vitality and dynamism typical of Mazda. Furthermore, it expresses strength and depth adopting Mazda’s signature wing, seen in the new-generation Mazda design. The side view features the prominent front fenders and the sculptured body sides accentuate a sense of power. While the exterior is sporty and bold, the interior is an inviting space that makes one want to drive it the moment one sees it. For the interior, Mazda’s goal was to make an enjoyable space that is comfortable for everyone in the vehicle in any situation. There are featured 40:20:40 split fold-down seat backs and karakuri folding configuration means that even when carrying long objects, two adults can sit comfortably in the rear seats. This functionality is offered as a standard feature for the XD L Package, the XD and the 20S grades. Other standard features include: door pockets with bottle holder to carry a one-liter bottle, and a function to display in the rearview mirror images from the side monitor, and reverse guiding monitor to aid parking. Next, the new Mazda CX-5 utilizes Mazda’s SKYACTIV-BODY light weight, highly rigid body and all model grades come with curtain and front side airbags, Dynamic Stability Control system and Traction Control System as standard safety equipment Smart City Brake Support (SCBS).

Source: Mazda

February 16, 2012

2012 Mazda CX-5 – Price £21 395

Mazda has announced the new 2013 CX-5 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, last year. The all new vehicle is now available on the UK market with a competitive price starting from £21 395 and rising to £28 795 OTR.

The engine range offers a 2.0 litre SKYACTIV 165PS petrol and 2.2 litre SKYACTIV 150PS or 175PS diesel variants. All are offered with either manual or automatic transmissions, 2WD or AWD, and four equipment levels – SE-L, SE-L Nav, Sport and Sport Nav.

Depending on model, the all-new Mazda CX-5 will return a fuel consumption figure of 61.4 to 47.0mpg (combined cycle) and achieve remarkably low CO₂ emissions for a compact SUV of 119 to 144g/km. With a rating of 119g/km the Mazda CX-5 150ps diesel 2WD model is significantly below the class average of 147g/km measured across 11 rivals.

The standard equipment (SE-L) includes 17” alloy wheels, front fog lights, dual‑zone climate control air-conditioning, Smart City Brake Support and privacy glass, plus front and rear parking sensors. Moving up the CX-5 range, Sport grade models will feature 19-inch alloy wheels, Bi-Xenon headlights with Active Front Lighting System, full leather trim, heated front seats, powered driver’s seat and a reversing camera.

While production for the UK market is likely to be limited this year, Mazda has established a pre-ordering facility that will enable customers to order a Mazda CX-5 via their local dealership, allowing them to become one of the first customers to own a vehicle featuring SKYACTIV technology.

Mazda CX-5 / Price List – February 2012

2WD SKYACTIV-G	‘On the road’ Retail	CO₂ (g/km)	RFL Band	Insurance Group	P11D Value	Annual BIK 20 / 40%
2.0 SE-L	£21,395	139	E	TBD	17%	£722 / £1,443
2.0 SE-L NAV	£21,795	139	E	TBD	17%	£735 / £1,471
2.0 Sport	£23,595	139	E	TBD	17%	£796 / £1,593
2.0 Sport NAV	£23,995	139	E	TBD	17%	£810 / £1,620
2WD SKYACTIV-D
2.2 SE-L (150)	£22,995	119	C	TBD	13%	£596 / £1,193
2.2 SE-L NAV (150)	£23,395	119	C	TBD	13%	£607 / £1,214
2.2 SE-L Auto (150)	£24,295	139	E	TBD	20%	£965 / £1,930
2.2 SE-L NAV Auto (150)	£24,695	139	E	TBD	20%	£981 / £1,962
2.2 Sport (150)	£25,195	119	C	TBD	13%	£654 / £1,307
2.2 Sport NAV (150)	£25,595	119	C	TBD	13%	£664 / £1,328
AWD SKACTIV-D
2.2 SE-L (150)	£24,695	136	E	TBD	20%	£981 / £1,962
2.2 SE-L NAV (150)	£25,095	136	E	TBD	20%	£997 / £1,994
2.2 SE-L Auto (150)	£25,895	144	F	TBD	21%	£1,080 / £2,160
2.2 SE-L NAV Auto (150)	£26,295	144	F	TBD	21%	£1,097 / £2,193
2.2 Sport (175)	£27,195	136	E	TBD	20%	£1,081 / £2,162
2.2 Sport NAV (175)	£27,595	136	E	TBD	20%	£1,097 / £2,194
2.2 Sport Auto (175)	£28,395	144	F	TBD	21%	£1,185 / £2,370
2.2 Sport NAV Auto (175)	£28,795	144	F	TBD	21%	£1,202 / £2,403

NB‘On the road’ prices include 20.0% VAT, number plates, delivery, 12 months road fund licence, first registration fee, 3 year or 60,000 mile warranty and 3 years European Roadside Assistance.

All models are available with free 7-day drive away insurance.

Source: Mazda

February 14, 2012

Mazda Takeri concept car

Mazda will exhibit its Takeri concept car for the first time in Europe at the Geneva International Motor Show, next month. This is Mazda’s next-generation mid-sized saloon featuring unique i-ELOOP regenerative braking technology. It will also be joined by CX-5 compact crossover SUV and MX-5 Special Edition Spring 2012.

The Takeri Concept Car boasts Mazda’s KODO – Soul of Motion’ design theme, bringing a new level of strength and allure to saloon styling. It is truly remarkable even in stand-still position. The engine is also a new SKYACTIV-D diesel engine with a fuel-saving i-stop system and 6-speed SKYACTIV-Drive automatic gearbox.

Furthermore, the Takeri is the first Mazda car to be equipped with i-ELOOP – short for “Intelligent Energy Loop”. It is advanced technology using regenerative braking system to convert kinetic energy to electricity during deceleration and stores it in an electric double-layer capacitor. The power is used to run the vehicle’s electric components, thereby reducing the load on the engine and increasing fuel economy by up to 10%. This contributes to the Mazda Takeri’s outstanding fuel economy, which is achieved at no sacrifice to performance or comfort.

Mazda’s display at the 82^nd Geneva International Motor Show will also showcase the company’s brand-new SKYACTIV technology as well as the full range of current models. Press days are 6-7 March, and the show is open to the public from 8-18 March.

Mazda’s exhibits at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show

Reference exhibits	Mazda Takeri (European premiere) Mazda CX-5 Mazda MX-5 Special Edition Spring 2012 (Premiere)
Technology exhibits	SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engine SKYACTIV-G direct-injection petrol engine SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission SKYACTIV-MT manual transmission i-ELOOP regenerative braking system CX-5 ‘X-ray’ display
Vehicles currently on sale	Mazda2, Mazda3, Mazda5, Mazda6, Mazda MX-5

Source: Mazda

February 13, 2012

Tag: Mazda