Tag: Mazda

  • Mazda is named Best Car Brand for the third time. Check out why!

    Yes, it has happened for a third time. Mazda has been awarded the prestigious Best Car Brand award by US News & World Report. Praised for aesthetics, advanced drivetrain system solutions and numerous hi-end features, Mazda team confidently greets the new 2018 season year.

    In order to determine the winner, US News Best Cars jury has given scores to all competitors, based on certain requirements. And what has caught the eye, was Mazda’s elegant body language, the well-known KODO technology, the advanced technology settings and the meticulous engineering. And as expected, the team has earned the highest available score and was of course, named the winner in the category. In fact, the overall score came directly from the US News Best Cars ranking that place the competitors one after another based on information, gathered from automobile press, safety scores and overall reliable data.

    SEE ALSO: Even the Scandinavian Winter Cannot Scare the Mercedes eVan! Details here!

    Of course, contribution to the high score was given by Mazda’s obsession with small details, constant refinement of technologies and the innovative SKYACTIV technology that is still one of the most advanced in the world. And let‘s not forget one of the most important things, as it comes to automobile driving: Mazda vehicles deliver incredible driving experience and pleasure.

    Source: Mazda

  • Mazda and Toyota: what do these rivals have in common?

    Toyota Supra vs Mazda RX-9

    Here we have a long-awaited battle in the making. Both super cars from both Toyota & Mazda are expected to be made available for 2018 year, and we wanted to give readers the opportunity to understand how the two will match up initially.

    Let us dive into the Toyota Supra. Toyota had announced that they plan to work side by side with BMW when designing and creating this super car, so that right there speaks volume in terms of their dedication to making this vehicle not just high performing but efficient.

    SEE ALSO: Toyota and the TNGA architecture: it slowly becomes a trend. But a good one!

    On the other end the RX-9 is going to have a brand new rotary engine specifically designed for the vehicle, and the wait on that engines techs & specs is going to really dictate the volume of this comparison in the future.

    The Supra has already made it clear that it will be equipped with a 3.0-liter Twin-Turbo V6 that will push 400 horsepower. Meanwhile Mazda has done a remarkable job of keeping their power and performance under wraps. One would suggest either because they have yet to decide on the product, or they might be holding back on something special.

     

     

  • Even the mightiest of cars should bear good tires. Here’s why!

    Are Your Tires too Old to Be Driving on?

    Of all your car’s parts, its tires have the greatest effect on the way it handles and brakes. Unfortunately, failures of older tires have resulted in fatalities. Thus, it’s important to keep an eye on your tires! The investigation into the accident’s cause that killed actor Paul Walker in 2013 revealed that the Porsche Carrera GT he was riding in had nine-year-old tires. The California Highway Patrol indicated that the tires’ age may have compromised how they handled.

    For years, drivers have relied on the tread depth to judge the condition of a tire. But the rubber compounds in a tire wear out with time, regardless of the tread’s condition. An old tire can be a safety hazard. For some people, old tires will never be a problem. If you drive somewhere around 12,000-15,000 miles each year, a tire’s tread may wear out in three to four years, before the rubber compound does. But if you only drive around 6,000 miles a year, aging tires may be an issue.

    Rubber bands may illustrate the point. Everyone knows that rubber bands age poorly and will develop cracks within a couple of years. That’s essentially what happens to a tire. Cracks in their rubber start to develop over time. They may appear on the surface and inside the tire, too. This cracking can eventually cause the tread’s steel belts to separate from the rest of the tire. Hard use can accelerate the process.

    How to determine a tire’s age

    SEE ALSO: speedART team showcases a neatly revised Porsche vehicle. Check it out!

    Tires made after the year 2000 have a four-digit DOT code. The first two numbers represent the week of the year in which the tire was made. The second two represent the year of make. A tire with a DOT code of 1207 was made in 2007’s 12th week. Check tires once in a while for any sign of aging, such as tread distortion, or small or large hairline cracks in the sidewall. According to the Service manager at Hiley Mazda of Hurst, a local full-service car dealer in Hurst, TX, vibrations may also be an indicator of aging problems.

    How long a tire lasts for

    If living in a warm climate, you may want to pay special attention to your tires. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has found that tires deteriorate quicker in warmer climates than cooler ones. Do you live near the coast? Keep that in mind when monitoring the condition of your tires. Are you using a spare tire? Well, avoid storing it in the trunk. It will get really hot in there.

    However, the NHTSA doesn’t have any specific guidelines on tire aging and defers to the recommendations of tire manufacturers and car makers. Some carmakers such as Mercedes-Benz and Nissan tell people to replace tires six years after their production date, regardless of their tread life. A few tire manufacturers, such as Continental and Michelin, say that a tire can last up to ten years when a driver has all the proper maintenance done as per their vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation.

     

     

     

  • The New Mazda3: Is is that impressive after all?

    2017 Mazda3Mazda has always been confident with its bold steps. And this attitude hasn’t changed with the new 2017 Mazda3. As always, we see rather confident vehicles, created by a confident and skilled team and honestly said, we are impressed. Again. Recently unveiled, the vehicle comes with fresh exterior changes, interior updates and of course, some neat drivetrain tweaks.

    So, what did Mazda buyers and enthusiasts like about this one? Let’s start with the exterior looks, shall we? As always, Mazda presents a beautiful and expressive design: there is a new front grille design, refreshed LED headlights with new illumination technology, new 18-inch wheels and a total of nine body finishes. These include an all-new for Mazda3 lineup: Eternal Blue Mica.

    The cabin has also received some special attention. It has evolved and now includes even higher-quality components. There are new dashboard and trim inserts, more practical central console, leather steering wheel and more.

    2017 Mazda3

    There are also new Active Driving Display and instrument binnacle dials that are not only far more functional, compared to the predecessor models, but also contribute to a better interior expression and ambience. In fact, as we are talking about ambience, the new model is available with either black fabric or a combination of black and white leather.

    Drivetrain system and additional gadgets

    2017 Mazda3

    2017 Mazda3 hatchback and sedan models come with a choice of engine systems. Starting with a 105hp (78kW) SKYACTIV-D 1.5-liter turbodiesel and a 2.2-liter 150hp (111kW) SKYACTIV-D bi-turbo diesel engine, the latest generation of Mazda3 will also be available with three SKYACTIV-G petrol units: a 1.5-liter 100hp (74kW) unit, a 2.0-liter 120hp (89kW) engine and a 2.0-liter 165hp (123kW). All of these are Euro6-complant systems and can be further paired to a six-speed manual or automatic SKYACTIV gearbox systems.

    SEE ALSO: Mazda Unveiled the MX-5 Cup Sports Vehicle

    In terms of fresh additions, Mazda3 offers a G-Vectoring Control System that further expands the list of SKYACTIV DYNAMICS technologies. What this bad boy does is to change torque distribution in order to optimize load on each wheel and therefore provide more precise handling and driving comfort.

    2017 Mazda3

    Also, the vehicle is equipped with an i-ACTIVSENCE driver-supporting safety technologies that aim to become a segment-leader in terms of comfort and safety. There are also Advanced Smarty City Brake Support, Smart Brake Support and Traffic Sign Recognition systems. Sweet.

    As it looks like, this one is a worthy Mazda family member. But tell me, what do you think?

    Source: Mazda 

  • 2017 Miata MX-5 RF: Does it Feature Something We Haven’t Expected?

    2017 Mazda Miata MX-5 RF It is here. And it is sexy. And agile. The new 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF can already be ordered! Mazda North American Operation has also announced all details about the vehicle and we must say that we are impressed!

    What is most notable about this one is that it will be available with two impressive trim levels: the hi-tech Grand Touring and Club trim level. Both will be offered with SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox and numerous new additions as part of the standard equipment.

    In fact, many of the features are virtually copied from the soft top models, but there are also some exclusive additions: new Retractable Fastback, 4.6-infh full-color TFT screen, Machine Gray Metallic finish and Blind Spot Monitoring along with Rear Cross Traffic Alert as standard. Sweet.

    In terms of technology features, this one is doing just fine. There is this MAZDA CONNECT Infotainment System, SiriusXM and HD radio, smart phone integration, premium nine-speaker BOSE audio system, leather-wrapped steering wheel, LED headlights and taillights and more. But there are far more interesting features under the bonnet. Let’s see them!

    SEE ALSO: Mazda reveals a new kind of Miata: sporty, beautiful and exclusive

    The drivetrain system is really a sophisticated one. As sophisticated as it could be in terms of mass-production vehicle. MX-5 RF come with a Brembo/BBS Package that brings front shock-tower brace, side sill body extensions, forged BBS 17-inch wheels, Brembo front brakes and red-painted brake calipers.

    And especially for the MX-5 RF Grand Touring trim level, the engineering team has included heated leather seats, Adaptive Front-lightning System, High-Beam Control and Lane Departure Warning.

    Definitely a good addition to the MX-5 lineup, the latest models surely have caught our eye! But tell me, what do you think?

    Source: Mazda 

  • Mazda reveals a new kind of Miata: sporty, beautiful and exclusive

    2017 Mazda Miata MX-5 RFFunctional and flexible, this one is also limited!

    Beautiful, passionate and yet simple and elegant, the 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF made a quite dramatic debut at this year’s New York International Auto Show. Demonstrated with exclusive color combination and some sweet tweaks, the Grand Touring-based vehicle will definitely be pushing Mazda’s boundaries even further!

    Something more: this show car is expected to become the offspring of a special limited lineup of just 1,000 units, bearing the name of MX-5 RF Launch Edition. Cool.

    And here’s what we know so far

    Mazda North American Operations will notify a special group of customers about the offering of the limited edition and exclusively will offer the vehicle with numerous tweaking features, one of which is the choice between SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox.

    SEE ALSO: 2017 Mazda6: passionate and functional. As any Mazda vehicle should be

    Along with this and the exclusive Machine Grey finish, the lucky buyers will be granted with a custom-designed and numbered 42mm Tourneau watch to complement the limited run. Sweet.

    And what about for the rest of Mazda fans?

    Well, they will miss… nothing. All these “exclusive” features will be available for purchase, along with numerous more tweakable stuff: the Grand Touring trim level will be available, Auburn Nappa leather interior and badging, Club trim level and more.

    This is what we know so far. Hopefully, there will be more news and more stuff revealed as soon as possible. Meanwhile, stick with us!

    Source: Mazda 

  • 2017 Mazda6: passionate and functional. As any Mazda vehicle should be

    2017 Mazda6Getting more and more refined, with even better features and additions, 2017 Mazda6 sedan and wagon models  will be available for purchase this autumn.

    Since its first public appearance, Mazda6 lineup has been recognized as one of the most flexible and agile vehicles in the whole segment. Of course, Mazda team has pushed the boundaries further and further with each new release, and the 2017 model is no exception: we will see a vehicle with advanced G-Vectoring Control, blended with the well-known SKYACTIV-VEHICLE DYNAMICS technologies that have made Mazda so popular and reliable.

    2017 Mazda6

    What we know so far is that 2017 Mazda will be geared with three SKYACTIV petrol units and two diesel engines: all mated to either manual or automatic gearbox. Of course, the engine system has undergone numerous improvements. For example, one of the units, the SKYACTIV-D 2.2 engine, features three new technologies in order to reduce response time and engine noise. These are indeed High-Precision DE Boost Control and the Natural Sound Smoother. Cool, right? Oh, yeah. There is also a new exterior color trim: the Machine Grey.

    2017 Mazda6

    In terms of interior, designers have also made some changes here and there. Buyers will be granted with driver-oriented environment, new steering wheel design, refreshed Active Driving Display and one more 4,6-inch full-color TFT LCD infotainment display.

    SEE ALSO: 2017 Mazda CX-3 heads our way! What to expect?

    And last, but certainly not least, the safety suite. 2017 Mazda6 comes with i-ACTIVSENCE safety technologies with Traffic Sign Recognition, Advanced Smart City Brake Support system with forward-sensing camera and some more neat goodies.

    2017 Mazda6

    So far, so good. It looks as Mazda team does not give up its signature styling, quality and desire for perfection.

    What do you think about the new Mazda6? Write down in the comment section below!

    Source: Mazda 

  • Friends of MX-5 race event is about to start. Here’s what you must know!

    2016 Mazda MX-5 Cup Race

    This year’s September will witness how five grassroots racers will line up on the grid at the well-known Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca with full race-enhanced Mazda MX-5 Cup vehicles. The occasion? A special Global Mazda MX-5 Cup race. Cool.

    As many of you know, this weekend witnessed an intense knock-out competition at the ParcMotor Circuit, Barcelona where 20 racers were reduced to ten and then further knocked out to just five. These drivers are indeed Moritz Kranz (Germany), Kamil Franczak (Poland), Erik Blixt (Sweden), Oliver Allwood (UK) and Gabriele Gardel (Switzerland).

    Recruited from Europe via Mazda’s Friends of MX-5 engagement program and came together at weekend’s training camp to face-off through one hell of a knock-out race. Of course, there were numerous judges and professionals who voted for competitors and rated their race capabilities, reactions, driving dynamics and more. And as it appears, there were a total of five determined men who made it through the examinations.

    2016 Mazda MX-5 Cup Race

    As you might know, launched in April this year, Friends of MX-5 program tries to engage MX-5 owners all around the globe and since the beginning of the project, there were thousands of Mazda fans and enthusiasts that have exchanged tons of experience and wonderful emotions.

    SEE ALSO: Dodge sold out all of the Viper Final Editions. In a matter of minutes

    Furthermore, competitors at the assessment weekend will have the chance to try out the fresh 2016 Mazda MX-5 Global Cup Car: this is a heavily revised vehicle with more than 200 sporty components added in order not only to meet professionals’ requirements, but also to dominate the track entirely.

    Some of the notable tweaks include adjustable Dynamic Coilover suspension, GEMS engine management, race-tuned factory Brembo brakes, FIA approved roll cage, BFGoodrich tires and more.

    2016 Mazda MX-5 Cup Race

    All these five new Friends of MX-5 racers will line up in a packed field at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca against previous MX-5 Cup winners and all together will run for a chase of victory. Trying to break through to the front lines in a skill-demanding track, racers will surely make incredible event and we are most excited to know what would happen!

    Stick with us for further information!

    Source: Mazda 

  • Mazda MX-5 race teams prepare for a big race in September

    2016 Mazda MX-5 Cup CarBritish MX-5 racer Oliver Allowood secured a neat seat in the Mazda MX-5 Global Cup car for this year’s Global MX-5 Cup race that took place this year at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Oliver, who raced with a Mk1 MX-5, is one of just five European racers that have won fully-funded trips to race at the legendary American track.

    As we have told you, with the support of Mazda UK, the championship leaders of the British Racing and Sports Car Club (BRSCC) MX-Championship, 750 Motor Club, MX-5 Club and some more joined the intense knock-out competition at the ParcMotor Circuit. And there were five racers that have proven worthy: Moritz Kranz (Germany), Kamil Franczak (Poland), Erik Blixt (Sweden), Oliver Allwood (UK), Gabriele Gardel (Switzerland).

    2016 Mazda MX-5 Cup Car

    Based on the well-known and award-winning Mazda MX-5, the Global Cup car has been created in order to deliver this same road capability, but with some track-oriented improvements. It is built by Long Road Racing in North Carolina USA and offers the aid of the standard 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G power unit with sealed racing ECU, FIA-approved safety cage, AIM data system and special radiator. Of course, there are race springs, Brembo brakes and neat 17-inch RAYS wheels with slick tires. Long story short, racers will compete with a slightly improved road car.

     SEE ALSO: Mazda reveals more about the 2016 MX-5 Icon lineup. Check it out!

    The standalone global MX-5 Cup Race will be held at the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca circuit in September. There will be racers from all around the world: America, Europe, Australia and Japan.

    2016 Mazda MX-5 Cup Car

    Stick with us for further information!

    Source: Mazda 

     

  • Mazda reveals more about the 2016 MX-5 Icon lineup. Check it out!

    2016 Mazda MX-5 Icon Mazda MX-5 Icon Special Edition is about to make its global debut at this year’s  Goodwood Festival of Speed. Based on the SE-L Nav powertrain system, the new model is expected to show some incredible rates with the fourth-gen SKYACTIV-G engine.

    In terms of exterior features, we do know that the MX-5 Icon will be offered in Meteor Grey Mica or  Crystal White Pearlescent paint, enriched standard equipment and slightly changed design, compared to older models.

    2016 Mazda MX-5 Icon

    Definitely the bold Soul Red Metallic wing mirrors, the rear spoiler and the side stripe decals caught our eye. The 16-inch Gunmetal wheels and the leather-dominated interior further contribute to the overall sweet appearance.

    SEE ALSO: 2017 Mazda CX-3 heads our way! What to expect?

    And as it comes to the Goodwood festival, this year’s event audience will witness live music area, previous MX-5 models, the new MX-5 RF plus the first appearance of the MX-5 Speedster and Spyder concept vehicles outside America.

    2016 Mazda MX-5 Icon

    In fact, the Mazda MX-5 RF can already be preordered ahead of its official debut next year. But remember that there are limited supplies at the moments, so if you are into preordering, you’d better do it as quickly as possible.

    And one more thing: don’t forget to send us selfie with your new Mazda!

    Source: Mazda 

  • 2017 Mazda CX-3 heads our way! What to expect?

    2017 Mazda CX-3Mazda CX-3 was nominated as one of the finalists for 2016 World Car Design of the Year by more than seventy media jurors. But as we all know, looks are not everything: Mazda Radar Cruise Control and its Active Driving Display are the heroes of the lineup, along with the incredible driving dynamics and smooth driving. But apparently this does not stop the engineering team to deliver more and more refinement to the segment.

    For 2017, CX-3 will come with neat 18-inch alloy wheels, Mazda’s  i-ACTIVESENSE Package and tons of horsepower. To be precise, there are a total of 146 horses (108KW) to aim the sporty feel and road behavior. The SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter power unit is paired to a six-speed automatic gearbox and comes with selectable driving modes.

    In terms of style and convenience, the CX-3 Sport models will be equipped with 16-inch alloys, power mirrors, cloth seats, voice-command systems, Bluetooth phone connectivity, keyless entry, push-button start, power door locks, six-speaker audio system and air-conditioning.

    SEE ALSO: Mazda3 comes refined, enriched and more powerful. Here are some details

    On the other hand, CX-3 Touring are expected with 18-inch alloys, heated exterior door mirrors with integrated turn signal lamps, leatherette and cloth seating surface, heated front seats, heather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel, fold-down central armrest with phone holder, Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.

    And last, but not least, the CX-3 Grand Touring, the lineup topping model comes with all of the above, along with leather and Lux Suede seats, LED headlights, Adaptive Front-light System, LED fog lights, navigation, automatic climate control, paddle shifters and Active Driving Display.

    Prices for the 2017 Mazda CX-3 start from $19,960 USD.

    Source: Mazda 

  • Mazda CX-9 benefits from new functional and distinctive lights. Check them out!

    2016 Mazda CX-9So, how do you know if a brand has made a proper headlights? When the vehicle that heads towards you is instantly recognizable only by its headlights. Or at least Mazda team thinks so, as it comes to 2016 Mazda CX-9.

    The new SUV comes with distinctive body stance, advanced drivetrain system and apparently with some badass headlights. Let’s check more, shall we?

    In terms of illumination, the CX-9’s low-beam headlights produce 900 lumens per unit. This is about twice the output of halogen headlights. Also, these new units are 35% brighter than standard halogen lights and throw their lights 10% farther than the well-known xenon HID units. Sweet, right?

    SEE ALSO: Mazda3 comes refined, enriched and more powerful. Here are some details

    Indeed because of these ultra-versatile headlights, engineers were also able to pack both low- and high-beam lights in single housing of cleaner and sharper look. The lights are also more durable and more hi-end looking. In fact, one of the most functional features is the ability to reach the right amount of light, whether we talk about daytime, or for some midnight journey.

    The LED taillights work in a similar way and can light up even quicker than traditional set of back lights and also help preventing rear-end collisions. Handy, right?

    2016 Mazda CX-9 is already on sale and has a starting price of $31,520 USD.

    Source: Mazda