Truth be told, we find most SEMA concepts to simply be gaudy aftermarket overkill. These two Mazda models, however – now these are something we’d like to sink our teeth into.

Let’s start with the MX-5 Miata Spyder concept. The most obvious alteration here is the removal of the stock MX-5′s folding soft top (or hard top) for the sake of a stretched canvas roof, similar to the rakish and flying buttressed Porsche Boxster Spyder. That, combined with larger wheels, a lowered stance, aero kit and a revised front fascia make this a Miata we’d definitely want to spend a lot of quality time with. We’re already madly in love with the standard car, so making it lighter and improving the dynamics promises to be nothing short of motoring bliss.
The second concept is something we’ve been begging Mazda to create for quite some time, too. The Turbo2 is, according to Mazda, “one of our most powerful turbocharged engines in our lightest platform.” That’s a recipe for success if we’ve ever heard one. We can do without the ground effects kit and graphics package, but the thought of a turbocharged engine under the hood of a better-tuned Mazda2 (read: Mazdaspeed2) is a project we’re more than willing to get behind.

We’ll see both concepts live from Las Vegas next week. For now, feast your eyes on the hotness in our high-res image gallery.
[Source:Autoblog]

Foreign automakers Mazda and Hyundai are trimming their ranks of workers in the United States. Mazda saw its sales decline by over 10% in 2008 and the new year is shaping up to be significantly worse as the Japanese automaker posted a sales decline of 27.3% in January compared to the previous year. In response, roughly 110 Mazda employees were laid off this month from a total of about 800 employees.

Unlike Mazda, Hyundai was one of the few automakers to actually record a sales increase last year and again posted positive numbers in January 2009. Regardless, the Korean automaker has also trimmed its ranks in the U.S. by about 46 employees, suggesting that Hyundai forecasts tough roads ahead, as well. Most of the employees being let go by both automakers come from their sales and marketing departments.

[Source:autoblog]

The recent news out of Japan hasn’t been good for fans of front-engine, rear-wheel-drive two-doors. First came word that Subaru and Toyota were postponing the launch of their boxer-powered RWD coupe, then the S2000 is killed off and finally reports suggest that Nissan has cancelled its Silvia successor. Thankfully, all is not lost. InsideLine is reporting that Mazda is hard at work on another version of the RX-7 and development is underway on the next RX-8, supposedly – and predictably – dubbed the RX-9.

According to IL’s (traditionally) unnamed sources, Mazda is working on a 16X twin-rotor Wankel (two rotors, each displacing 800cc), boosting displacement of the current 13B by 300cc and putting out upwards of 270 hp in naturally aspirated guise. Mazda’s aim for its next generation of rotary engines is to dramatically reduce emissions and boost fuel economy to the tune of 20%.

Mazda will likely use the same engine to motivate the RX-7, but in addition to offering a traditional manual gearbox, Mazda is developing a dual-clutch transmission with a twist: the DCT will allow drivers to set the exact points where the clutch packs engage for maximum performance on the track.

The RX-7′s circuit-friendly cred is enhanced by the report that Mazda engineers are struggling to keep the coupe’s curb weight in check. An all-new chassis is being developed that will supposedly eliminate around 220 pounds, bringing the RX-7′s weight down to approximately 2,640 pounds.

We’re keeping our fingers crossed that both the RX-7 and RX-9 will make an appearance during this year’s show season, although the way things are going, we don’t expect to see either at this year’s Tokyo Motor Show.

[Source:Autoblog]

While we were gathered here in rainy Chicago for the Auto Show, we received word that the 2010 refresh for the Mazda CX-7 has in fact debuted some 500 miles away in Toronto, Canada. This switcheroo had us searching the floor here in McCormick for a 2010 model lazing away in the corner of Mazda’s stand, but instead we only found the 2009 model. After the press conference, we stopped to chat with James O’Sullivan, Mazda’s North American president and CEO, and he confirmed the Canadian debut was in fact the global premier.

The big news coming out of the Canadian International Auto Show for 2010 is that the CX-7 is getting a new 2.5-liter normally-aspirated four-cylinder model (the same engine is employed in the 2010 Mazda6 and Mazda3). So-equipped, the CX-7 generates 161 horsepower (at 6000 rpm) and maximum torque of 161 pound-feet of torque (at 3500 rpm). The turbocharged, 244-horsepower 2.3-liter engine remains unchanged. Further details like fuel-economy, price, and trim specification for this model will be revealed “at a later date,” and in fact there is no official confirmation that the normally-aspirated inline-four will come to America, although it would be hard to imagine Mazda not doing so.

Beyond powertrains, Mazda has refined the CX-7 inside-and-out, including a redesigned front end with a larger five-point grille and different front and rear fascias. Inside, new gauge faces have taken up residence, along with a 4.1-inch color TFT information display, an available blind-spot monitoring system, three-position seat memory for the driver’s seat (and a power backrest for the passenger seat), and Bluetooth for both phones and audio.

More after the jump…

Further refinements have also been exacted on the CX-7 with the goal of increasing stiffness, reduced NVH, and lowered wind noise, although Mazda is not yet disclosing how those improvements have been arrived at.

So… why the brush-off for the Windy City? After all, the CX-7 isn’t built in Canada, right? In our talk with O’Sullivan, we learned that the reason is three-fold:

1. Mazda wanted to focus on the 20th anniversary of the Miata (which made its global debut in Chicago).
2. Canada is a particularly strong market for Mazda, where it maintains a 5% market share (the U.S. only recently cracked 2%).
3. Mazda models go on sale earlier in Canada than they do in the U.S. In the case of the 2010 Mazda3, cars are shipping to Canadian dealers this week – American showrooms won’t see cars for a month or more. The same story figures to play out with the CX-7, meaning that an earlier public review was a necessity.

In any case, U.S. consumers will have to wait until the New York Auto Show in April for their first look at the 2010 CX-7.

PRESS RELEASE:

2010 Mazda CX-7 2.5 Litre makes its Canadian premiere at the Canadian International Auto Show

Refreshed 2009 Mazda MX-5 also to debut as well

(Toronto, ON): Two Mazdas will make their Canadian debut at the 2009 Canadian International AutoShow. The first is the 2010 Mazda CX-7, which receives a new engine option: a 161 horsepower, naturally aspirated 2.5 litre four-cylinder that is also found under the hood of the 2009 Mazda6 and 2010 Mazda3. The second is the refreshed 2009 Mazda MX-5, which receives updated styling in addition to engineering and equipment upgrades. Mazda’s stand will also include the redesigned 2010 Mazda3, in both 4-door sedan and 5-door hatchback body styles.

2010 Mazda CX-7
For the 2010 model year the CX-7 is the recipient of an exterior and interior styling refresh to complement a host of engineering refinements. Leading the way is a new engine option. Making its first appearance under the hood of the CX-7 is Mazda’s all-new naturally aspirated DOHC 16-valve 2.5 litre MZR four-cylinder that produces 161 horsepower at 6000rpm and offers maximum torque of 161 lb-ft at 3500rpm. It is available with Front-Wheel Drive coupled to a 5-speed automatic transmission. Continuing as the top engine option is the familiar MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo (direct injection DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder) engine. Output remains the same, 244 horsepower at 5,000 rpm with 258 lb-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm.

A theme of refinement carries over to the 2010 CX-7′s Mazda-derived platform architecture by incorporating improvements in body rigidity, lower noise, vibration & harshness (NVH) levels as well as reduced wind noise. The exterior design of the 2010 CX-7 features revised front and rear fascias with the front adopting the larger five-point grille design similar in appearance to recently redesigned RX-8, MX-5 and Mazda3.

On the inside the 2010 CX-7 receives higher quality materials, a new design for the gauges including blackout meters that feature three-dimensional dials and a 3.5 inch super-twisted nematic (STN) monochrome and 4.1 inch thin-film transistor (TFT) colour Multi Information Display (MID) positioned at the top of the instrument panel to provide the driver with enhanced information. Bluetooth compatibility provides a wireless connection for Bluetooth compatible mobile phones and portable audio devices. The front seats gain a three-position memory function for the driver’s seat and a power adjustable recliner for the passenger’s seat. A Blind Spot Monitoring System, similar to the one found on the Mazda6 & CX-9 is now available to assist the driver in avoiding collisions with other vehicles when changing lanes or merging with traffic.

Final specifications, pricing, trim levels and options will be announced at a later date closer to when the 2010 CX-7 goes on sale.

2009 Mazda MX-5
Twenty years ago Mazda re-created the segment for affordable, fun-to-drive roadsters by introducing the MX-5 Miata. In those twenty years the MX-5 has earned the title of best selling roadster in the world. For 2009, the third-generation MX-5 retains the fun-to-drive qualities of the original and receives updated styling in addition to engineering and equipment upgrades.

Mazda Canada will continue to offer the MX-5 in three versions: GX, GS and GT, all powered by an all-aluminum, DOHC, 167 horsepower, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine with variable valve timing. The 2009 MX-5 GX is ideal for driving enthusiasts looking for an affordable sports roadster and includes a 5-speed manual transmission and 16-inch alloy wheels with 205/50R16 tires.The MX-5 GS & GT include a 6-speed manual transmission, 17-inch alloy wheels with 205/45/17 performance tires, a limited slip differential (LSD), dynamic stability control (DSC), strut tower bar, and sport-tuned suspension with BilsteinÆ shock absorbers. The GT offers a dash of luxury as it comes well equipped with an assortment of premium features such as Xenon (HID) headlights, BoseÆ audio system, Sirius satellite radio, BluetoothÆ with Audio Profile, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, leather seats with adjustable heating, and smart keyless entry system.

For those that prefer the benefit of a closed coupe when the roof is up, the Power Retractable Hard Top is offered as an option on the GS or standard equipment on the GT. A few new standard features find their way onto all trim levels including side impact airbags, MP3 & WMA functionality on the CD player, a door pocket insert, and soft feel centre arm rest.

2010 Mazda3
Launched in 2003 as a 2004 model, the compact Mazda3 has become one of the best selling cars in Canada. Worldwide, there have been over 2 million Mazda3′s built and since its introduction the Mazda3 has earned more than 90 automobile awards around the globe including the highly coveted 2004 Canadian Car of the Year.The definitive fun-to-drive compact, the 2010 Mazda3 looks to build upon that success with the style, functionality,safety, and economy to once again lead its class. Trim levels for the 2010 Mazda3 remain identical to the outgoing model, GX, GS and GT, but that’s about where the similarities end.

The entry-level GX and GS sedan, as well as the unique to Canada Sport GX, are powered by an economical 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, 16-valve, DOHC engine that produces 148 horsepower mated to a five-speed manual transmission. The 2010 Mazda3 Sedan GT and Mazda3 Sport GS/GT trims are powered by the all new 167 horsepower, 2.5 litre four-cylinder and six-speed manual gearbox taken from the Mazda6.For 2010, there are more standard and optional features rarely seen in this segment of the market, such as a Traction Control System (TCS) with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), exterior mirror mounted turn signals, colour Multi Information Display (MID) with Navigation, smart keyless entry with Smart Start, a 10-speaker BOSEÆ audio system with Centerpoint and Audio Pilot, Sirius satellite radio, and an Adaptive Front Lighting System with self-levelling Bi-Xenon headlights.

Rounding out the Mazda display in Toronto is the full complement of Mazda’s award-winning vehicles including the 2009 Mazda5 and 2009 Mazda B-series 2300 pickup both of which were recently awarded ecoENERGY awards as the most fuel efficient vehicles in their classes (van and pickup truck respectively) by Natural Resources Canada. The 2009 Mazda6, recently named “Best New Family Vehicle $22,000-$35,000″ by the Automotive Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) will also be on display as well as the RX-8, CX-9 and Tribute.

[Source:Autoblog]

Next month at the Geneva Motor Show, we’ll finally get a look at the highly-anticipated Mazda3 MPS (that’s Mazdaspeed3 in Americanized English for y’all), as well as the new Mazda3 i-stop, which features the automaker’s fuel-saving stop/start system. The i-stop system, combined with Mazda’s MZR 2.0L DISI four-cylinder, deliver 12-percent better city fuel economy and helps drive down the car’s emissions output in the face of the upcoming Euro 5 standards.

The Mazda3 MPS takes the jovial-looking hatchback and gives it a little more of an edge. As you can see, the happy face remains, but it’s now accentuated by a substantial hood scoop, specific grille trim, and round foglamps. Out back, a pronounced roof spoiler, black bumper insert, and dual exhaust tips are visual cues that tip off the car’s performance nature. Power comes, as before, from a turbocharged MZR 2.3-liter DISI four-cylinder, but no specific numbers have been released yet. For that, Mazda’s making us wait. No problem, we’re patient. As always, we’ll bring you full coverage from the floor in Geneva when the festivities get underway.

[Source Mazda]

PRESS RELEASE:
All-new Mazda3 i-stop, Mazda3 MPS to Premiere at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show

Leverkusen, 3 February 2009. Mazda Motor Corporation will debut two new models of the all-new Mazda3 (known as Mazda Axela in Japan) product range at the 2009 Geneva International Motor Show from March 3 through 15, 2009. The world premiere of the Mazda3 with i-stop, Mazda’s advanced fuel-saving start-stop system, will be shared with the all-new Mazda3 MPS, Mazda3′s high performance flagship model. The Mazda3 MPS (Mazdaspeed Axela) now features improved fuel economy and emissions that satisfy Euro Stage 5.

Mazda3 i-stop
The Mazda3 is one of Mazda’s core products, with more than two million units of the first generation produced. The design of the new model has a bolder and more dynamic stance; it is agile and confidence-inspiring, enhancing the sense of oneness between the driver and car. It also has high environmental and safety performance levels, exemplifying Mazda’s Sustainable Zoom-Zoom long-term vision to provide cars that are eco-friendly and safe while still being fun to drive.

The Mazda3 with i-stop embodies Sustainable Zoom-Zoom and adds a new eco-friendly option to the lineup. It features the i-stop system in combination with the MZR 2.0 DISI (Direct Injection Spark Ignition) engine. Together, these two Mazda proprietary technologies help the new model achieve approximately 12 percent lower fuel consumption (urban cycle) than the current European Mazda3. By providing great driving performance as well as top-class fuel economy, the Mazda3 with i-stop is a different type of eco-car that will exceed customer expectations.
Mazda3 MPS
The Mazda3 MPS sport compact pushes Mazda design further and its exciting driving performance perfectly represents Mazda’s Zoom-Zoom spirit. Carrying forward the MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo engine, Mazda3 MPS builds on the popularity and recognition of the previous model. It evolves the driving experience to an entirely new level of quality and pleasure with its emotional design and exhilarating performance.

The all-new Mazda3 Program Manager, Yoshiyuki Maeda, says, “These two models add extra value to an all-new Mazda3 lineup that has already shown strong appeal. The new Mazda3 series takes a significant step ahead in both the realms of driving performance and environmental technology to lead the way toward a new generation of motoring.”

[Source:Autoblog]

The Mazda3 hatchback will be unveiled next week at the Bologna Motor Show, and Mazda has released five photos to help get everyone excited. The Euro backdrop means that the 5-door’s engine lineup will include a 2.2L turbodiesel that’s guaranteed to keep the EU carbon nannies placated. Up front, it wears the same moderately unnerving perma-smile as its sedan brother. Look for more info next week, and feel free to start mentally transforming it into the next Mazdaspeed3. We have.

[Source: Mazda]
PRESS RELEASE:
World Debut for All-New Mazda3 Five-Door Hatchback at the 2008 Bologna Motor Show

HIROSHIMA, Japan: Mazda Motor Corporation will hold the world premiere of the new-generation Mazda3 five-door hatchback at the Bologna Motor Show on December 3, 2008.

The second generation Mazda3 five-door hatchback follows on the heels of the four-door sedan revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

The new-generation Mazda3 five-door hatchback adopts the same characteristics as its sedan counterpart, offering sporty driving and a dynamic design, together with top class environmental and safety performance.

Environmental-friendly qualities were top of mind during development, including efficient powertrains, Mazda typical lightweight engineering and amongst the best-in-class aerodynamics.

All petrol engine versions of the new-generation Mazda3 will offer even further advanced environmental performance, including the world’s first vehicle catalyst to be constructed with single nanotechnology. This new development enables Mazda to reduce its use of scarce resources such as platinum and palladium.

The new engine lineup has been tailored for European customers and now includes the newly developed 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine, just launched in the Mazda6. The new 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine is a high-performance clean diesel powerplant with top class output, fuel economy and refinement.

This new-generation diesel engine has outstanding emissions performance and complies with Euro Stage5 regulations. Fuel economy and CO2 emissions are also greatly improved compared to the current 2.0-litre version.

The all-new Mazda3 five-door hatchback will be revealed during Mazda’s press conference at 09:00am on December 3, 2008 (local time).

[Source:Autoblog]

The redesigned Mazda6 is hitting dealers as we speak, and the Japanese automaker turned to the famous vanguards of style at Troy Lee Designs to tweak one for the SEMA Show in Las Vegas this year. TLD laid down the custom green paint job with help from L&G Enterprises and PPG for the paint itself, while Funktion USA added body mods like the carbon fiber splitter up front and rear wing. Lest you think this tuned Mazda6 is just a show stand prop, it’s also been fitted with 18-inch black Momo Strike wheels, Hoosier tires (nice touch), a custom suspension by Eibach Springs and big brake kit by Wilwood with 6-piston clampers and cross-drilled rotors. There’s no word on whether or not the TLD Mazda6 has any engine upgrades, but it’s not like the stock 3.7L V6 is lacking Zoom-Zoom with its best-in-class 272 horsepower. Check out the official word from Mazda after the jump and our gallery of live, high-res shots from the show floor below.

PRESS RELEASE

The Troy Lee MAZDA6 features custom paint by Troy Lee Designs, with paint prep and detailing by L&G Enterprises, paint material by PPG and body modifications by Funktion USA, to create an exterior design that is truly distinctive. To give the MAZDA6 a high-performance look and feel, 18″ Momo Strike wheels, Hoosier tires and window tinting by A-1 Tinting are added. Suspension modification by Eibach Springs, cross-drilled, 6-piston big brake kit by Wilwood Engineering and custom brake fabrication by JD Performance builds upon MAZDA6′s already superior handling performance.

[Source:Autoblog]