June 9, 2009
If you have never driven on a race track, you should. If your skills are weak, track time will make them better. And if you think you're an undiscovered Tony Stewart, well then, get out there and prove it. The list that follows after the jump gives some ideas where you might try your luck both on the road and in the dirt.
May 26, 2009
Congratulations to Team Eyesore for taking home the win at the 24 Hours of Lemons over the weekend. The pretty-in-pink Miata held together well after some mid-race repairs and went on to scorch of the field of equally hideous crapboxes.
Jalopnik: Eyesore Racing: Winner of the 24 Hours of LeMons Reno-Fernley
May 19, 2009
Inside Line tests hundreds of vehicles a year, but not every vehicle gets a full write-up. The numbers still tell a story, though, so we present "IL Track Tested." It's a quick rundown of all the data we collected at the track, along with comments direct from the test drivers. Enjoy.
What do you get when you cross 34 years of higher education, 10 college degrees and six serious car geeks with a $500 racecar? A pink Miata with Cadillac fins and a nasty turbocharged attitude, of course.
This is Eyesore Racing's entry into this weekend's 24 Hours of LeMons event in Reno, Nevada. You might remember these guys and gals. Their pimp-themed Honda CRX handily won the People's Choice award at last year's LeMons event at Altamont Motorsports Park.
This marks the second appearance for their new car, previously known as the FrankenMiata. Its first run, an impressive 4th overall at the Arse-Freeze-Apalooza last December at Thunderhill Raceway Park in Willows, California, surprised everyone but Team Eyesore.
Since then, the Miata (we use the term loosely) has seen a full, ahem, refresh. That is, the degree-laden fools who build and drive this flaming pink pile slathered it in the sissy hue and gussied it up with some Cadillac fins and taillights. Why? Because they can. And because they like to win. And a Pink Cadillac and Elvis theme seems almost as brilliant as pimps and hos throttling a beat CRX.
Have you ever seen a better looking pair of four-cylinder family sedans? Possibly, but the fact that these two four-doors manage to blend commuter-friendly engines with spacious interiors and top-shelf features makes them two of the most compelling family car choices on the road today.
So which one is the better overall choice? Senior Editor Erin Riches was tasked with finding out and pinning down an answer wasn't easy. Check out the final results and see if you agree in our latest family sedan comparison test.
Comparison: 2009 Mazda 6 vs. 2009 Volkswagen CC
May 14, 2009
Like its predecessor, the 2010 Mazda 3 looks to be one of the safer small cars on the road. Here you can watch NHTSA crash the sedan into a wall for the frontal-impact crash test -- once at full speed and then again in (somewhat) slow-mo.
NHTSA has issued a five-star rating to both the 2010 Mazda 3 sedan and hatchback based on the above crash test. No side-impact ratings, yet, though like almost every passenger car on the road, the 3 gets a four-star rollover rating.
2010 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring Full Test and Video
April 30, 2009
Mazda has now confirmed what Inside Line reported over a month ago. Derek Jenkins, former head of Volkswagen of America's design center, has been named Design Director, Mazda Design Americas.
Jenkins is best known for projects like the Volkswagen GX3 and R-GT concepts.
March 26, 2009
Sources tell Inside Line that Mazda will name Derek Jenkins (above left) as its new head of North American design.
Jenkins currently heads up Volkswagen's California design studio. He's overseen projects like the Volkswagen GX3 and R-GT concepts.
Mazda has been without a design chief since Franz Von Holzhausen left to head up Tesla's design efforts, the fruit of which was just revealed in leaked photos of the Tesla Model S.
March 23, 2009
A race is kind of like a physics test, a high-speed evaluation of automotive machinery. But the best thing about sports car racing is, there isn't just one right answer.
The 12 Hours of Sebring provide a worthwhile reminder, as a surprising number of different exam booklets were submitted for the 57th running of the annual, twelve-hour endurance race in Florida. This road-racing event is part of the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), one of the few racing championships that is about cars, not just money. In comparison, Formula 1 and NASCAR look like one-make spec-car series, where the only way to tell the cars apart is by color and sponsorship decals.
The Audi R15 TDI earned the gold medal in this particular physics test by narrowly winning the race by just 22.279 seconds over the Peugeot 908 HDi FAP with which it had rubbed fenders for virtually the entire 12 hours. But the Acura ARX-02a, BMW M3 GT2, and Lola B09/86-Mazda MZR-R also came up with some interesting answers.
March 20, 2009
More from Mazda at the 2009 New York Auto Show. This one doesn't even count as a North American premiere, however, as the 2010 Mazda CX-7 made its first appearance at the hugely prominent Canadian auto show last month.
Most of the changes for this CX-7 are cosmetic. Both the interior and exterior have been refreshed along with the addition of a few safety enhancements. There is some real news under the hood though as the CX-7 adds a normally-aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder to options list. Hooked to a five-speed automatic transmission, it should provide considerably better mileage than the somewhat thirsty turbocharged motor in the current model.
Mazda announced this morning that it will use the 2009 New York Auto Show to unveil the 2010 Mazdaspeed 3. No big news here really as this hopped up hatchback already appeared at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show as the Mazda MPS.
Most of the changes to the 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 are cosmetic as it continues to use the same turbocharged, direct injection 2.3-liter as before. Final horsepower numbers haven't been released yet, but don't expect them to vary much from the current setup.
Mazda released this photo and a brief description of the mildly revised 2010 CX-9 this morning.
According to the teaser release, the CX-9 "receives an exterior and interior facelift, added options and reinforced safety features, while further improving Zoom-Zoom driving characteristics."
We're not sure what that last part entails, but we'll be sure to get clarification when the 2010 CX-9 makes its debut at the 2009 New York Auto Show next month.
March 3, 2009
Actually, this is officially the 2010 Mazda 3 MPS in Europe, but it's pretty close to what we'll get in the U.S. as the Mazdaspeed 3 later this year.
Like the standard 2010 Mazda 3, the Mazdaspeed version is only lightly updated compared to the previous model. It uses the same turbocharged, direct-injection four-cylinder engine as before and rides on a relatively unchanged front-wheel-drive platform. Horsepower and torque numbers haven't been finalized for the U.S., but don't expect them to change much either.
You may have noticed that this version of the Mazda 3 wears the same overly excited expression as the rest of the lineup. Its front and rear bumpers are unique to the MPS model along with new 18-inch wheels and a revised rear spoiler. It's hardly the toughest-looking hot hatch we've ever seen, but is a Subaru Impreza really any better-looking?
Expect to see the final U.S.-spec version of the 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 on sale this fall. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
Full gallery after the jump.
February 19, 2009
This could be a problem.
More after the jump.
February 17, 2009
The 2010 Mazda 3 will start at $15,045 when equipped with a manual transmission the company announced this morning. For those who care, that's $355 more than the previous base model Mazda 3.
The most expensive of the base 2.0-liter models, and also the highest volume model, is the "I Touring" and it gets a new price of $18,350, which is again $355 more than the 2009 model.
Step up to the burly 2.3-liter model and you're looking at spending $19,540 for an automatic-equipped "s Sport" Mazda 3. That's $455 more than the previous model. The top-of-the-line Grand Sport model gets a similar bump to a base price of $22,300. Sales are expected to begin in March.
February 4, 2009
Although the photos of the 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 were the much bigger deal, Mazda also announced yesterday that a fuel-miser Mazda 3 i-stop model would be in its booth at next month's 2009 Geneva Auto Show. On the surface, this might not seem very relevant to us, given that idle-stop features are showing up in more and more European-market cars as manufacturers try to comply with tightening EU CO2 standards.
But shutting off the engine at traffic lights doesn't yield a huge fuel mileage benefit (2-3 percent was the number cited when we drove a thusly equipped 2009 Mini Cooper S convertible). So the more significant efficiency change on this Mazda 3 i-stop is likely its direct-injected, 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder engine (MZR 2.0 DISI).
Mazda hasn't released horsepower or torque figures, but they've got to be a little higher than the 148 hp and 135 lb-ft of torque provided by the normally fuel-injected version in our 2010 Mazda 3.
February 3, 2009
We wish there was more to tell you about the 2010 Mazdaspeed 3, but all we have is this crummy photo and what Mazda refers to as a teaser release. Well, it doesn't tease much really as it merely confirms the Geneva debut of the Mazdaspeed 3 that we've been anticipating for some time now.
It does mention that the turbocharged 2.3-liter MZR four-cylinder engine has been "carried forward" so don't expect any big horsepower upgrades. Then again, it already has 263 horses as it is, so more power isn't what it needed. Less "happiness" up front would have been nice, but it appears as though the styling changes are minimal too.
Update: Added additional photos.
January 14, 2009
Autoblog is reporting today that the 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 is rumored to debut at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show. We subsequently spoke with Mazda's director of corporate and product communications, Jeremy Barnes, who said, "I cannot confirm that."
However, given that the 2007 Mazdaspeed 3/MPS debuted at the 2006 Geneva show, we'd say it's very, very likely that we'll see the second-gen hot hatch in the Mazda booth come early March.
January 12, 2009
#DAS09 The saccharin-infused happiness on the 2010 Mazda 3's face makes us uncomfortable. Yet, when the car, in this case the 2010 Mazda 3 five-door hatchback, is parked next to an RX-8, it almost looks fine. Apparently, all Mazdas are super-smiley and we hadn't realized.
Of course, the Mazda 3 hatch looks even better from other angles. We're not sure we like the rising beltline that resembles the subcompact Mazda 2's, but the detailing on the tail looks great. So the 3 hatchback still looks better than the sedan. And as in the past, the hatchback comes standard with the larger of the U.S.-spec 3's two four-cylinder engines -- this time a 2.5-liter good for 167 hp. Nothing's changed really. -- Erin Riches, Senior Editor
January 7, 2009
You may have already seen the sales totals for December, and 2008 as a whole. If not, here's a summary: not good. For a more detailed look, check out the industry wide 2008 sales analysis over at AutoObserver.
We assembled something a little different though. Instead of assessing the big picture, we looked at the sales numbers for individual models. Which new models flopped, which old models recovered, that sort of thing. Some of the results we expected, others were a little more eye opening. See for yourself after the jump.
December 31, 2008
Osamu Suzuki, president of Suzuki Motors, is quite worried as to what the Detroit domino effect may have on the smaller Japanese brands.
His feeling is that it could result in fewer Japanese car manufacturers. Smaller brands like Suzuki, Subaru, Mitsubishi, Mazda and Isuzu could be impacted in a way in which they may not survive; at least as we currently know them, or at all.
Says Suzuki: "There is a time-lag between what is happening with the Big Three US carmakers and the impact that will have in Japan. It is as if tsunami waves are rolling toward Japanese shores. I believe a real wave will hit us around July or August next year, with car sales hitting rock bottom."
He went on to say that the world was "entering a period in which more than ten Japanese carmakers could be consolidated into a Japan Big Three."
Related story here: Toyota and Honda looking at tweaking supply lines (here) to avoid possible disruptions.
November 26, 2008
Hey Insiders,
You've added some new cars to your Inside Line search list. Here are some links to the goods.
2010 Subaru Legacy
On Deck: Redesigned 2010 Subaru Legacy
Audi S5
Inside Line has a full test on the 2008 Audi S5
And also tested the S5 Coupe against the BMW M3 Coupe
There will be more news on the Audi S5 next week. So stay tuned.
2010 Ford Taurus
We have spy video and photo on the new Taurus
Caught in Dearborn: 2010 Ford Taurus Prototypes
Volkswagen CC
Earlier this year, IL drove the 2009 Volkswagen CC
IL News reported on some steering issues with the CC
Volkswagen Recalls 2009 CC
And the VW CC Performance Concept was at the 2008 SEMA Show
Mazda 3
Inside Line has a First Drive on the 2010 Mazda 3
And the 2010 Mazda 3 was at the L.A. Auto Show
Have a Happy Thanksgiving. Be safe.
Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor
November 25, 2008
Undisguised images of the all-new Mazda3 hatch have made their way to the Net. The car will make a world debut at the Bologna Motor Show next month. I would expect a U.S. debut to occur with one of the upcoming shows.
Speaking of the Mazda3, this car will be offered with a $500 in-dash NAVI option. This is great news, as other carmakers will surely be forced to drop their prices on this cash-cow option.
Here's Inside Line's take: 2008 Bologna Auto Show: 2010 Mazda 3 Hatchback Revealed
November 19, 2008
Only minor tweaks exist under the skin of the new Mazda3. But the new sedan -- despite being 3.3 inches longer -- looks more aggressive than the car it replaces. The big news is the car's styling. To our eyes the current sedan never looked as sharp as the five-door -- subtle differences to every panel added up to a much different-looking machine.
Seriously.
Everything else you want to know about the new Mazda 3 can be found here.
Josh Jacquot, Senior Road Test Editor
November 18, 2008
First GM sells their stake in Suzuki, and now Ford has announced that they plan to sell two-thirds of their stake in Mazda. As with the GM sale, Ford is scrambling to find cash.
Ford, currently owns 33.4% of Mazda, which is a controlling interest. This sale is about a 20% stake. This would net Ford $540 million based on Mazda's closing price today, which is barely a quarter of what a 20% stake in the Japanese automaker was worth one year ago. Mazda's shares rose 6.4% to 184 yen today amid media reports of a coming sale.
November 5, 2008
Mazda is showing two modified 2009 Mazda 6 sedans at its North Hall booth at the 2008 SEMA Show. The mods on both are primarily cosmetic, but I'm kind of drawn to the Mazda 6 penned by Troy Lee Motorsports. It also has Eibach springs and an upgraded brake kit, including cross-drilled rotors with six-piston calipers up front. The black wheels are from Momo.
Others were drawn to the Troy Lee Mazda 6, too. Could it have been the opportunity to have their photo taken with "Miss Mazda"? For the record, I declined the offer...
The other 2009 Mazda 6 on the stand is the work of David Green and goes by the name Green Energy. It has 19-inch Volk Rays wheels but otherwise it's fairly subtle. Still, both cars are a lot closer to something I'd want to lay eyes on every day -- in stock form, the 2009 Mazda 6 doesn't quite do it for me.
Erin Riches, Senior Editor
October 30, 2008
Finally a bit of good news coming from the automotive sector. Both Mazda and Mitsubishi have posted gains. They're only "slight" gains, but, hey... we'll take whatever we can get, right?
For the first time in six years, Mitsubishi Motors Corp. said it moved back into the black during the April-September period. Also, the surging yen limited Mazda to a modest gain in profit.
"The global financial crisis is impacting the automobile industry as seen in a weakening of consumer confidence and in the effects of the credit crunch," Mitsubishi said in a statement.
"It is clear that there will be a significant drop in overall demand in the mature economies of Europe and North America and also that there will be a slowdown in the economies of many of the emerging nations that have until recently have been relatively buoyant."
Image: Mazda Motor Corp. President and Chief Executive Hisakazu Imaki / KATSUMI KASAHARA/Associated Press
October 23, 2008
For Mazda3 fans, the upcoming LA show is both good news and bad news. The good is that the all-new Mazda3 will debut. The bad news is the all-new Mazdaspeed3 will be MIA.
Not sure exactly when the new Speed3 will debut (could be next year?), so in the meantime some teaser spy photos will just have to do.
Here's Inside Line's take: Spy Photos: Future Mazdaspeed 3
October 21, 2008
It's well known that racing has contributed heavily to the design and engineering of vehicles that you and I drive. With that thought in mind the LA Auto Show will feature a display of what future race cars might be like in 2025, what they may offer in terms of technology and safety; and ultimately, how that might be applied to ordinary cars sometime in the future.
The designs are part of the fifth annual Los Angeles Auto Show's Design Challenge, where studios including Audi, BMW, GM, Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota and Volkswagen are pitted against each other to showcase their talents and further explore new ideas in automotive design.
Here's Inside Line's take: 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show: Mind-Blowing Motorsports Concepts Rev Up 2025 Design Challenge
October 13, 2008
Hot on the heels of a possible GM-Chrysler tie-up is a story that Ford might sell Mazda. Desperate times, desperate actions indeed...
"We're looking at a lot of different things with liquidity in mind," said one person close to the situation. "But things are changing week to week, and I don't know if anything is going to happen or not. Nothing is imminent or definitive."
Ford spokesman Mark Truby states the following: "Our relationship with Mazda remains unchanged." No surprise there. Until something is definite, don't expect anything of any substance to come from either party.
October 9, 2008
Zoom-Zoom-Smile...
Interesting. It looks like Mazda has discovered the happy face (as opposed to Mitsubishi's angry face) as the new look for their cars. We saw it first on the facelifted Miata, and now again on the 2010 Mazda 3. The new car will debut at the LA auto show, and will be available with both 2.0L and 2.5L engines.
Here's Inside Line's take: 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show Preview: Beefier 2010 Mazda 3 Sedan Set for Debut
October 2, 2008
The debut of the Mazda Kiyora took eco-boasting to new highs -- or lows, depending on your prospective. Among its numerous and highly suspicious-sounding features: roof rails that channel rainwater into an onboard purification system which then feeds water bottles between the front seats, a dashboard partially made of carbon for scrubbing the incoming air of toxins, and an onboard CO2 meter that delivers a real-time estimation of the Kiyora's carbon footprint.
Back on Planet Earth, the Kiyora would be powered by a 1.3-liter gasoline engine connected to a six-speed automatic. The engine's use of direct injection, dual sequential valve timing and variable valve lift make it one of Mazda's most efficient engines ever. There's also a Smart Idle Stop system that shuts down the engine at stoplights and an advanced catalytic converter that uses nanotechnology to filter even the smallest particles from the exhaust. The Kiyora is also surprisingly small, with an overall length that's nearly 4 inches shorter than the subcompact Mazda 2.
Oh, did we forget the Nagare design details? Yes, it has all those, too, but we were over that stuff after the first three concepts. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
September 10, 2008
Mazda has a couple of new tricks up their sleeve, and will share them with the public beginning in 2009.
The first is a new Clean Diesel, that displaces 2.2L. This new diesel has a DPF (diesel particulate filter) that has a better way of removing soot from exhaust gases. Mazda engineers claim this new catalyst activation mechanism is a world first and lets the engine burn off particulates about 60 percent faster. In addition, it also has improved fuel injectors and a lower compression ratio than the existing Mazda 2.0-liter diesel, as well as also improving fuel efficiency. The new engine makes a maximum 182 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque (Wow! That's a whole bunch of power for a diesel of this size!). Its fuel economy is claimed to be 42 miles per gallon.
The new Smart Idle System (SISS and pictured above) improves fuel economy by "around ten percent" in urban areas, based on results in Japan's 10-15 mode tests. The SISS shuts the vehicle down automatically when the car is stationary. Rather than restarting the engine normally, the SISS uses direct-injection technology, injecting fuel directly into the cylinder while the engine is stopped and then igniting it to generate downward piston force, to restart after a shutdown.
Here's Inside Line's take: Tech Watch: Mazda Introduces New Clean Diesel and "Smart" Idle System
September 4, 2008
Mazda will debut their Kiyora concept at the upcoming Paris Auto Show. The styling follows the flowing (think folded drapery) theme found on all recent Mazda concepts. Other than having a "next-generation" direct injection 4-cylinder engine, not much is known about what's under the skin.
Here's Inside Line's take: 2008 Paris Auto Show Preview: Mazda Kiyora Concept
Carscoop (via Km77.com, a Spanish web site) has nabbed a couple of images of the next Miata refresh.
The new front end is daring, for sure. To be honest, I don't care for it. I much prefer the current model. No word yet on other changes. The car should be officially announced soon.Full story here.
September 1, 2008
Mazda has been making some pretty impressive cars of late, however, some may think their "greenness" may be a bit on the thin side. That could change as word is leaking out that Mazda may be working on a car that could give the Chevy Volt a run for its money. Unlike the Volt--and every other hybrid vehicle to date--is that this Mazda could well use a rotary engine to recharge the batteries. Can you say, "ZAP-ZAP?"
August 27, 2008
Mazda deputed their Kazamai concept at the Moscow Auto Show. It's yet another example of their Nagare theme that their designers have been exploring.
Perhaps even more bizarre than this car is Mazda's latest tagline: "Sustainable Zoom-Zoom." Okay. Now can someone please tell me what the heck that is supposed to mean? And as to what does "Kazamai" mean? Try "swirling crosswinds." I think I need a drink.Full story here.Here's Inside Line's take: 2008 Moscow Auto Show Preview: Mazda Kazamai Concept
August 6, 2008
If AutoExpress is to be believed, the next-generation Mazda rotary sports car may use both gas and hydrogen.
As with virtually modern powerplant decisions, fuel economy and lower emissions are behind this. The rumor goes on to say that hydrogen would be primarily used in city driving, with an expected 20-percent gain in fuel economy. The bad news is that you can expect about a 20-percent loss in power as well.Full story here.
July 15, 2008
Mazda has released images of their Kazamai concept, which is to be shown at the Moscow auto show. "Kazamai," which means "swirling crosswinds" in Japanese, is the latest execution of their Nagare design language.
Some automotive pundunts are speculating that this could hint a new CUV that would be smaller than the CX7.
Here's Inside Line's take: 2008 Moscow Auto Show Preview: Mazda Kazamai Concept
July 2, 2008
June 30, 2008
Spy shots of a heavily masked next-gen Mazda3 have surfaced over on UK's AutoExpress. They've also included a rendering of what they think it might look like. If they're anywhere near being accurate, it looks to be an evolution of the current model in terms of styling direction. No doubt the the mechanicals will get a good going over, but no word on that yet...
April 25, 2008
Mazda has released some images and some info on the 2009 Mazda6. The American version is reportedly a bit larger than the global model and will be built in Flat Rock, MI. Base powerplant will be a 2.5L 4-cylinder, hooked up to either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic. The upmarket V6 will be a 3.7L unit, and will come only with a 6-speed automatic with manumatic shifting...
April 1, 2008
Edmunds.com is conducting another consumer comparison test.
We want you to test-drive these 2008 economy sedans:
Honda Civic, Mazda MAZDA3, Mitsubishi Lancer, Toyota Corolla
Just like our last consumer test, we will send you to Willow Springs Raceway in California where you'll get to test the cars in a number of situations.
All you have to do is write an essay telling us why we should choose you. Make it good because competition will be stiff...
March 4, 2008
No longer is it seen as environmentally responsible to toss around terms like "zoom-zoom" in the cavalier manner typical of, say, 2001. Now it's "sustainable zoom-zoom," and says James Muir, CEO of Mazda Motors Europe, that means a "focus on the minute and painstaking weight reduction of every component."
Sounds painful, but on the 2009 Mazda 2 three-door hatchback (which joins the previously released five-door), it's good for a 220-pound weight reduction over the previous model, says Muir. For a car that's 153.5 inches long (2 inches shorter than a Honda Fit) with a 98-inch wheelbase (1.5 inches longer than a Fit), this is quite significant.
Mazda broke up what could have been a rather dry, number-y press conference with a performance by the Infidels, who like the Strokes, come across as a modern-day repackaging of the Stones -- right down to their moves on stage. Mazda, conveniently, is sponsoring their 2008 European tour.
February 27, 2008
We’ve seen the Mazda 6 that the rest of the world will get before, now the check out the 2009 Mazda 6 that’s headed for the U.S. Caught during a logistical swap in the Detroit area, this Mazda 6 looks like a full production spec model right down to its odd looking headlights. The rear end isn’t so bad, although it looks as though it uses a pair of exhaust “covers” like the Lexus IS-F. Hopefully we’re wrong on that one...
January 14, 2008
Shockingly enough, Mazda did not want to spend much time today talking about the 2009 RX-8. Details on its new front fascia were left unsaid, and the new R3 sport package that adds Bilstein shocks, Recaro seats and urethane-filled suspension crossmembers was barely mentioned. So when a Mazda official told us after the press conference that the car was also 45 pounds lighter than before we were skeptical. Turns out the optional 19-inch wheels that come with the R3 package are actually lighter than the stock 18s. And apparently those Recaro seats are much lighter than stock. Combined with the new shorter rear end gear, this RX-8 might actually feel new from behind the wheel. That would have been worth talking about. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
The blond and photogenic Franz Von Holzhausen, Mazda's North American design chief, had the pleasure of "driving" the Mazda Furai concept onto the stage during the press conference today in Detroit. (For most of the show, the Furai sat uncovered, but the company whisked it out of sight just before its official debut.)
Von Holzhausen revved the mid-mounted, three-rotor 20B rotary engine before disembarking, commenting, "It sounds good, doesn't it?"
Indeed. As we reported in our full article on the Furai, this concept sports car is built on a racecar chassis from the American Le Mans Series. It's fully driveable, and the engine develops some 450 horsepower.
January 13, 2008
Well, the back-slapping inside Cobo's Michigan Hall threatened to drown out the impeding stampede that will introduce the all-new Dodge Ram later today. Chevrolet's Malibu scored the 2008 North American Car of the Year award, giving GM a repeat of last year's excitement over the Saturn Aura's win. When one considers that these two cars are nearly identical from a structural standpoint that's either fitting or foolish. Regardless, a beaming Ed Peper and Bob Lutz embraced the throngs of reporters rushing to get the latest sound bytes from these high-ranking GM execs...
December 28, 2007
Mazda will show their latest expression of their new Nagare (pronounced na-ga-reh) Design Language in a concept vehicle called the Furai at the Detroit Auto Show. Nagare is Japanese for "flow and the embodiment of motion." Others may see folding drapery (or the morbidly obese, depending on your point of view) .
The Furai (pronounced foo-RYE) is built upon a 2005 Courage C65 chassis, and hints at the fact that Mazda may re-enter endurance racing at some point. If you recall, they won Le Mans in 1991...
December 14, 2007
This could be a big year for the General at the Detroit Auto Show, as they have secured four of the six contender slots for the 2008 North American Car and Truck of the Year. The Chevy Malibu and Cadillac CTS will face off against the Honda Accord for 2008 North American Car of the Year award; and the Buick Enclave, Chevy Tahoe Hybrid will take on the Mazda CX9 for 2008 North American Truck of the Year award. The winners will be announced at the NAIAS in Detroit.
So, what do you think are the chances of GM sweeping these awards?
My first thought is that I think we really do need a new
definition of what a "truck" is, as I sure don't consider the Enclave
or CX9 trucks; but that's an entirely different discussion...
December 12, 2007
With the Detroit Auto Show coming up fast and furious, expect to see a bunch of teaser images from various carmakers over the next couple of weeks. Straightline posted about the Hummer HX concept yesterday, and now Mazda has offered up an image of their Furai concept. Expect it to continue with Mazda's new nagare ("flow") design, which we've seen at recent car shows.
2008 Detroit Show Preview: Mazda Furai
December 11, 2007
We've added a 2008 Mazda CX-9 to our long-term fleet.
With seating for seven and a fun-to-drive manner, the CX-9 could be the new modern family alternative to a minivan.
What do you think?
Read the Mazda CX-9 Introduction on Inside Line.
Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor
December 10, 2007
These are the first shots of the 2010 Mazda RX-8. Obviously this test mule isn’t all that different from the current RX-8, but it appears as though a new front end is on the way at the very least. We’re not expecting big changes for Mazda’s rotary-powered sportscar, so the minimal camouflage isn’t much of a surprise. Mazda's designers are currently working on a new face of Mazda which will be applied across the lineup starting with the 2009 Mazda 3...
November 30, 2007
If your a fan of MazdaSpeed, or a fan of Mutts Motorsports, or just want to help out with the care of homeless animals, you may want to check this out.
Running from December 1 – 11, and with the help of AutoWeek and others, there will be an online auction, in which you will get an opportunity to bid on items from this year's Mutts Motorsports team. Hey, who wouldn't want a driver's suit from Randy Pobst or Jeff Altenburg, or the hood from one of their race cars, or any other of the neat stuff being auctioned off?
The auction will be held here.
October 24, 2007
We've made much of the Taiki's crazy rear wheels in previous stories about the concept. And, after seeing them in person here at the Tokyo show, we still think they're crazy. But we will not go there again. Besides we've run out of silly comparisons (shopping-cart casters, training wheels, etc, etc)...
While it's several months out, and we still have Tokyo, SEMA and the LA shows to do, the folks running the Detroit show have let loose with some teaser info regarding this January event.
From the NAIAS October newsletter:
Ford will unveil a new small concept vehicle for the U.S. market that will share the underbody with a concept that Ford unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The Ford Verve (rendering pictured above), revealed in Frankfurt, is a crossover vehicle carried on a small B-segment platform...
October 13, 2007
In the chase for the championship, drivers Jeff Altenburg and Randy Pobst have been pushing each other all season long. After eight races in the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship, they are first and second in points with two wins each. For the final two races, each will have a new teammate as the Tri-Point Motorsports team has adopted ‘Earl’ and ‘Mooch,’ the beloved "MUTTS" comic strip characters, to ride along. Jeff, Randy, ‘Earl’, and ‘Mooch’ have joined forces with The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) in their efforts to promote the adoption of shelter animals. The blue and white Tri-Point MAZDA6s will be carrying unique graphics for the Road Atlanta and Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca events. Jeff will be racing with ‘Earl’ the dog, while Randy will have ‘Mooch’ the cat as his driving muse.
Fans of the "MUTTS" comic strip are familiar with the annual “Shelter Stories,” a week of strips focusing on the plight of shelter animals. This program will, in essence, speed up the message to 160mph.
Life-sized versions of ‘Earl’ and ‘Mooch’ will be making paddock appearances at both races, making for some fun photo opportunities for families.
“When the idea first came to us, we thought it sounded like a fun way to share the important message of adopting shelter animals. The "MUTTS" characters are favorites for many of us on the team. The hardest part was in getting Jeff and Randy to decide who would have ‘Mooch’ and who would have ‘Earl’ on their car,” laughed Craig Nagler, team owner for Tri-Point Motorsports.
“With so much of the recent athlete animal-related headlines in recent months being unfortunately bad news, it’s a delight for The Humane Society of The United States to work with Randy and Jeff, who both understand and believe in helping animals,” noted Michael Markarian, Executive Vice President for The HSUS.
“In my daily comic strip, MUTTS, I have always promoted the adopting of pets from local shelters. With the help of the Mazda Team, Earl and Mooch are now conveying this important message at top speed!” added cartoonist Patrick McDonnell.
The promotion will not end at the checkered flag. After the season concludes, the hoods from both cars, the Sparco driver suits, and other souvenirs will be signed by the drivers and auctioned off to benefit The HSUS. Details will be posted here in late October, allowing plenty of time for holiday wrapping for that special motorsports and/or “MUTTS” enthusiast.
Image above: ‘Earl’ & ‘Mooch’ from “MUTTS” Zoom-Zoom for The Humane Society of the United States
October 3, 2007
Mazda will be displaying this wild looking Taiki concept at the Tokyo Auto Show later this month. Under the skin is reportedly the next-generation rotary engine. The new RENESIS rotary engine dubbed the 16X, a twin rotor unit sending
drive to the rear wheels. It that features a longer stroke and a larger
displacement 1.6L (800cc x 2) design...
October 1, 2007
Okay all you would-be car designers, here's your chance to see if you got what it takes. Mazda is giving you an opportunity to design a future Mazda3. The winning selection will be shown at the upcoming LA auto show.
Oh...
September 11, 2007
Mazda introduced the Mazda 6 with the accompaniment of a vast array of talented musicians. Once of them, whom we'll call Tambourine Boy, bopped and leaped around in a frenzy, like a Michael Flatly from Lord of the Dance on amphetamines.
Tambourine Boy scared me, partly because his antics were wholly unnecessary. The Mazda 6 looks flat-out great and needs no such forced hoopla. Here's a car with true grace...
September 6, 2007
Mazda will debut this snappy new Mazda 6 at the Frankfurt auto show. Like the popular Mazda 3, this is a very good-looking car and should prove to be another winner for Mazda.
When it hits Stateside, expect a 3.5L V6 as well as a base four-cylinder model. Early reports say the car will weigh less than the outgoing model and will emit less pollutants...
August 30, 2007
The 2007 Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 by Mazdaspeed Accessories. I'm out of breath just typing it.
This factory-tuned version of the turbocharged Mazdaspeed 3 showcases its aftermarket parts catalog.
Read the Mazdaspeed 3 Full Test on Inside Line...
August 7, 2007
Mazda is expected to debut an all-new Mazda6 at the upcoming Frankfurt auto show next month. As the head-on shot shows, it will carry over current styling cues. I would expect it to be a bit larger and more powerful, as well as build upon current Mazda6 attributes such as Zoom-Zoom driving.
Full story here...
August 6, 2007
In this corner, the Subaru Impreza WRX. In that corner, the Mazdaspeed 3.
Two quick and feisty sport compacts go head to head...
July 24, 2007
Good news for Japanese auto brands Honda, Nissan, Toyota, Mazda and Mitsubishi as Riken Corp's factory that was damage in the earthquake last week has resumed production.
Economy Minister Hiroko Ota said that she did not expect the production stoppages to have a long-term impact on Japan's auto industry.
"If they can make up production over the next year, I don't see a major impact. Still, there will be a short-term one," she told reporters at a regular press conference...
July 20, 2007
Good news for Japanese auto dealers here in North America, as early reports indicate that the massive earthquake earlier this week in Japan won't disrupt deliveries here.
"We have inventories for exports," said Honda spokeswoman Yasuko Matsuura. "We expect to be able to make up for lost production by the time we ship cars overseas."
"I don't see a massive impact from this, and if anything it's likely to have a bigger effect on products for the domestic Japanese market," said analyst Catherine Madden, who studies automakers' production plans for Global Insight Inc. in Lexington, Massachusetts...
June 13, 2007
Subarus have long been noted for their safety, but it appears the new 2008 Impreza has just moved the bar a notch higher. The rear doors have an additional "catch" down low to help prevent a cave-in under hard impact.
The Mazda3 also has similar feature, and I've heard it may also be found on recent Subaru Legacys and Outbacks. It's good to see these types of items usually found on more expensive brands trickle down to lower priced vehicles...
May 31, 2007
On May 30, 1967, Mazda sold their first dual-rotor RE car, the Cosmo Sport. While not the very first rotary-powered car (that was the NSU Wankel Spider in 1964), it was the first rotary-powered car ushered in rotary engines for the masses.
Well, somewhat small masses, but masses nonetheless... Think of this Mazda rotary as sort of the Model T of rotary-powered cars, in that Mazda—unlike NSU—was able to move this engine concept beyond that of being a mere engineering oddity into something that had a real-world application, and that many could benefit from...
March 14, 2007
Mazda is working a rotary engine that runs on either hydrogen or gas. It's your choice, and it's with a flip of a switch. In fact they have delivered one to the Japan Automobile Research Institute (JARI) for further evaluation.
Mazda has been independently developing hydrogen cars with rotary engines in an effort to help promote an environmentally friendly society...
March 7, 2007
Could this unusual-looking crossover ever reach production?
In anticipation of Europe’s growing desire for small C-segment SUVs, Mazda’s European Design Centre developed the Hakaze, a four-seat, coupelike compact crossover that rides on a shortened version of the CX-7 platform. According to Peter Birtwhistle, chief designer at the Centre, the Hakaze’s athletic styling is supposed to help smooth over the generally negative social reaction to driving SUVs in Europe.
Drawing once again on the design language called Nagare — which in Japanese means “flow” or “the embodiment of movement” — the Hakaze is definitely pushing the envelope, demonstrating a vitality of purpose that could invigorate the direction of Ford’s family of small cars...
March 6, 2007
What we hate most about European car shows is reporting on a cool car that isn’t coming to the States. We’d been hoping that Mazda would be bringing its stylishly cool, all-new Mazda2 hatchback to America, but those hopes were dashed when we were told it just wasn’t time for the company to enter the subcompact fray in the U.S. One explanation was a lack of production capacity — the second-generation Mazda2 is expected to be extremely popular in Europe and Asia and there just wouldn’t be enough left over for the Americans — but our suspicious minds couldn’t help but think that parent company Ford is holding off the Mazda2 until Ford’s version of this shared chassis is ready to be unleashed as the next Fiesta. Or it could just be a case of waiting for the market to get hip to the appeal of a sporty little subcompact...
March 2, 2007
Ford has announced that it will offer a new subcompact based on the Mazda2.
This good new for two reasons: One, Ford needs to be in this market to attract a younger crowd into their showrooms; and two, the Mazda2 is a great little car, so it should be a win-win for Ford here.
The news comes as Ford CEO Alan Mulally is in Japan this week meeting with executives of Mazda Motor Corp., which is controlled by Ford.
"I fully expect the deep ties between Ford and Mazda to extend into the future and become even stronger," Mulally said in news release earlier this week...
February 13, 2007
The small hatch market continues to heat up with the announcement from Mazda of their new Mazda2. I think it should do well, as I see it as one of the sharper entries in this market slot. We may see it here in either 2008 or 2009. The car will be introduced at the Geneva Motor Show...
January 8, 2007
We're into the recycling thing as much as the next L.A. greenie, but someone should tell Mazda it doesn't work so well for concept cars. After showing the Nagare at the L.A. auto show in November, Mazda showed up at Detroit with the Ryuga concept, which looked well…just like the Nagare.
December 15, 2006
Despite being a little rough around the edges, the Pontiac Solstice over the last 11 months, has outsold the Zoom-Zoom Miata. To date Pontiac has moved 18,361 Solstices to Mazda's 15,873 Miatas. So stunning styling is a victor over a decade-plus of refinement.
So a big "Congrats!" goes to the Pontiac boys...
November 29, 2006
Nagare is the first example of the design direction for the next generation of Mazda. By definition, Nagare means "flow" and that's exactly what the body lines are all about. From the swooping door panels to the cascading fenders to the co-molded tire-on-wheel design this car embodies the style of its design team.
When push comes to shove, nothing represents style and "flow" like the clothes on our backs...
November 20, 2006
Here's what this week's issue of Automotive News featured in terms of future vehicle news:
-- Chrysler has stopped work on the next generation Pacifica. No official word has been made, but supplier sources say the program is dead. Instead of another Pacifica, AN is speculating that Chrysler will build an all-new crossover on the platform used for the new Sebring. Combined with the replacement for the PT Cruiser, tentatively dubbed "PV Cruiser", Chrysler would have two crossovers to cover the growing market segment...
November 7, 2006
The folks at Autoblog have found some images of the redesigned Tribute.
Now before you get all excited that Mazda has done another Zoom-Zoom all-new design, be forewarned that this new(?) vehicle merely completes the Escape/Mariner/Tribute triptych.
Think another Ford Ranger/Mazda B-Series-like deal here, and you pretty much have the full story here; badge engineering at its very best (or very worst depending on your point of view).
So how does this fit in with the CX7/CX9?..
October 6, 2006
According to Nikkei Business, Mazda will be developing their own hybrid; and this perhaps without the aid of FoMoCo. It sounds like Mazda is preparing to distance themselves from troubled Ford. With all that's happened in the past year, many auto industry experts don't expect the existing relationship that Mazda has with Ford to remain as is.
So, another subplot develops...
September 22, 2006
Inside Line has a "First Drive" up on the new Mazda CX-9.
According to the editors at Inside Line, the standard 3rd-row seat is easily accessible, in that their 6' 2" tester had no problems entering or exiting. While there is no specific mention of 3rd-row seat comfort and space while occupied, reading between the lines, it suggests that this may not be an issue, as it is being mentioned as an alternative to the ubiquitous minivan. If that's true, then this is a real breakthrough for midsize SUVs, as most of those models have 3rd-row seats that are only kid-friendly...
September 12, 2006
Mazda has announced that no vehicles on ill-fated Cougar Ace cargo ship will be sold as new cars. Most of the 4,700+ vehicles are damaged beyond repair. However, those that can be repaired may be sold as used cars...
Snippet: We're pleased to see that Mazda is handling this the right way...
August 29, 2006
I've reported here a couple of times (here and here) on the Cougar Ace, which was severely listing to one side off shore of Alaska. The ship was full of Mazda vehicles heading to North America. The ship is now nearly up right. Here's the latest update...
August 18, 2006
That's Power Retractable Hard Top, and I will admit I'm pleasantly surprised. At first, I had wondered why the world's most exquisitely easy-to-use convertible top needed the complication of power operation and steel panels, but that turns out to be the wrong way to think of it. Rather, the 2007 MX-5 with its new and cleverly engineered folding roof is like bringing along the detachable hardtop option that Miatas have long offered, but being able to jump between that and the topless configuration with the touch of a button. Very cool.
August 16, 2006
It's that time of the year again; back to school time... If you've got a third-grader, you're probably thinking about note books and pencils. If you have a kid in high school you might be thinking about clothes or a computer—or at least your kid is. If you're shipping your offspring off to college, besides everything else he or she needs, maybe a cheap but reliable car is also on the list?..
August 14, 2006
Just got back from participating in a Mazda Zoom-Zoom LIVE! event at FedEx Field just outside Washington, DC. I've been to a number of these kinds of events by various automakers there before, including last year's Mazda Zoom-Zoom LIVE! event. I must say this year's version was much better than last year's event...
If you recall, the cargo ship Cougar Ace carrying Mazda vehicles capsized a few weeks ago off the coast of Alaska. Well, here's the latest update and status of that ship. It's now securely moored in Wide Bay, as crews work to pump water out of the ship.
The ship has more than 4,800 vehicles on board, and is listing about 80 degrees to its port side...
August 5, 2006
More carmakers are getiing on the iPod bandwagon. Apple Computer is working with GM, Ford and Mazda to integrate the iPod into their audio systems.
Snippet: Carmakers say they are responding to a booming trend in which sales of iPods and other MP3 players are predicted to more than double, from 58 million units in 2005 to 132 million in 2009.
The iPod holds about a 75 percent share of the portable player market in the United States...
July 27, 2006
A cargo vessel carrying 4700 Mazdas is foundering in rough seas off the coast of Alaska. Most of the vehicles on board are the high-demand Mazda3 and the new CX7 SUV. The value of the cars is estimated to be about $117.5 million.
Snippet: The U.S...
July 18, 2006
Last month I posted about the upcoming Mazda MX5 with a folding hardtop. At that time the only images available were of the roof in a semi-open position. Here we now have images of the vehicle with the roof up and down. The vehicle has just debuted at the British International Motor Show...
June 20, 2006
Mazda will debut the long-rumored MX5 with the folding hardtop at the British International Motor Show. It reportedly adds about 75 pounds and will cost around $2K. One good thing is that it doesn't eat up too much room in the trunk, unlike other folding hardtops.
More info here...
June 8, 2006
Outside a Mexican restaurant near Mazda's US headquarters we spied this Mazdaspeed 3 looking ready for the showroom. It's just getting final engineering and QA sign-off before they push the production button. We had a full rundown on this hot little runner in our Geneva Show coverage, but as a reminder, Mazda has stuffed the 2.3 turbo engine from its bigger Mazdaspeed 6 sedan into the tidy 3 body. A classic hot-rodding engine swap!..
May 8, 2006
Mazda is winding down production of their MPV minivan. The new CX-9, while not a direct replacement, likely will find a larger audience than the mini-MPV minivan was ever able to capture.
I've long felt that the American family by and large does not like small minivans. Sales of these smaller models have never been good...
April 26, 2006
I had a chance to finally sit in the new CX-7 at the NY auto show last week. It's not as roomy as you might expect for a vehicle that sports a 108" wheelbase. You can thank the extreme rake of the windshield for that. This forces the front seats rearward, which in turn cuts down on rear passenger room...
April 13, 2006
Roomy and powerful. Get the full story on the seven-passenger 2007 Mazda CX-9 with five photos from the show floor.
Right after the CX-9 introduction, Mazda's Robert Davis introduced the Mazdaspeed 3. This was the North American debut, as the world debut took place at the Geneva show.
Davis went on to say: "The Mazdaspeed 3 will be ripping streets new potholes later this year."
Submitted by Bryan Glickman; Senior Producer, Broadband
After a brief corporate heads-up, Jim O'Sullivan, President and CEO of Mazda North American Operations, introduced Robert Davis, Senior Vice President of Product Development and Quality, who then introduced the new Mazda CX-9. Whew!
Davis characterized the CX-9 as "being ahead of its time and being completely different from the CX-7." It will have a 3.5L V6, a 6-speed automatic and will be available in FWD or 4WD. Other than that, and the fact that it has 3-row seating, no specific details were released. So if your debating between the CX-7 and the CX-9, you may have a tough choice?
Davis did say the CX-9 had the Mazda signature "Zoom-Zoom" factor, and how it was tested at their Laguna Seca Raceway...
April 5, 2006
Things are about to get a bit tougher for the Nissan Murano, Subaru B9 Tribeca, et al; as the the new Mazda CX-9 hits the streets later this year.
The new 7-passenger CX-9 looks like a big brother to the CX-7. Like its sibling, it is a very good looking vehicle, and I expect it to be a big hit with the public.
February 21, 2006
For those out there waiting for a new Mazda CX-7, your wait shouldn't be too much longer. The vehicle went into full production today.
CX-7
is offered in three trim levels -- Sport, Touring and Grand Touring.
All models come with a six-speed sport-shift automatic transmission,
18-inch alloy wheels, four-wheel vented disc brakes, air conditioning,
power windows, door locks and mirrors, cruise control, and six air
bags...
February 6, 2006
The Wall Street Journal reports that Mazda President and Chief Executive Hisakazu Imaki said Ford's Japanese affiliate will lead a project to develop the basic architecture for Ford's next-generation subcompact vehicle. Ford owns a controlling 33 percent stake in the Japanese automaker.
"We'll help Ford beat the Japanese," he told the paper.
This should be interesting to see...
February 2, 2006
Mazda is on a roll. Over the last few years virtually every new model they have launched here in the USA has been a hit. The new soon-to-be-in-the-showroom CX-7 looks like a homerun too.
In Japan they've just introduced a new MPV minivan (for those who read Japanese), which also look like it will be a hit...
February 1, 2006
...and learn about Mazdas!
What seemed like a great idea by Ponitac marketing folks has come back to bite them, big time. It seems the guys over at Mazda bought the words "Pontiac" and "Pontiac Solstice" as search-engine terms in its advertising efforts around the launch of the redesigned Mazda MX-5 two-seater sports car. So in addition to providing Pontiac ads, a Google search for Pontiac also provides ads that compare MX-5, also known as Miata, with the all-new Solstice.
Oh well, it seemed like a good idea at the time...
January 30, 2006
When I was at the Washington Auto Show last week, I spent a good deal of time checking out the new Mazda CX-7 crossover—which I think will be a huge success. That vehicle looks good from virtually any angle, and sounds like will a whole lot of fun to drive with that 2.3L standard turbo engine. While I was there the Mazda guy mentioned that a larger CX-9 was also in the works, and mentioned what little he knew about it. This vehicle will go up against the Pilot, Highlander and B9 Tribeca...
January 18, 2006
Is this going to be the next "big thing?" Reclining rear seats with foot rests? It first showed up on the mega-buck Maybach 62 limo. At the Detroit car show the upcoming Lexus LS460 had this feature, and here it is on a JDM-spec Mazda MPV.
I bet it won't be long before we see this on US-spec minivans or SUVs...
January 16, 2006
The Mazda CX-7 will hit the showroom floors this spring with a starting price of $24,310 for the 2-wheel-drive version. The all-wheel drive will start at $26,010.
The Mazda CX-7 isn't short on standard features with six airbags, antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, a six-speed automatic tranny, 244-hp and an inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine. Already, members in our Forums are comparing prices and options of the CX-7 to the Acrua RDX, Hyundai Santa Fe, Nissan Murano and other crossovers.
It looks like the crossover market just got a little more interesting...
January 9, 2006
Everybody loves a Mazda and this ride shows why. The Mazda Kabura is an inexpensive, lightweight, rear-drive coupe that's also a hatchback making it oh-so-usable.
The Kabura has flavors from Mazda favorites. Salted with the front double-wishbone suspension and rear multilink layout from the RX-8; peppered with the engine and transmission from the MX-5 makes for a tasty ride!
See for your self Mazda Kabura photos.
Complete Detroit Auto Show Coverage: Mazda Kabura
January 4, 2006
It's a bit quiet at the L.A. Auto Show, so while I wait to see Lambo's drop-top Gallardo, I'll take my slurred thoughts to the under-used and over-appreciated world of automotive marketing.
Case in point: Toyota vs. Mazda...
December 12, 2005
Wards lists the top 10 engines for 2006.
December 2, 2005
Mazda
is recommending that employees walk to the office. How's that for a
twist? Aimed at improving employees' health and to promote environment
protection, Mazda Japan has just introduced its "Eco-walk commutation
allowance" for their workers. More here...
November 16, 2005
Well,
it's Thanksgiving time, so I guess this Forbes list is fair game.
Interestingly there are some models here that I would never consider a
"turkey;" the Mercedes CL-Class, Audi TT, or Volvo C70, for example. However this list was
developed with sales as the determining factor, and from a sales standpoint, these vehicles have not done well this past year.
In any event, here you go...
November 13, 2005
Folding hardtop-convertibles are all the rage, and Mazda
wants to get a piece of the action. So in the not-too-distant future
expect ot see this on the option list in the MX-5 brochure.
I think this is a smart move on Mazda's part. This will open the door
to a whole new group of customers...
November 10, 2005
The new MX-5
(Miata) is one sweet car, and now this award makes it even sweeter—at
least for Mazda. In fact, I'm scheduled to drive one this weekend at a
Mazda Zoom-Zoom Live! Driving Experience event. Now this just adds more
spice to the event...
November 8, 2005
Not good news, especially in a market segment in which crash safety is of paramount importance to customers. The Freestar and MPV models without side air bags earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's lowest ranking, or poor, in the crash results. Ford offers optional side air bags, and that model did better in testing. Mazda also offers an optional side airbag, but opted not to have that model tested...
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