All things considered, the freshly-launched Mazda CX-5 is the company’s most important vehicle to date. The company is really banking on this one for two reasons – the CX-5 is Mazda’s first compact SUV and this vehicle gets the full SkyActiv treatment.

I have touched on the SkyActiv components in my launch report, which I urge you to read. As a short recap, SkyActiv is an umbrella term by which the body, chassis, engine and transmission are conceived from a clean sheet of paper.

This means that all the components are developed in tandem so that they will make the vehicle handle brilliantly and give excellent performance without sacrificing economy. And you know what, it works.

Back to the CX-5 and how ‘unsharp’ it looks. While it does stand out among the current crop of SUVs, the Kodo-based design does not immediately leave cuts in your eyes the way the Takeri concept did. Still, the CX-5 has all the folds and creases in the right places. Incidentally, the design gives a drag coefficient figure of 0.33 Cd.

Nevertheless, the front grille and headlamps combination does follow the Kodo design philosophy quite nicely. Seen whole, the CX-5 has a stance that brushes away any impression of it being matured and serious. Nice to see a Japanese company that still knows how to have fun.

You can find all sorts of creature comforts inside. The seats (only the driver’s chair is power adjustable) are wrapped in leather. It cradles the posterior quite comfortably and gives nice back support. The CX-5 does not skimp on space; the 2,700 mm wheelbase ensures that there’s plenty of room for a long pair of legs.

Mazda has a good reputation for having tight fit and finish and I’m glad it has carried forward that same level of quality into the CX-5 as well. The materials used are a mixture of plastics, some softer than the other. But more importantly, it has fluffed up all the important contact points.

What the designers have left behnd is the sheer amount of buttons that used to permeate Mazda dashboards. The CX-5′s interior – and this is my only beef with its insides – looks too clean and simple; a contrast to what you see on the SUV’s metal shell. Oh well, can’t have everything.

Bermaz has also packed lots of goodies with the CX-5 too. The Special Accessories Package, valued at RM6,000, includes 225/55 tyres with 19-inch alloy wheels, electric sunroof, audio system with sat-nav (which runs on TomTom), leather seats, nine-speaker Bose sound system and a reverse camera with colour TFT touchscreen.

Mazda’s local partner says that the special accessories come standard only for the time being. The additional bells and whistles will become optional in the near future.

Before I bring up the topic on the engine and how it drives, let me touch on the SkyActiv-Drive first. It is a six-speed automatic gearbox that uses a torque converter to get it moving from standstill. However, once north of 8 km/h, the gears lock up to eliminate the need of a fluid coupler to change the gears.

This means the transmission establishes a mechanically direct link with the engine quicker than the competition. What this also does is surgically remove the lag you would expect from an auto gearbox.

It feels crisp, no matter if you leave it in ‘D’ or flick the gears through the manual interface. The transmission is also smart enough to always be in the right gear at the right time. Very promising indeed.

Shifts are fast and very direct, much like how a dual-clutch gearbox behaves. It is also creamy smooth, like a CVT only without the noise. There is virtually no loss in rpms as you go through the motions of getting the CX-5 up to speed.

Things get a little bit complicated from here. In spite of the fact that both 2WD and AWD CX-5 variants breathe with the same SkyActiv-G engine with the same stratospheric 13:1 compression ratio, there’s a slight difference in power figures. And this is just the start of what makes the variants different.

The 2WD gets to run with 153 hp at 6,000 rpm and 200 Nm at 4,000 rpm. The AWD’s figures are a hair’s breadth lower with 152 hp at 6,000 rpm and 198 Nm at 4,000 rpm.

Mazda claims that the figures are measured at the wheels instead of the engine. The loss of one horsepower in the AWD, as Mazda says, happens when power is sent from the engine to all four wheels.

Personally, seeing as there is only a miniscule difference in figures, they could have measured the power at the engine instead and no one would know the difference.

The AWD is not quick off the line as you’d expect it to. Standing on the accelerator only yields a laboured groan, but not much speed. But then again, the engine had barely registered any kilometres.

Once up to speed, the AWD comes together and settles down nicely. There is some good mid-range power and pace to be enjoyed. The engine and gearbox responds quick to the accelerator, needing only the lightest taps to downshift for overtaking.

There’s adequate feedback from the steering, definitely more than the current crop of SUVs in the market. It is weight-adjusted according to speed, making it easy to navigate around tight parking spots, feel assured on the highway and sensitive around the bends.

Speaking of going around the bends, the AWD system constantly makes small adjustments to keep going where you want it to go. It’ll put you through the motions, going from oversteer to understeer and back to oversteer. All the while keeping the nose pointing to the right direction without needing further steering input from you.

It does feel ‘iffy’ at first, but once trust is established with the system, the act of stitching up corners will be all too easy. And it is precise too, putting down rubber in all the right places to trace a nice curve. The more I drove the AWD, the more fun I got out of this compact SUV.

Yet, it is the 2WD that I would have on my driveway. It gives better fuel economy, 6.9 L/100 km versus 7.3 L/100 km on a combined cycle. It is also a lighter vehicle. The 2WD weighs in at 1,522 kg, which is 67 kg lighter than the AWD version.

Out of the bag, the 2WD is the one that is easier to drive. Acceleration feels more willing, hence quicker away from zero. The engine also feels less strung up in spite of it having about the same amount of mileage than the AWD model.

The two-wheel drive CX-5 feels just as relaxed and confident when cruising at the national speed limit. And like the AWD version, this CX-5 gives good mid-range aggression and respectable high-speed overtaking.

It is in the corners that the 2WD and AWD models feel different. The two-wheel drive CX-5 feels more balanced around the corners, going around them with much enthusiasm and grip.

OK, there might be some understeer due to its front-wheel drive nature, but you almost won’t notice of any meaningful loss of traction. Do you really need the AWD then? In normal driving conditions, the 2WD CX-5 handles better than you might expect.

The test drive was not a long one and it ended far too early. The CX-5 has a nice party bag of tricks but due to a lack of time, I wasn’t able to dig deep into that bag.

Still, if you are in the market for a sporty utility vehicle, you can’t really go wrong with the CX-5. As it stands, Mazda has put together a really nice vehicle to drive and live with.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

No related posts.

The study calls for both Mazda and Fiat to develop two differentiated, distinctly styled, iconic and brand-specific light weight roadsters featuring rear-wheel drive. Each will be powered by proprietary engines unique to their brand (eg. SkyActiv G for Mazda, TBi for Alfa). The plan is that both cars will be manufactured at Mazda’s Hiroshima plant, with production for the Alfa roadster starting in 2015.

“Establishing technology and product development alliances is one of Mazda’s corporate objectives and this announcement with Fiat is an important first step in that direction. It is especially exciting to be collaborating with such a prestigious marque as Alfa Romeo on a new roadster based on the next-generation MX-5, which is such an iconic vehicle for Mazda and recognised as the best-selling roadster of all time,” said Takashi Yamanouchi, Mazda’s President and CEO.

“This agreement clearly demonstrates our commitment to Alfa Romeo and the determination to grow it into a truly global brand. By partnering with Mazda, we will be co-operating with the recognised leader in compact rear-drive vehicle architectures in order to deliver an exciting and stylish roadster in the Alfa Romeo tradition. We are appreciative of this collaboration with Mazda and look forward to maintaining a fruitful and continuous relationship,” said Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne.

The final agreement is expected to be signed in the second-half of this year. Mazda and Fiat have also agreed to discuss further opportunities for co-operation in Europe.

Sounds delicious, doesn’t it? I’m just wondering if “Alfa’s MX-5″ will look anything like the pretty 4C Concept shown in Geneva 2011. Or how about this sleek Pininfarina proposal seen at Geneva 2010? Anyhow, it’s exciting times ahead!

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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The covers have just been officially drawn away from the Mazda CX-5 here in Penang. Now, we’ve already seen the brochure, as well as the price that Bermaz Motor is asking for one.

As a recap, you need RM155,219 for the 2WD and RM165,219 for the AWD (both OTR, without insurance). The CX-5 comes only in one standard spec, so both variants are equipped with the same features, which means the differences between them are not immediately noticeable, apart from the number of wheels driven.

The SUV -which made its Japanese market debut in February – comes bearing SkyActiv technology. In a nutshell, SkyActiv is a holistic approach by Mazda to give better engine performance, handling, environmental friendliness and increased safety in a shell that is quite dashing.

Power comes from the SkyActiv-G 2.0 litre direct injection petrol engine. It has a 13:1 compression ratio, the highest in any production engine, the closest being the Ferrari 458, with a 12.5:1 compression ratio. The knocking that usually comes with a high compression engine is tamed by a 4-2-1 exhaust system with long pipes in the exhaust manifold.

Yes, we have a lower compression ratio compared to the original 14:1, but Mazda has said that the compression ratio is dependent on the quality of fuel for each region, and the ratio of 13:1 is still high.

The engine’s piston has a cavity on the piston crown that gives better air-fuel mixture around the spark plug. The SkyActiv-G is also 10% lighter and has 30% less mechanical resistance compared to Mazda’s current engines. This results in 15% better fuel economy, 15% greater torque output and 15% lower carbon emissions. Oh, and it runs on RON 95 fuel.

Although both variants share the same engine, the output figures are slightly different. The AWD produces 152 hp at 6,000 rpm and 198 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. In contrast, the 2WD generates 153 hp at 6,000 rpm and 200 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Supposedly, there’s a reason for the slight difference in numbers; Mazda claims it measures the horsepower on the wheels and not on the engine, as other car manufacturers usually do. Can’t say it’s all that convincing, but there you are.

As for fuel economy, the AWD sips 7.3 Ll/100km (combined) while the 2WD needs only 6.9 L/100km (combined). Another thing, the AWD gets a 58 litre fuel tank and the 2WD drinks from a 56 litre tank. The SkyActiv-D, which is the diesel engine, will not be arriving here, due to the quality of the fuel available here.

SkyActiv-Drive partners SkyActiv-G in sending power to the wheels. It is a six-speed automatic transmission that works with a small torque converter unit used only when the vehicle moves from stationary. The power is transferred through a direct mechanical connection, which increases the lock-up range from 40%-60% to 80%-90% at high speeds when compared to Mazda’s current five-speed slushbox.

Mazda also said that the new gearbox shifts smoother and quicker. Mazda’s Mechatronic module, which was previously mounted outside, is now integrated into the hydraulic control mechanism inside the transmission case. Communication with the engine’s CPU is increased and a direct linear solenoid makes the shifting silky throughout the range.

The CX-5 rides on the SkyActiv-Chassis, with a new suspension system that is lighter, yet stiffer. It also features a new geometry with the front MacPherson strut suspension and rear multi-link layout. Standard grip duties are performed by 255/55 R19 rubbers wrapped around 19×7-1/2J aluminium wheels.

Mazda’s compact SUV also features the SkyActiv-Body. High-tensile steel and a new production process make this one eight percent lighter yet 30% more rigid. The metal is formed into a multi-load structure that is said to effectively disperse impact energy throughout the body structure; done mainly for crash safety. So, the SUV in its 2WD guise tips the scales at 1,522 kg, and the AWD is slightly heavier with 1,589 kg.

Wearing its ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’ suit of armour, the vehicle measures 4,555 mm long overall, 1,840 mm wide overall and 1,670 mm tall, with a 2,700 mm wheelbase. The SUV has an unladen ground clearance of 215 mm for the 2WD and 210 mm for the AWD.

The five-seater features leather seats; the driver seat gets electric-powered seat adjustment (none for the front passenger), although both seats come with warmers. The rear seats have the ability to fold in 40:20:40-split. Dual-zone air-conditioning rounds up the creature comforts.

Entertainment comes from a nine-speaker Bose Centerpoint Surround Sound System, hooked up to a 5.8-inch touchscreen monitor that controls the multimedia. The system can be connected via AUX, USB and Bluetooth. The colour monitor also displays images from the rear camera.

As for safety, the CX-5 comes with DCS, TCS, four-wheel ABS, EBD with Brake Assist and Tyre Pressure Monitor. There are six airbags in here – two in front, side and curtain. Notably, this is the first vehicle that uses a 1,800MPa ultra-high tensile steel for bumpers.

In addition to, Bermaz Motor is offering an ultimate in-total vehicle protection to keep the CX-5 in pristine showroom condition. It is called TRIBOS and it employs an active polymer shield to protect the paintwork. The treatment is also used on the glass, alloys and seats.

The CX-5 comes in five colours – Sky Blue, Zeal Red, Crystal White Pearl, Aluminium Metallic and Metropolitan Grey. Like all Mazda vehicles, this SUV is sold with a three-year warranty plus a three-year maintenance that covers the cost of parts and labour.

As you have guessed, I’ve already taken both CX-5 variants for a short spin. Look out for the initial drive impressions soon.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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Mazda recently announced that it had signed an agreement with OJSC Sollers to establish a joint venture manufacturing company in Russia. Sollers is one of the leading automotive companies in Russia. The JV company will locate its production facility in Vladivostok, in Russia’s Far Eastern Federal District, and operations will begin in fall this year.

The facility will be used for the assembly of Mazda’s new CX-5 SUV (which you’ll hear more about shortly), the next generation Mazda6 and a Sollers vehicle, all for the Russian market. Production capacity will be 50,000 units per year, with the aim of increasing it to 70,000 units per year.

The automotive market in Russia has made a strong recovery since the financial crisis of 2009. In the 2011 calendar year, demand for new cars increased by about 40% from 2010 to 2.65 million units, making it the second largest market in Europe after Germany. Demand is expected to grow to around three million units in 2015.

In Mazda’s fiscal year 2011 (April 2011 to March 2012), the Hiroshima-based carmaker sold 43,561 units in Russia, a 50.2% increase.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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The rotary-powered Mazda RX-8′s life is coming to an end, no thanks to stricter emission rules. And as a send off, Mazda created a final special edition for the unique four-door coupe called Spirit-R, launched in November last year and limited to 1,000 units.

But too many enthusiasts wanted a piece of the farewell cake, so Mazda has decided to extend production of the Spirit-R by another 1,000 units. According to the Hiroshima-based carmaker, orders poured in from customers of all ages, including sports car fans and rotary engine enthusiasts. The six-speed manual has been more popular, accounting for 66% of orders.

Both manual and auto variants have their own exclusive kit. The self-shifter sports aero parts, “hard suspension” with Bilstein dampers, Recaro fabric bucket seats, aluminum pedal set and 19-inch bronze-painted forged aluminum wheels.

The six-speed Activematic auto, on the other hand, gets black leather seats (eight-way powered, with memory), “sports suspension,” 225/45 91W tyres and 18-inch alloys (gun metallic) and heated front seats. Three body colours are available for both – Aluminum Metallic, Sparkling Black Mica and Crystal White Pearl Mica.

Kit shared across the board are special ornament, black bezel lamps, larger brake rotors, piano black trim, front/side/curtain airbags, DSC and TCS, leather steering and centre console box with red stitching. The Spirit-R is priced at 3,250,000 yen (RM124,789) for the manual and 3,120,000 yen (RM119,816) for the auto.

Mazda started selling the twin-rotor rotary RX-8 in April 2003, and as of March 31, 2012, has produced 192,094 units of the rear-wheel drive sportscar. Production ends next month. Sayonara!

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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More news from Ford, which told us their plans for Malaysia earlier this week. The Blue Oval and Mazda, joint owners of the AutoAlliance Thailand (AAT) plant in Rayong, have announced an additional US$27 million investment in the shared plant. The money is to further upgrade the pick-up truck line and increase capacity by another 20,000 units per year.

AAT produces the all-new Ford Ranger T6 and new Mazda BT-50 pick-up trucks for Thailand and the world. The new investment will include facility upgrades such as additional robotic equipment and tooling to help increase line speed and output. The new capacity will start to come online next month.

The additional 20k units bring the total annual capacity of AAT’s pick-up truck line to 195,000 units, bringing overall plant capacity to 295,000 units per year, including passenger cars like the Ford Fiesta, Mazda 2 and Mazda 3.

This latest cash injection increases Ford and Mazda’s total joint investment in the AAT facility to nearly US$2 billion since operations began in 1995. Last year, both companies jointly-invested US$350 million to support facility upgrades and supplier tooling for production of the new Ranger and BT-50.

The new Ranger will be launching middle of this year. Read our test drive report of the impressive T6 here.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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Thanks to reader Liffey for sending this in. What we have here is the leaked full brochure and the pricelist for the new Mazda CX-5 ahead of its launch, which confirms the info in the online ads Anthony dug up earlier. If the scan resolution isn’t all that hot, don’t fret, I’ve strained my eyes and plucked the juicy bits for your reading pleasure.

From what I can deduce from the brochure, the CX-5 is fully imported from Japan and gets the full SkyActiv components – engine, transmission, body and chassis.

Only one engine will be available at launch, and that is the SkyActiv-G 2.0 petrol engine. It features a 4-2-1 exhaust system, cavity pistons, multi-hole injectors and a 13.0:1 compression ratio. The engine is capable of generating 155 hp and 200 Nm of torque, and the mill is mated to a SkyActiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission that will drive either two-wheels or four, depending on the variant.

The CX-5 also features the SkyActiv-Body that is said to be 30% more rigid and 8% lighter. The CX-5 is 4,450 mm long (without number plate holder), 1,840 mm wide (with wheel arch molding) and 1,670 mm tall (with roof rails and antenna). The wheelbase measures at 2,700 mm.

The additional rigidity and lightness of the body contributes to the SkyActiv-Chassis, which provides high levels of balance between low- to mid-speed agility and high-speed stability. The suspension setup of the CX-5 consists of MacPherson struts for the front and multilinks for the rear.

The CX-5 specified for the Malaysian market comes with bi-xenon headlamps, day-running lights, front wipers with rain sensor, auto cruise and six air bags, just to name a few, as standard. The CX-5 also included with the price is the Special Accessories Package, which is made up of a multi-information display with navigation, nine-speaker Bose sound system, 19-inch alloy wheels, electric sunroof, leather seats and a reverse camera with colour TFT.

How much does Bermaz wants for the CX-5? Well, as indicated in the price list: RM159,500 for the 2WD and RM169,760 for the 4WD.

The scans are below if you’d like to decipher more of the brochure. What do you think?

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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UPDATE: More eye-slicing pictures added into the gallery.

The people of North America can finally get a good look at Mazda’s Takeri Concept, which made its debut at the 2012 New York International Auto Show. The last time we saw it was at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show.

Takeri is the third interpretation of the Kodo (or Soul of Motion) and is an evolution of the Shinari concept. The Kodo design has also spawned the Minagi concept, which went on to become the Mazda CX-5. So what you see here may just appear on the road in the very near future.

The name, Takeri, is derived from the Japanese word meaning ‘male’, which matches the vehicle’s masculinity. The Kodo elements are easily identifiable – sharp five-point grille, chiseled front fascia, pronounced and sword-sharp bodylines. It is as if Ikuo Maeda, Mazda’s Design Chief, has taken the katana and carved out this car from a block of metal. Stunning.

It is all about purposeful simplicity when talking about Takeri’s interior. Satin chrome is used selectively and intelligently throughout the mostly-black instrument panel. The control dials, door panels, in-dash navigation, three-spoke steering wheel give off a soft metallic sheen especially when struck by natural light. Racing-inspired paddle shifters, allow pedals and ceramic-white leather seats completes the sporty ambitions of the brand.

Takeri is the first concept vehicle to feature the SkyActiv-D diesel engine. If you don’t know already, SkyActiv Technology is Mazda’s all-encompassing term that focuses developing affordable, fuel-efficient vehicles without culling performance and the joy of driving.

This concept car gets the SkyActiv royal flush – transmission, engine, body and chassis. The ace in this is the SkyActiv-D 2.2 litre clean diesel engine that is said to be lighter than the current MZR-CD 2.2 litre diesel by 10%, reduces internal friction by 20% and improves fuel economy by 20%.

No official numbers but Mazda said that the SkyActiv-D uses a two-stage turbocharger that punches power across the engine range up to 5,200 rpm. It also boats the world’s lowest compression ratio for a diesel engine at 14.0:1, which makes the diesel burn cleaner with less NOx discharge. In fact, it produces virtually no soot, thus requires to NOx aftertreatments needed by conventional engines.

Two more fuel-saving technologies make its way into the Takeri, the ‘i-stop’ idling stop system and the ‘i-ELOOP’ regenerative braking system.

The i-stop clocks the world’s fastest diesel engine restart at 0.4 seconds. While the rest of the world’s stop-start system require two engine cycles, the i-stop uses only a single cycle by way of carefully positioning the pistons as the engine halts. Mazda says it results in smoother acceleration and significant improvement in stop-and-go fuel economy. This system is already available in cars sold in Japan, Europe, Australia and New Zealand.

i-ELOOP gets its name from ‘Intelligent Energy Loop’ and it is the world’s first capacitor-based regenerative braking system. The basic idea is that the kinetic energy of a decelerating vehicle is converted into electricity by way of an electric motor or alternator, which will then by typically stored in a dedicated battery.

Mazda’s i-ELOOP, however, uses a capacitor, which temporarily stores large volume of electricity and avoids the need for a dedicated motor and battery. The transformation uses a 12-25V variable voltage alternator, a low-resistance electric double layer capacitor and a DC-to-DC converter to get the job done. Mazda’s system uses the freshly converted energy to power climate control, audio systems and other electrical components. The i-ELOOP will be introduced into Mazda vehicles starting 2012.

If the pictures are anything to go by, the Takeri is one of the most stunning car designs to come out of Japan in recent years. Then again, Mazda have always known to add a lot of Zoom-Zoom in their car designs.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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It looks like Mazda has been conservative with its expectations of the CX-5. Since it’s launch in Japan earlier in the year, Mazda has already received approximately 8,000 bookings for the SUV – eight times more than the monthly sales target of 1,000 units.

Another surprise came from the number of orders for the petrol engine, which made 27% of the total orders. The rest of the 73% is made up of orders for the diesel engine, which Mazda says delivers performance equivalent to that of a 4.0 litre V8 petrol unit.

The mind-boggling thing about the entire affair is that these booking came even before the start of the customer test drive program, which begins in dealerships across Japan on March 31.

It is still unclear when the SUV is arriving in Malaysia in spite of strong presence of the ads on mudah.my. Naturally, the sooner it arrives, the better it will be.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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Well, if your interest in the CX-5 has been piqued by the Mudah ads popping up about it, it’ll also be of interest to hear that Mazda has officially introduced the SUV in its own domestic market as of today. The CX-5 will be available in four model grades there, two each for the 2.0 litre SkyActiv G normally-aspirated direct injection petrol and 2.2 SkyActiv D commonrail turbodiesel mills available for it.

The 175 PS and 420 Nm 2.2 litre diesel grade variants are the XD and XD L Package, both available in 2WD and 4WD form, while the 155 PS and 196 Nm 2.0 litre petrol versions are the 20C and 20S, with the 20C version only available in 2WD. All engine variants will be partnered to the single transmission on offer in Japan, the SkyActiv-Drive six-speed EC-AT.

Kit includes 17-inch wheels (with 225/65 series tyres) for all versions except the XD L, which gets 19-inch units wearing 225/55 rubbers. The XD L will also get the Smart City Brake Support and rear vehicle monitoring systems as standard – the RVM is available as an option for the XD and 20S, but not for the 20C version.

Pricing for the CX-5 begins from 2.05 million Yen for the base 20C petrol model to 3.19 million Yen for the 4WD XD L version. Mazda has set a monthly sales target of 1,000 vehicles in Japan, with reports adding that the company is looking to move 160,000 units globally on an annual basis.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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Ah, you’ve just got to love selling through the Internet – you sometimes get to know what’s coming long before the official channels open up. Take the Mazda CX-5, for example, which we wrote about earlier. Ads for the vehicle have started popping up on Mudah.my, and working on the adage that there’s no smoke without fire …

The vehicle is set to be launched into the market sometime in spring, which essentially means that the CX-5′s introduction here will be close in line with other markets. The version we’ll be getting, according to the ads, is a 2.0 SkyActiv G variant mated to a six-speed auto transmission, with indicative pricing being RM165,000 for the two-wheel drive variant.

Features – as listed in the ads – include:

* Six airbags (front, side and curtain)
* Smart keyless with push-start button ignition
* Front and rear parking sensor + reverse camera
* GPS navigation system with TFT screen
* Full leather seats, with power adjustment
* A nine-speaker Bose sound system with USB connection
* Bi-Xenon headlamps, with auto light functional system (AFS) and auto leveling
* Sunroof
* Bluetooth hands-free system
* Daytime running lights

Five colours are available, these being Sky Blue, Aluminium Metallic, Metropolitan Grey, Crystal White Pearl, Zeal Red.

Sources – Mudah ad 1, Mudah ad 2, Mudah ad 3

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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Mazda has announced that the upcoming CX-5 SUV arriving this spring will debut a Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) system, which helps a driver to avoid a frontal collision when driving at low speeds in the city or in slow traffic.

The system uses a laser sensor to detect a vehicle or obstacle in front and automatically reduces the extent of the brake rotor travel to quicken braking operation. If the driver fails to perform any operation to avoid a collision, such as applying the brake, SCBC automatically activates the brakes and reduces the engine output at the same time. Not exactly new hat, the tech, but it is for the brand, and the CX-5 will be the first to wear it.

In related tech news, the company has announced the development of a new resin that offers the same rigidity as conventional materials, with the result being that less material is needed to make a part, while offering the same structural integrity.

Jointly developed with Japan Polypropylene Corporation, the new resin thus offers a lighter manufactured part. It’s set to feature as material in the production of front and rear bumpers, where it contributes to a weight reduction of approximately 20%.

The company blended two components found in polypropylene and rubber (the constituents of resin) that have different properties, and succeeded in distributing them in a double-layer structure in line with the required function for the surface and the inside of the base bumper material. The net result is a bumper with an inner section that retains high rigidity and impact absorption, with reduced thickness.

Additionally, the use of the material also offers faster build times. In the production process, the reduced thickness allows for a shorter cooling period for molding, and bumper molding time, previously 60 seconds, will be halved to 30 seconds utilising the resin, leading to major reductions in the amount of energy consumed in the production process. Needless to say, the resin will be used for the CX-5′s bumpers.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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Mazda is showcasing a host of customised vehicles at the upcoming edition of the annual Tokyo Auto Salon in January, and among these are two versions of the CX-5 crossover, which is set to be introduced in its domestic market next spring.

Both CX-5s are standard models, but one has been given a special edition tart-up job, combining a red exterior body colour with alloy wheels painted in matte-black and slightly lower body height, and will have the honour of leading the dress-up party for the show.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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I just realised that we haven’t had a proper all round look at the new Mazda CX-5, which was unveiled in production form at Frankfurt in September, so here you go. This gallery shows Mazda’s smallest SUV inside and out, allowing us to view the new Kodo (Soul of Motion) design from all angles, as well as the sedate business-like cabin that hints at BMW.

The CX-5 has a relatively lengthy wheelbase of 2,700 mm, which is 30 mm longer than the Mitsubishi ASX’s. Mazda says that it has class-leading rear seat legroom of 997 mm, while there’s 500 litres of useable luggage space (including a sub trunk) maximised by removing protrusions. The “Karakuri” rear seats split fold 40:20:40 (which is very unique) and there’s a remote fold-down function.

We also see a 5.8-inch colour touch screen monitor on the dashboard, which contains Mazda’s new new HMI system and a navigation system based on the latest from TomTom. A Bose stereo is on the options list.

The CX-5 will come with Mazda’s revolutionary SkyActiv engines. The SkyActiv-G 2.0 petrol boasts the world highest compression ratio of 14.0:1, with its 4-2-1 exhaust system preventing knocking and providing good torque from low engine speeds. In the FWD model, the 2.0 makes 165 PS and 210 Nm, and in the AWD there’s 160 PS and 208 Nm. Mazda says that a 2.0 FWD model with 6-speed manual and i-stop will only drink 6.0 litres of fuel per 100 km combined.

There’s also a SkyActiv 2.2 diesel with the world’s lowest compression ratio for oil burners at 14.0:1 and a two-stage turbocharger. Mazda says that this high tech engine can clear Euro 6 emission standards without the need of any NOx after-treatment systems. Two variants are available, a High Power 175 PS/420 Nm version and the standard 150 PS/380 Nm unit. With a 6/MT with i-stop, this engine needs just 4.5 litres per 100 km combined.

Transmission wise, Mazda promises double-clutch performance for the auto and a “light and crisp shift feel known from the MX-5″ for the manual. Both are six speeders, which is enough, really.

The CX-5 looks good and sounds impressive, especially the SkyActiv bits. Like what you see?

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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Auto production that was crippled by massive flooding in Thailand is beginning to get back on its feet. Some companies whose factories were spared by the water rush, but whose suppliers were affected, are restarting production soon, the Bangkok Post reports. They include Japanese giant Toyota, Mazda and Mitsubishi.

“We will try to start production as soon as possible, possibly on the 21st of this month, and then slowly increase our production capacity,” said Toyota president Akio Toyoda, who also plans to increase investment in the Land of Smiles. “Toyota expects to increase our investment here over time to develop the automotive industry,” he added.

Like General Motors’ Rayong plant, Toyota’s three Thai plants in Samut Prakan and Chachoengsao weren’t under water, but many suppliers and vendors were affected. Toyota, the biggest carmaker in Thailand, has delayed restarting operations three times already, but green light from suppliers this time around make Toyoda’s target date more achievable.

Over at Mitsubishi, they will restart production of Tritons and Pajero Sport SUVs on Monday at two factories that have full capacity of 1,000 units per day. MMC plans to recover production of 23,000 units lost from the combined impact of both the Japanese tsunami and Thai flood. Work was suspended at MMC’s two plants in Chon Buri on October 13.

Meanwhile, Mazda is ready to resume passenger car production with immediate delivery of Mazda2 and Mazda3 models. Both models are built at the AutoAlliance Thailand plant, a joint venture with Ford located in Rayong. The AAT facility wasn’t directly affected by the flood, allowing Mazda to source parts from China and Japan for the 2 and 3. However, production of the BT-50 pick-up truck will remain suspended since most parts are localised and Thailand is the main production hub for trucks.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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Mazda has released the first images of its Takeri next-generation midsize sedan concept, which is set to make its global debut at the Tokyo Motor Show. The vehicle, which effectively showcases the design direction the new Mazda6 will take, will feature a full array of SkyActiv tech.

With lines based on the company’s new Kodo design language, the Takeri is said to express “an intuitive sedan identity” and contain “an overwhelming emotional beauty,” aside from of course also being the latest platform to highlight SkyActiv.

It will wear a 2.2 litre SkyActiv-D turbodiesel engine and feature an i-stop idling stop system and Mazda’s first regenerative braking system among its kitbag of tech. The company says that the concept will deliver a balance of vigorous performance and a supremely comfortable ride feel as that desired in a sedan. That’s all the flowery spiel for now; expect more details on the rakish car when Tokyo comes about.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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Mazda has introduced the Roadster BLACK TUNED, a special edition version of its iconic lightweight, two-seat, open-top sports car, for the Japanese market. The special edition Roadster (or the MX-5, if you will) is based on the premium ‘RS RHT’ and ‘VS RHT’ model grades, replete with a power retractable hard top, or the RHT, which gives the models their suffix.

The BLACK TUNED theme means that this one gets a Brilliant Black roof and door mirrors, black fog lamp bezels, body coloured door handles as well as gun metallic-finished 17-inch alloy wheels. Meanwhile, the interior gets the black treatment, with the decoration panel in piano black and the seats and steering wheel dressed in black leather, contrasted with sand-colored stitching.

No changes to the 2.0 litre twin cam mill, which drives both the RS RHT (six-speed manual) and the VS RHT (six-speed auto) in the BLACK TUNED operation, though two exclusive colours are available for the edition, these being Spirited Green Metallic and Velocity Red Mica, with the ever popular Crystal White Pearl Mica on the list as well.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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The Mazda 2 will be locally assembled in Vietnam from October 2011 in a newly constructed assembly plant in the Nui Thanh district of the Quang Nam province, with sales of the locally assembled cars to begin in the same month.

The assembly plant where the Mazda 2 will be assembled is owned by Vina Mazda Automobile Manufacturing Co, a 100% Vietnamese owned assembly and sales company with no capital ties to Mazda. The plant plans to produce 2,000 units o the Mazda 2 per annum. Mazda plans to assemble other models at the plant in the future with a target total annual production of about 10,000 cars.

This will be the first Mazda to be locally assembled in Vietnam since Vina Mazda started officially distributing the marque in Vietnam in March 2011. As usual, the reason for local assembly is to avoid high import tariffs.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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Over in Japan, Mazda has begun recycling scrapped bumpers from end-of-life vehicles (ELV) to obtain raw material for use in new vehicle bumpers. The new technology is initially being used to make rear bumpers for the Biante minivan.

Conventionally, bumpers from cars destined for scrapping are processed into automobile shredder residue (ASR) and incinerated to recover heat energy. The new process will yield approximately 10% of material for each new bumper produced. For starters, the company is collecting bumpers from end-of-life Mazda vehicles in the Hiroshima area to obtain the necessary.

With bumpers comprising a large proportion of plastic, collecting and recycling ELV bumpers is expected to make a significant contribution to reducing waste and loss of resources, and the company says that the cost of recycling is less than the cost of purchasing new plastic. A case of ashes to ashes, bumper to bumper, indeed.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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Mazda, the Zoom-Zoom brand famous for its rotary engined sports cars, has decided stop making the RX-8, the only rotary powered model in its current range.

Factors linked to the death of the RX-8 are falling sales and stringent global emissions standards, which are only going to get tougher. Production has already stopped in early July, and global sales will end later this year.

This comes after the Hiroshima based carmaker pulled out the RX-8 from Europe last year, as the high-revving 1.3-litre, twin-rotor rotary engined car failed to meet EU emissions standards. Without European volume, Mazda couldn’t justify selling the four-seat RX-8, a Mazda source was quoted as saying.

Sales has been diving – Mazda sold just 1,134 RX-8s last year, 49% less than in 2009. July 2011 year-to-date fugures dived a further 21%. The Japanese Yen’s rise vs the USD doesn’t help matters.

However, the RX-8′s demise may not be the death of the rotary engine. Sources say that Mazda engineers are still working on the next generation 1.6-litre rotary engine, code-named 16X. It will have lower emissions, better fuel economy, more power, and for the first time – direct-injection.

“The rotary is alive and well within Mazda. We are studying what’s the best way to come back to the market with the rotary,” said Jim O’Sullivan, CEO of Mazda North America.

However, with Mazda’s full focus now on its SkyActiv range of efficient tech, it remains to be seen when, if at all, rotary will be back. Farewell for now, and have a smooth spinning journey!

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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Rumour has it that the proponent of the Wankel rotary combustion engine, Mazda, may be planning to drop the tech it first adopted nearly five decades ago. The next-gen Renesis rotary has been in development since 2007, but economic hardship is ever slowly pushing the Japanese automaker towards ending things on that front.

According to reports, there’s a huge, ongoing discussion within the company on whether it should continue pursuing movement on the Wankel front. So says the automaker’s executive officer of product planning and powertrain development, Kiyoshi Fujiwara.

Fujiwara states that the development of the rotary has been halted at the moment, and not just because of technical issues – three major problems were identified with the current rotary engine generation, though two of these three blocks have been overcome. Seemingly, with the need to cut costs, Mazda leadership is cutting back on programs, and the one with the engine happens to be on the list.

The reports add that much of the rotary’s survivability will depend on how the company’s SkyActiv fuel-saving technologies take off. If they do, and brand sales pick up, then there’ll be the necessary dough to invest back into the rotary’s development, Fujiwara says. He hopes that such a move will take place, since the tech is very much part of the company’s DNA. Don’t hold your breath for anything to happen for a good four to five years at least, though.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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The name is not a surprise, nor its looks. That’s because Mazda came up with the Minagi Concept earlier this year in March, before confirming that the production car will be called CX-5 a month later. Now, the Mazda CX-5 compact crossover is previewed ahead of its world debut at September’s Frankfurt show, and it retains much of the Minagi’s looks.

To slot under Mazda’s CX-7 and CX-9 SUVs, the CX-5 will be a milestone model for the Hiroshima based carmaker. This is because it will be the first of a new generation of Mazda products that will adopt the full range of SkyActiv tech, and also the brand’s new design theme, Kodo.

Kodo, which means Soul of Motion, was first shown via the four-door coupe Shinari Concept of 2010, replacing the Nagare look of today’s production Mazdas.

Mazda’s SkyActiv tech encompasses fuel efficient gasoline and diesel engines, manual and automatic transmissions, as well as body and chassis. They try to think out of the box for SkyActiv – an example is the record high 14:1 compression ratio in direct-injection petrol engines, accompanied by a range of anti knock measures, that delivers 30 km/l in a 1.3-litre Mazda 2.

Sitting on a new modular platform and suspension set-up, the CX-5 will feature a SkyActiv-G 2.0L gasoline engine and a SkyActiv-D 2.2L diesel, available in “Standard Power” and “High Power” variants. Both engines also sport the magic 14:1 compression ratio for ideal efficiency, a very high figure for petrol and a very low figure for diesel. The CX-5′s oil burner puts out 173 bhp and 420 Nm of torque.

“Exceptional environmental performance” was a main focus here, and the 2.2 diesel is set to emit less than 120g/km of CO2, which is a very good figure for an SUV.

The CX-5 will be progressively introduced to global markets from early 2012. More pics after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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There’s no missing the Mazda booth at IIMS 2011, thanks to the brand’s infectious “Zoom Zoom Zoom” song playing in the background. There weren’t any world debuts, just local launches for the MX-5 and the Mazda 8 MPV, but something caught our eye, and it’s this red hot Mazda 2 with an unusual face.

This isn’t a “new” or “facelifted” Mazda 2, but more likely a local project that souped up the car for promo purposes. We can see the latest 2′s big smiley mouth here, but without the accompanying grille. The foglamp elements have been changed, as are the insides of the headlights, which feature a single projector with BMW style angel eye running lights.

The five-door hatch’s sporty profile is boosted by huge 18in wheels wrapped with Yokohamas, silver painted wing mirrors and thick side skirts. The rear gets LED tail lamps and a grey lower bumper with VW Golf R32 style twin centre exhaust pipes.

Perhaps this can be inspiration for Malaysian Mazda 2 owners. View the rest of the pics after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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Mazda is set to premiere the Freestyle Cab version of its new BT-50 pickup at the upcoming Australian International Motor Show in Melbourne, which begins on July 1. It’s the second global debut taking place Down Under for the BT-50 – the dual-cab version premiered in Sydney last October.

As the moniker suggests, the pickup utilises the Freestyle door configuration first seen on the RX-8, thus offering an exceptionally wide pillar-less door opening and an increased sense of cabin space. On each side of the cabin, a front-hinged door and a rear access panel combine to provide a 1,408mm-wide opening that makes for easy entry to and exit from either the front or rear seats.

Mazda says that the rear-seat comfort has been improved in the Freestyle Cab – the cushions have been lengthened by 50 mm for better thigh support and more stable fitment of child seats, while the seatback height has been increased by 128 mm.

Click to enlarge

The rear seat cushions can be removed, and with the rear access panels opening to an angle of nearly 90 degrees, loading and storing cargo into the cab’s rear seating is a breeze. Elsewhere, the cargo tub has increased in width, length and height, translating into an overall cargo volume of 1,453 litres, an increase of 266 litres over the equivalent current model.

No mention is made of the powertrains for the Freestyle Cab, but engine options should be the new 197 hp and 470 Nm MZ-CD 3.2 litre turbodiesel engine, with either six-speed auto or manual transmissions, and the MZ-CD 2.2 litre diesel unit, offering 148 hp and 375 Nm, the same mills the dual-cab will wear for Australia.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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It currently produces the Mazda6 at the AutoAlliance International plant in Michigan, its equal partnership venture with Ford, but with US production at well less than half the planned levels, Mazda is looking at letting go its stake in the JV to Ford. The Japanese automaker built just 45,000 vehicles in the US in the year ended March, though its production capacity at the AAI plant is 120,000 vehicles a year.

Ford is anticipated to maintain production at the plant by increasing the number of models it produces there, when the proposed change eventually takes place.

Mazda will be looking at supplying US demand through Japanese production at its Hofu plant and from its future assembly location in Mexico. It has plans to construct a JV plant with Sumitomo Corp there, and intends to eventually also supply Latin America with automobiles produced at the Mexican plant. The plans are part of a review of the carmaker’s global production system and rebuilding of its US operations.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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This year marks the 20th anniversary of Mazda’s victory in the world’s most famous endurance race, the 24-Hours of Le Mans. In 1991, Mazda became the first, and till now, only Japanese car manufacturer to win Le Mans, completing 362 laps at an average speed of about 205 km/h.

Driven by England’s Johnny Herbert, Belgian Bertrand Gachot and German Volker Weidler, the 787B is also the only rotary powered car to have won Le Mans.

To commemorate this, Mazda has been invited to demo the 787B on the Circuit de la Sarthe on June 11, hours before the 2011 Peugeot vs Audi showdown begins. In addition, the 787B will also take part in the Driver’s Parade through the Le Mans city centre on Friday, June 10.

The orange and green 787B featured a chassis designed to meet Group C technical regulations and was powered by a four-rotor rotary engine that produced 700 PS.

Since the win, the 787B has been on display at the Mazda Museum in Hiroshima, Japan. In preparation for the demo, Mazda has carefully restored it back to driving condition for the first time since its post-race overhaul in 1991. The work was carried out by current Mazda employees who participated in the company’s original Le Mans Challenge Project, along with engineers from Mazda’s subsidiary engineering company Mazda E&T.

The restored car has been tested by in-house development drivers, and its performance has been confirmed at Mazda’s Mine Proving Ground in Japan.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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The company plans to introduce the SkyActiv-G 1.3 domestically in the facelifted Demio (Mazda2) soon, making it the first ever 1.3 litre direct-injection gasoline engine to be equipped in a compact car built in Japan. It will offer 84 PS at 5,400 rpm and 112 Nm at 4,000 rpm for output.

The breakthrough block features a record high compression ratio (for a regular gasoline mass production automobile engine) of 14.0:1 and exhibits high efficiency, especially under high load at low rpm. In order to avoid knocking – an unavoidable issue with conventional high-compression engines – the unit features a number of new technologies, such as piston cavities that are specially designed to support ideal combustion, and multi-hole injectors that enable precise fuel injection control.

Other features include a cooled EGR system and Mazda’s first dual sequential valve timing system (dual S-VT with electronically-operated intake) – in combination with the high compression ratio, this achieves an unconventional Miller cycle (extremely delayed closure of intake valves) that improves efficiency. It also has 30% less mechanical friction, due to a narrower crankshaft, new roller followers and low-tension piston rings that also reduce oil consumption.

Partnered with i-stop, Mazda’s unique idling stop system, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the lump – with more than 130 patents applied for it – promises a fuel economy of 30 km per litre (under Japan’s 10-15 mode test cycle).

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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Mazda has announced that the Mazda MINAGI Concept will make it into production as the new Mazda CX-5. The new name doesn’t come as a surprise really, since Mazda already has two larger SUVs called the CX-7 and the CX-9. The new CX-5 will join Mazda’s global line-up in 2012. Look after the jump for a photo gallery of the Mazda MINAGI Concept.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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An unlikely battle is set to happen in the Britcar MSA British Endurance Championship 2011, as Mazda will challenge Aston Martin, Porsche, Lotus, and BMW with an MX-5! This potential giant killer’s name is the MX-5 GT race car.

The main idea here is low weight. At just 850kg, the MX-5 GT will accelerate from 0-96 km/h (0-60 mph) in just three seconds and hit a top speed of 256 km/h (160 mph). Every nut and bolt was examined by Jota Sport to reduce component weight and create the lightest and most powerful MX-5 ever.

Weight saving strategies such as the removal of interior components, reducing component weight and dipping the shell in acid shaved 15 kg from the standard MX-5 race car. Included are mandatory FIA approved safety equipment including a roll cage, race seats and harness, external electric cut-off and fire extinguisher, safety catches on the bonnet and boot lids, competition steering wheel and alloy wheels.

The MX-5 GT features a modified Mazda engine that produces 275 bhp, a six-speed sequential paddle shift gearbox, carbon doors and polycarbonate windows. Jota claims that it took 400 hours to build the shell to a spec that’s 17 times stronger than required by the FIA.

The Britcar MSA British Endurance Championship is contested over nine races from March to November including a race at the Spa Francorchamps circuit in Belgium. This is the fourth time that Mazda has entered Britcar.

Hi res pics after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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With the introduction of the locally-assembled Mazda3, things are certainly looking up for the Malaysian consumer. The car is available in four variant forms, in 1.6 and 2.0 litre sedan and hatchback guise.

As expected, the pricing of all four versions are lower than previously, when the cars were imported, though whether you think the drop is significant enough considering the CKD/CBU conundrum is very much an individual perspective – there’ll be those who think it’s not enough, but for many, it might well mean a difference in viability now.

Price-wise, the 1.6 litre GL sedan goes for RM99,374 (solid) and RM99,774 (metallic), compared to RM111,249 before. Meanwhile, the 1.6 GL hatchback is priced at RM104,653 (solid) and RM105,053 (metallic), and was RM116,203 earlier.

As for the 2.0 GLS sedan, that goes for RM119,374 (solid) and RM119,774(metallic), more than 10k less than the previous RM131,249. The 2.0 GLS hatchback has the least change, its RM130,274 (solid) and RM130,674 (metallic) price a shade lower than the earlier RM135,999. All prices are retail, without insurance.

Specification-wise, there’s no change to the MZR pots’ outputs – the 1.6 litre unit develops 103 hp at 6,000 rpm and 144 Nm at 4,000 rpm, while the 2.0 litre unit cranks out 145 hp at 6,500 rpm and 182 Nm at 4,500 rpm. The 1.6-equipped versions come with a four-speed Activematic auto tranny, while the 2.0 litre jobs get a five-speed Activematic box.

In terms of standard features and equipment, the word is that nothing has been omitted with going local. With the exception of some interior trim differences, the cars get the same kaboodle of kit.

Common to all the cars are fog lamps, tilt and telescoping adjustable steering, multi-info display, dual front airbags, ABS with EBD and BA as well as an immobiliser and an alarm system.

Besides the above, the 1.6 GL and GLS features a manual control air-conditioner, a four-speaker audio system, and the car comes wearing 205/55 series tyres on 16-inch wheels.

The 2.0 litre variants get more, naturally, and these include bi-xenon headlamps, dual-zone fully auto air-conditioning, a six-speaker audio system, side and curtain airbags in addition to the dual front airbags and an auto dimming rear view mirror.

Additionally, you get rain sensing auto wipers, cruise control, paddle shifters and leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob on the 2.0, which has 17-inch wheels wearing 215/45 series tyres.

The availability of a locally-assembled Mazda3 speaks volume for Mazda’s confidence in the Malaysian market – the car’s CKD programme in Malaysia is the first to come about in Asean. Production began rolling out of the production line in January this year at the Inokom assembly plant in Kedah, where output is expected to be 3,000 units a year.

The claim is that the Malaysian-built Mazda3 will have the equivalent quality level of the CBU Mazda3, with Mazda’s production and engineering team working closely with the plant staff at the Inokom factory.

Four colour choices are available for the CKD Mazda3, and these are Aluminium Metallic, Gunmetal Blue Mica, Black Mica and Crystal White Pearl Mica.

The cars are available for viewing as part of the Mazda Motor Show display going on at the ground floor of the new wing of 1Utama Shopping Centre, where it’s slated to run until March 6. Any Mazda models booked during the show gets you the chance to win vouchers worth RM200 up to RM9,000 depending on the model purchased, which can then be redeemed for accessories purchases or offset as a cash discount.

The Mazda3 MPS was also officially launched today, following an earlier preview, and enters the hot hatch arena fight at RM175,109. The Mazda Performance Series gem is powered by a turbocharged MZR 2.3 litre DISI block offering 256 hp at 5,500rpm and 380 Nm of torque at 3,000rpm, working with a six-speed manual gearbox and a torque-sensing limited-slip differential.

Besides the MPS bits, which include a bodykit, red decoration panel, leather/cloth-mix seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearknob, standard equipment includes bi-xenon headlamps, a six-CD in-dash, 10 speaker Bose audio system and 225/40 series rubbers on 18-inch wheels.

Live gallery from the launch after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:53:15 +0000.

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