Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[REPORT: Ford and Mazda clarify future relationship, still strong]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/report-ford-and-mazda-clarify-future-relationship-still-strong/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/report-ford-and-mazda-clarify-future-relationship-still-strong/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/report-ford-and-mazda-clarify-future-relationship-still-strong/#comments Filed under: , ,

Click either image above for a high-res gallery

While Ford sold most of its controlling stake in Mazda last November, the two automakers will remain close partners as the companies work together to develop new automotive systems and technologies -- refuting previous reports that the two companies may be drifting apart. The announcement comes from top executives at both Ford and Mazda, which have been meeting recently to discuss further collaborations within the industry.

A strong relationship benefits both automakers. Ford needs Mazda for its insight into manufacturing, product development and its window into the Japanese auto industry. Mazda still relies on Ford for its powertrains (which Ford will continue to provide). The recently launched Ford Fiesta and Mazda2, built on a shared platform, are another example of how the two automakers can work together. The cars were originally engineered for other markets and not intended for sale in the States. When Ford's product strategy changed while they were under development, the two companies met and solved the critical design elements together, making each viable for the domestic market. Problems solved, the Fiesta and Mazda2 debuted at the LA Auto Show earlier this month and are going on sale next year.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Fiesta Hatchback


Gallery: 2011 Mazda2


[Source: The Detroit News]

REPORT: Ford and Mazda clarify future relationship, still strong originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> FordFord MotorFord Motor CoFord Motor Co.Ford Motor CompanyFordMotorFordMotorCoFordMotorCo.FordMotorCompanyMazdaMazda MotorsportsMazdaMotorsportsPartnershipRelationship Thu, 17 Dec 2009 08:28:00 EST <![CDATA[2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata to get SKY-G power, 50+ mpg?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/2011-mazda-mx-5-miata-to-get-sky-g-power-50-mpg/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/2011-mazda-mx-5-miata-to-get-sky-g-power-50-mpg/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/2011-mazda-mx-5-miata-to-get-sky-g-power-50-mpg/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Mazda MX-5 Miata Superlight Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Are big changes ahead for the Miata? As a blog that's gone on record as adoring the current iteration (and all previous - Ed.) of Mazda's quintessential sportscar, that notion is a bit worrisome. Still, it sounds as if the company is going in the right direction. According to Inside Line, the 2011 MX-5 Miata will shrink in size a bit with an expected curb weight of just 2,200 pounds. That low weight should pay big dynamic dividends as well as boost efficiency, but the big news on that front will be an all-new engine.

Powering the next-gen Miata will reportedly be either a 1.3-liter or 1.5-liter version of the four-cylinder SKY-G engine (G as in gasoline) that Mazda showed off earlier this year at the Tokyo Motor Show. With an expected power rating near 150 horsepower, the current model's power-to-weight ratio would remain intact (the 2009 model boasts 167 hp), and Mazda reportedly predicts the downsized mill will return in excess of 50 miles per gallon in the little sportscar. Consider our interest piqued.


Gallery: Mazda Superlight Concept

01-mazda-superlight-concept-press02-mazda-superlight-concept-press03-mazda-superlight-concept-press04-mazda-superlight-concept-press05-mazda-superlight-concept-press

[Source: Inside Line]

2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata to get SKY-G power, 50+ mpg? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 09:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 Mazda Miata2011 Mazda MX-52011 Mazda MX-5 Miata2011MazdaMiata2011MazdaMx-52011MazdaMx-5Miatamazdamazda miata superlightMazda MX-5Mazda MX-5 MiataMazda MX5mazda mx5 miataMazda SKYMazda SKY engineMazda SKY enginesmazda sky gMazdaMiataSuperlightMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-5MiataMazdaMx5MazdaMx5MiataMazdaSkyMazdaSkyEngineMazdaSkyEnginesMazdaSkyGMiatamx-5mx5 Fri, 11 Dec 2009 09:56:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Ford and Mazda may develop vehicles separately going forward]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/report-ford-and-mazda-may-develop-vehicles-separately-going-for/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/report-ford-and-mazda-may-develop-vehicles-separately-going-for/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/report-ford-and-mazda-may-develop-vehicles-separately-going-for/#comments Filed under: , , ,



For the last umpteen years (since about 1979, to be exact), Ford has owned a significant share of Japanese automaker Mazda, growing in 1997 to a 33.4-percent controlling stake. As such, the two automakers have historically shared a significant amount of resources and product architectures - a system that has helped both companies remain competitive in the increasingly tough automotive market.

At present, the Ford Fiesta, European Focus and Fusion sedan all borrow unseen bits and pieces from Mazda platforms, and the Japanese automaker offers its own versions of the Ford's compact and midsize crossovers.

Lately, though, it seems Ford and Mazda have been seeing less and less of each other. About a year ago, Ford sold off 20 percent of its stake in the Japanese company, and while it's likely the two automakers will continue to enjoy cooperation in some capacity, Bloomberg is reporting that product sharing may very well be diminished moving forward. Drat. And to think, for all these years, we've apparently been wasting our time holding out hope for a Ford-badged fixed-head coupe based on Mazda's ever-delightful MX-5 Miata.


[Source: Bloomberg]

REPORT: Ford and Mazda may develop vehicles separately going forward originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> fordford mazdaford mazda developmentford mazda platformsford mazda sharingford platformsFordMazdaFordMazdaDevelopmentFordMazdaPlatformsFordMazdaSharingFordPlatformsmazdamazda platformsMazdaPlatforms Fri, 04 Dec 2009 17:28:00 EST <![CDATA[LA 2009: Custom "Mazdaspeed2" tops the fun-per-pound charts in LA]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-mazdaspeed2-tops-the-fun-per-pound-charts-in-la/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-mazdaspeed2-tops-the-fun-per-pound-charts-in-la/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-mazdaspeed2-tops-the-fun-per-pound-charts-in-la/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Mazdaspeed2 Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

As cool as some of those custom Ford Fiestas are at the LA Auto Show, these even tidier Mazda2 customs really jumped out at us. Okay, maybe not all of the concepts so much as the "Mazdaspeed2" you see above. The Active2 Surf and Active2 Snow barely registered when we saw this green and grey fun machine. Dubbed the 2Evil Special and not really an official Mazdaspeed2 at all, this concept blends weekend track car with urban commuter in just the right proportions.

The other two concepts aren't quite as eye-catching as the 2Evil, but are fun nonetheless. The Active2 Surf has a slightly restyled exterior, 17-inch wheels, an H&R coil over suspension and was painted a bright green with MINI-like white wheels and mirror caps. We really dug the carbon fiber surfboard in the Thule roof rack, too. The Active2 Snow gets similar bodywork tweaks, along with the 17-inch wheels and the H&R setup with another Thule roof rack sporting matching snowboards.. Both cars also wear Active2 graphics. These two cars look like they are going to be easily duplicated by accessing the Mazda Accessories catalog.

Meanwhile, the 2Evil sits even lower thanks to its H&R coil-over setup, and is visually lowered even more courtesy of the aggressive body kit with its curb-scraping front lip and deep side skirts. The 2Evil also includes a new diffuser and spoiler in the back, limo-black windows, Le Mans-winning Mazda 787B tribute graphics, 17-inch wheels wrapped in Yokahama Advan tires, and a Magna performance exhaust system. The green highlights really bring the whole thing together to make it look like a spec series racer. Now if Mazda could just shoehorn in the Mazdaspeed3 turbo mill, they'd really be onto something. We can just imagine Grand-Am adding a CC (commuter car) class for fun little runabouts like this Mazda2, the MINI Cooper, Fiesta, Fiat 500, Honda Fit and the like.


Gallery: LA 2009: Custom Mazda2 Concepts


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading LA 2009: Custom "Mazdaspeed2" tops the fun-per-pound charts in LA

LA 2009: Custom "Mazdaspeed2" tops the fun-per-pound charts in LA originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 22:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShow2Evil2Evil Special2evilSpecialActive2Active2 SnowActive2 SurfActive2SnowActive2Surfla 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowmazdamazda2mazdaspeed2 Thu, 03 Dec 2009 22:02:00 EST <![CDATA[Inside Line editors pick their 'Most Wanted' for 2010 - do you agree?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/inside-line-editors-pick-their-most-wanted-do-you-agree/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/inside-line-editors-pick-their-most-wanted-do-you-agree/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/inside-line-editors-pick-their-most-wanted-do-you-agree/#comments Filed under: , , ,


Inside Line Most Wanted 2010 - Click above for high-res image gallery

We love award season, even if it is a bit tough to keep up with them all. Motor Trend has a set of golden calipers for its Car, Truck and SUV of the Year winners. Car and Driver has its 10Best. Automobile has the, well, the Automobile of the Year. Then there's Edmunds Inside Line and its six Most Wanted winners. Sure, Most Wanted doesn't enjoy the same sort of name recognition as the aforementioned awards, but at the very least, we tend to like the vehicles IL picks as their favorites. We also appreciate the fact that their selection process isn't exactly chock-full of rules. If they tested the vehicle before November 1, 2009, then it's eligible for Inside Line's six shooter. The only award category that truly stands out is the "Instant Classic," an award won over the last two years by the Audi R8 and the Nissan GT-R, respectively.

This year's list didn't have quite the raw power of last year's winners, but we can definitely see where the final six could be considered big fun on four wheels. The big winner is the 2010 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500. The 540-horsepower pony car picked up IL's Instant Classic award for being such a willing dance partner - even at 3,900 pounds. In fact, Blue Oval badges dominate this year's Most Wanted list, as the EcoBoost'd Flex and the wicked cool F-150 SVT Raptor made the final cut. Porsche scored with its new Panamera, while Audi found its way back on the list with the R8 V10. The cheap thrills Mazda3 rounds out this year's list. Click on the gallery below to check out Inside Line's Most Wanted winners in our high-res gallery, then let us know if you agree with their findings by leaving a note in 'Comments.'


Gallery: Inside Line Most Wanted 2009


[Source: Inside Line]

Inside Line editors pick their 'Most Wanted' for 2010 - do you agree? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Audi R8 V102010 Ford F-150 Raptor2010 Ford F-150 SVT raptor2010 Ford Flex2010 Ford Mustang Shelby GT5002010 Porsche Panamera2010AudiR8V102010FordF-150Raptor2010FordF-150SvtRaptor2010FordFlex2010FordMustangShelbyGt5002010PorschePanameraaudi R8audi r8 v10AudiR8AudiR8V10ecoboostEdmundsflex ecoboostFlexEcoboostford flexford raptorFord ustangFordFlexFordRaptorFordUstanginside lineInsideLinemazda 3mazda3most wantedMostWantedMustang GT500MustangGt500panameraporsche panameraPorschePanameraRaptorSVT Thu, 03 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST <![CDATA[LA 2009: Mazda unveils North American spec Mazda2 for 2011]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-mazda-mazda2-los-angeles-auto-show-2009-unveiled/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-mazda-mazda2-los-angeles-auto-show-2009-unveiled/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-mazda-mazda2-los-angeles-auto-show-2009-unveiled/#comments Filed under: , , ,


2011 Mazda2 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2011 Ford Fiesta may have been the big B-segment reveal last night, but Mazda has finally decided to bring its own compact runabout to North America, and it's based on the same architecture as it Blue Oval sibling. Originally launched in Europe, Japan, and Australia a couple of years ago, the Mazda2 was very well-received by media and consumers alike, a warm reception that probably helped make the case for the Japanese automaker to bring it over to the United States. That time has arrived, and the Mazda2 will be available in North America as a 2011 model.

Although Mazda revealed what the North American spec version will look like, it's still holding back additional information, including engine specifications, interior details, and pricing. We'll get more details soon, but in the meantime, check the full release after the jump and our live pics from the floor below.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Mazda2


Gallery: 2011 Mazda2


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2009: Mazda unveils North American spec Mazda2 for 2011

LA 2009: Mazda unveils North American spec Mazda2 for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 20112011 Mazda22011Mazda2lala 2009la auto showla auto show 2011 mazda2la showLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2011Mazda2LaShowmazdamazda2 Wed, 02 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #155 - 'Twas the night before the LA Auto Show...]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/autoblog-podcast-155-twas-the-night-before-the-la-auto-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/autoblog-podcast-155-twas-the-night-before-the-la-auto-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/autoblog-podcast-155-twas-the-night-before-the-la-auto-show/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,


Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

With the LA Auto Show near at hand, Chris, Dan, and Editor Extraordinaire Paukert sat down and talked over some of the latest for Episode #155 of the Autoblog Podcast. First up is the surprisingly thorough re-rework of the Mustang, before we move on to talk about the early release of U.S.-spec Ford Fiesta pictures. Gazing at photos brings us to the Chevrolet Cruze, which has also been lensed in North American garb. The Chinese-market Buick Excelle is rumored as a possibility for our market, and we scratch our heads about that for a while. Toyota's handling of its gas pedal recall and Nissan's low-priced and well-integrated navigation unit wraps it up before we move on to some of your questions. Right before signing off, we jump back to talk briefly about the newly unveiled Audi A8 and Saab's sad fortunes. At one hour, 50 minutes, it's an epic. We blame Paukert.

If you get bored once the new Autoblog Podcast bliss has worn off, check out our colleagues at Joystiq and Engadget. Let us know what you think by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening, we'll see you next week!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #155 - 'Twas the night before the LA Auto Show...

Autoblog Podcast #155 - 'Twas the night before the LA Auto Show... originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Ford Mustang2010FordMustang2011 mustang v62011MustangV6audi a8AudiA8auto showautoblogautoblog podcastAutoblogPodcastAutoShowbuickbuick excelleBuickExcellechevroletchevrolet cruzeChevroletCruzechevy cruzeChevyCruzefeaturedfiesta hatchfiesta hatchbackFiestaHatchFiestaHatchbackFord Fiestaford fiesta picturesFord fiesta sedanford fiesta unveilFordFiestaFordFiestaPicturesFordFiestaSedanFordFiestaUnveilla auto showLaAutoShowlos angeles auto showLosAngelesAutoShowlost angelesLostAngelesmustangmustang v6MustangV6nissan navigationNissanNavigationpodcastsaabsaab dealsaab koenigseggSaabDealSaabKoenigseggtoyota accelerationtoyota gas pedaltoyota pedaltoyota recallToyotaAccelerationToyotaGasPedalToyotaPedalToyotaRecallv6 mustangV6Mustang Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:31:00 EST Autoblog Podcast #155Autoblog1:49:25LA auto show; cruze; chevrolet cruze; buick excelle; toyota recall; fiesta; ford fiesta; toyota; nissan; nissan navigation; mustang; v6 mustang; mustang v6; autoblog podcast <![CDATA[LA Preview: Mazda2 to make its North American debut]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/la-preview-mazda2-to-make-its-north-american-debut/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/la-preview-mazda2-to-make-its-north-american-debut/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/la-preview-mazda2-to-make-its-north-american-debut/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2011 Mazda2 - click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda has finally made it official this morning: it will be bringing its B-segment Mazda2 to the North American market late next year. As you are likely aware, the current generation Mazda2 has been sale in Europe and elsewhere for two years, but we'll be seeing it here for the first time at the Los Angeles Auto Show in a couple of weeks. The Mazda2 shares its platform with the Ford Fiesta which will also make its U.S. production-spec debut at the West Coast show.

Mazda hasn't revealed any other details yet about powertrains or where the car will be sourced from. We expect a 1.6-liter four-cylinder to will be the primary engine. Judging by the teaser shot they released above, we can certainly expect to see the car at least in five-door hatchback form, but given that this is sedan-loving America, we would also expect a four-door with a trunk to show up in Mazda stores, although perhaps not at the LA Auto Show.


Gallery: 2007 Mazda2


[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading LA Preview: Mazda2 to make its North American debut

LA Preview: Mazda2 to make its North American debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA autoshowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009los angeleslos angeles auto showLosAngelesLosAngelesAutoShowmazdaMazda 2mazda2mazda2 north americamazda2 usMazda2NorthAmericaMazda2Us Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:31:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Mazda to slash weight by over 200 pounds in 2011]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/report-mazda-to-slash-weight-by-over-200-pounds-in-2011/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/report-mazda-to-slash-weight-by-over-200-pounds-in-2011/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/report-mazda-to-slash-weight-by-over-200-pounds-in-2011/#comments Filed under:


2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the original fuel crisis hit the States in the 1970s, automakers scrambled to make smaller, more efficient transportation. The result was a lot of ill-packaged front-wheel drive suck better left in the deepest recesses of our collective consciousness. Since the mid '80s though, vehicles (and people) began growing at a steady rate to the point that the typical C-segment sedan is bigger and heavier than the run of the mill '90s midsize sedan.

Mazda is no different than the competition when it comes to added tonnage, as product development chief Robert Davis tells Autoweek/Automotive News that each product cycle results in weight gain of about 80 pounds. That stops beginning in 2011, though, as the Japanese automaker begins dropping the weight of a typical Mazda by 220 pounds or more. Davis says the automaker will attack the problem from several angles, including using more aluminum and high strength steel, cutting the overall length of vehicles by three inches or more and utilizing smaller and more efficient powertrains. Mazda engineers are also being charged with finding innovative solutions to solve problems like how best to bond aluminum to steel. The automotive Weight Watchers plan will result in fuel economy gains of three to five percent without sacrificing safety.

The weight loss isn't likely to happen throughout Mazda's entire lineup all at once, though, instead opting to drop pounds as vehicles come up for redesign. Mazda will also work to lose the weight without sacrificing the brand's Zoom Zoom roots. One of the first Mazda models expected to benefit from the companies weight loss goals is the MX-5 Miata. Rumors have been flying for months that the next Miata will be lighter than the already feathery roadster we have today. We'd say lighter is almost always better as long as the weight subtraction doesn't come at the expense of structural rigidity.

We're all for Mazda cutting weight from all of its models, and we're hoping that other automakers follow suit. We're pretty sure we've had enough of 5,000 pounds SUVs and two-ton sedans, and we're guessing you have, too.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: AutoWeek]

REPORT: Mazda to slash weight by over 200 pounds in 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 220 lb weight loss220LbWeightLossmazdamazda miataMazdaMiatamx-5 miataMx-5Miataweight lossWeightLoss Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:31:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: World's only known four-rotor Mazda RX-8]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-worlds-only-known-four-rotor-mazda-rx-8/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-worlds-only-known-four-rotor-mazda-rx-8/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-worlds-only-known-four-rotor-mazda-rx-8/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,


BMI Racing Mazda RX-8 four-rotor - Click above for high-res image gallery

We came across this RX-8 at SEMA and it immediately rang a bell. Time Attack, four-rotor, Mazda RX-8? It's the BMI Racing car we saw on Streetfire a while back. It's said to be the only four-rotor RX-8 in the world and it looks and sounds incredible. Don't believe us? You can see a couple of videos after the jump and judge for yourself.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: 4-Rotor Mazda RX-8


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading SEMA 2009: World's only known four-rotor Mazda RX-8

SEMA 2009: World's only known four-rotor Mazda RX-8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 4 rotor4-rotor4-rotor Mazda4-rotor Mazda RX-84-rotor RX-84-rotorMazda4-rotorMazdaRx-84-rotorRx-84Rotorfour rotorfour-rotorFourRotormazdamazda rotarymazda rx-8Mazda RX8MazdaRotaryMazdaRx-8MazdaRx8rotaryrotary engineRotaryEngineRX-8RX8SEMAsema 2009Sema2009time attackTimeAttackwankel Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:40:00 EST <![CDATA[LA Auto Show Design Challenge reveals Youthmobile 2030 design entries]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/la-auto-show-design-challenge-reveals-youthmobile-2030-design-en/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/la-auto-show-design-challenge-reveals-youthmobile-2030-design-en/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/la-auto-show-design-challenge-reveals-youthmobile-2030-design-en/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

Mazda Souga Concept from LA Design Challenge 2009 - Click above for high-res image gallery

This year's iteration of the annual Design Challenge at the LA Auto Show asks the question: How will a new generation of drivers age 16-23, raised with cell phones, web cams and online communities, emotionally connect to the automobile in 2030? We don't know the answer either, but at least six designers from some of the world's top automakers decided to give it a go with their own ideas.

First up are the eSpira and eOra from Audi, which are controlled by thought and by the minutest adjustments to the pilot's body. Next we have the General Motors Car Hero... yes, the name is borrowed from the popular Guitar Hero line of games and the car, as you might imagine, "turns driving into gaming." What happens when the inevitable "Game Over" comes at the end? Moving along, we come to the Honda Helix, a shape-shifting vehicle that borrows actual DNA from its owner. Yuck, we don't want to be a car, we want to drive a car.

Which brings us to the Mazda Souga, easily our favorite out of this crop of concepts. Mazda's vision for the future would have each owner design his own car for the low price of $2,000 while paying an additional monthly usage fee that also covers the price of electricity to power the Souga.

Nissan's vision for the future includes cars that get their power from an electrically-charged roadway called the GRID, and the vowel-challenged V2G UNLMTD is quickly hacked into an OFF-GRID transportation device by the next breed of young hackers. Lastly, we have the Toyota Link. According to Toyota, future college students will have nearly no income and will rely on mass transit vehicles like the Link that allow them to interact via their various social networks on their daily commutes. Sounds boring to us, but what do we know?

Be sure to check out all six designs in the gallery below and let us know your favorites in the comments.


Gallery: LA Design Challenge 2009 Competitors

Audi eOra/eSpiraAudi eOra/eSpiraAudi eOra/eSpiraAudi eOra/eSpiraAudi eOra/eSpira

[Source: LA Design Challenge]

Continue reading LA Auto Show Design Challenge reveals Youthmobile 2030 design entries

LA Auto Show Design Challenge reveals Youthmobile 2030 design entries originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 19:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audi eoraaudi espiraAudiEoraAudiEspiradesign challengedesign challenge 2009DesignChallengeDesignChallenge2009general motors car heroGeneralMotorsCarHerohonda helixHondaHelixlala 2009la auto showLA Design challengeLA Design Challenge 2009La2009LaAutoShowLaDesignChallengeLaDesignChallenge2009mazda sougaMazdaSouganissan v2gnissan v2g unmltdNissanV2gNissanV2gUnmltdtoyota linkToyotaLink Thu, 05 Nov 2009 19:39:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Turbo rotary Mazda MX-5 begs to be flogged]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-turbo-rotary-mazda-mx-5-begs-to-be-flogged/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-turbo-rotary-mazda-mx-5-begs-to-be-flogged/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-turbo-rotary-mazda-mx-5-begs-to-be-flogged/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Turbo Rotary Mazda MX-5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you get the impression things are all high gloss and dubs in Vegas, you wouldn't be far off. But walk around the SEMA compound long enough and you come across something cool that that speaks to the gearhead, track rat in each of us.

Unfortunately, we don't have a lot of details about this red NA Mazda MX-5, but we do know it's been worked over by Mike Burlas Designs from Rialto, California, and it has a turbocharged 13B rotary underhood. Further, it has been kitted out with an adjustable suspension, upgraded brakes and what appears to be a fiberglass (or Kevlar) blistered fender kit.

But the crowning jewel is the carbon fiber fastback roof which the company is selling in fiberglass form for $1,800. It's not quite as cool as the MX-5 coupe concept from way-back-when, but it's nice to see the Miata getting some S2000-style fixed roof love in Sin City.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Turbo Rotary Mazda MX5/Miata

SEMA 2009: Turbo rotary Mazda MX-5 begs to be flogged originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 13b13b rotary13bRotaryBurlas DesignsBurlasDesignsLas VegasLasVegasMazda MiataMazda MX-5mazda rotaryMazdaMiataMazdaMx-5MazdaRotaryMiataMX-5MX5rotary engineRotaryEngineSemaSema 2009Sema2009wankel Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:20:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Mazda introduces us to a happy couple, inspires 3-some]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-mazda-introduces-us-to-a-happy-couple-inspires-3-som/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-mazda-introduces-us-to-a-happy-couple-inspires-3-som/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-mazda-introduces-us-to-a-happy-couple-inspires-3-som/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,


Customized 40th Anniversary 2010 Mazdaspeed3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

For SEMA 2009, Mazda introduced us to a pair of the happiest Mazda3 derivatives we've ever seen. Part Le Mans-winning 787B tribute, part rolling showcase (for their Mazda accessories catalog) and part 40th anniversary present to itself, this couple with their odd, knowing smiles was pretty easy on the eyes.

Built by Mazda R&D employees to show off the wide range of accessories available for the 2010 Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3, these tuner cars also serve as tributes to Mazda's motorsports prowess and to 40 years of Mazda sales in the U.S. The cars are painted in a Crystal White Pearl with gray graphics that mimics the Mazda3 World Challenge race car, which itself apes the look of the Le Mans-winning Mazda 787B from 1991. There are also plenty of other changes in the mix to make these special 3s go like they show.

Both cars get forged aluminum 19x8-inch wheels with 225/40 Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires stripped off the RX-8 R3, and KW coil-overs to button things down a bit, but that's about where the similarities end. The 2.5-liter engine in the Mazda3 sedan gets a thorough makeover by World Challenge-contending Tri-Point Engineering. With their Garrett GT2871R ball bearing turbo kit adding 10 psi of boost, the 2.5-liter MZR engine is now making more than 250 HP at the wheels.

The Mazdaspeed3 was already turbocharged but an AEM cold-air intake was added to increase its output by about 20 HP. Like the special Mazda3, this car gets KW coil-overs and the RX-8 R3 wheel/tire combo, but whereas the 3 got brakes from the Speed3 and Mazda5, this car gets four-piston StopTech calipers and floating two-piece rotors that are nearly identical to the ones used on the World Challenge car. We really like this sexy duo from Mazda and think we now know why they're smiling.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: 40th Anniversary Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3 customs


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading SEMA 2009: Mazda introduces us to a happy couple, inspires 3-some

SEMA 2009: Mazda introduces us to a happy couple, inspires 3-some originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 787BmazdaMazda 787Bmazda3Mazda787bMazdaSpeed3Rx-8RX-8 R3Rx-8R3SEMAsema 2009Sema2009Tri-Point EngineeringTri-pointEngineeringWorld ChallengeWorld Challenge Touring carWorldChallengeWorldChallengeTouringCar Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:59:00 EST <![CDATA[Mazda recalls nearly 40,000 B-Series pickups over cruise control issues]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/mazda-recalls-nearly-40-000-b-series-pickups-over-cruise-control/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/mazda-recalls-nearly-40-000-b-series-pickups-over-cruise-control/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/mazda-recalls-nearly-40-000-b-series-pickups-over-cruise-control/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Last month, Ford widened its cruise control switch recall to 4.5 million vehicles. Included in the growing list of cars and trucks was the Ford Ranger pickup - the mechanical twin to the now-discontinued Mazda B-Series pickup. Not surprisingly, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has now widened its recall to encompass 39,600 of Mazda's 1995-1997 and 2001-2003 trucks for the exact same fault.

According to the recall, trucks equipped with a Texas Instruments speed control deactivation switch (SCDS) and/or anti-lock brake system (ABS) manufactured on or before December 5, 2002, may encounter a vehicle fire if the switch deteriorates and leaks. As in the Ford recall, Mazda dealers will install a universal fused jumper harness on the cruise control deactivation switch at no charge.

Owners of the recalled vehicles may contact Mazda at 800-222-5500 (option #6), contact the NHTSA's Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236, or go to www.safercar.gov. Recall information after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Mazda recalls nearly 40,000 B-Series pickups over cruise control issues

Mazda recalls nearly 40,000 B-Series pickups over cruise control issues originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> B SeriesB-SeriesBSeriescruise controlcruise control recallcruise control switch firescruise recallCruiseControlCruiseControlRecallCruiseControlSwitchFiresCruiseRecallfaultfireMazdaMazda B-seriesMazda PickupMazdaB-seriesMazdaPickupPickupRecallspeed controlSpeedControlswitchTexas InstrumentsTexasInstruments Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #150 - Tokyo Motor Show Edition]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/autoblog-podcast-150-tokyo-motor-show-edition/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/autoblog-podcast-150-tokyo-motor-show-edition/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/autoblog-podcast-150-tokyo-motor-show-edition/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,


Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!


It's Episode #150 of the Autoblog Podcast, and we raided the crypt to give you your buck-and-a-half's worth. Former podcast staples John Neff and Chris Paukert have been unearthed and join Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid, and Dan Roth for this milestone occasion.

A review of the Tokyo Motor Show starts things off, and then we drill down to talk more specifically about both ends of Toyota's sports spectrum: the Lexus LFA and the Toyota FT-86 concepts. Other Tokyo standouts like the Honda CR-Z and Subaru Hybrid Tourer concept weave into the conversation before we turn to the next-generation Honda Civic, rumored to be lighter and smaller. From there, things devolve entirely before this week's big crew wraps it up.

We'll hit your questions again next time around, keep them rolling in to Podcast at Autoblog dot com. We appreciate you filling our survey with data, and remember, if you get lonely, there's always Joystiq and Engadget. Thanks for listening! You can also leave us a message at our new Google Voice number 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Who knows... we might even play it on the podcast!


Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #150 - Tokyo Motor Show Edition

Autoblog Podcast #150 - Tokyo Motor Show Edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> autoblogautoblog podcastfeaturedhonda civicHonda CR-Z Concepthonda cr-z concept 2009honda cr-z hybridhonda crzHondaCivicHondaCr-zConceptHondaCr-zConcept2009HondaCr-zHybridHondaCrzLexus LF-Alexus lfaLexusLf-aLexusLfapodcastpodcast 150subaru tourer conceptSubaruTourerConcepttokyotokyo 2009Tokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoAutoSalonTokyoAutoShowTokyoMotorShowToyota FT-86Toyota FT-86 ConceptToyotaFt-86ToyotaFt-86Concept Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:20:00 EST Autoblog Podcast #150Autoblog01:27:00autoblog podcast; podcast 150; tokyo motor show; lexus lfa; lexus lf-a; lexus supercar; honda civic; honda crz; honda; <![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Mazda's Sky G and Sky D engines should come with straws for sipping]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/tokyo-2009-mazdas-sky-g-and-sky-d-engines-should-come-with-str/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/tokyo-2009-mazdas-sky-g-and-sky-d-engines-should-come-with-str/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/tokyo-2009-mazdas-sky-g-and-sky-d-engines-should-come-with-str/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Mazda Sky D and Sky G engines -- Click above for high-res image gallery

The Mazda Sky D diesel and Sky G gasoline engines are meant to bring "everlasting blue sky" to oversee "sustainable Zoom-Zoom." Both utilize low-friction engine blocks, direct injection and piezo-electric injectors. The Sky G is fitted with a "highly functional variable valve timing mechanism," and the Sky D gets a 2-stage turbocharger besides.

Together with technologies such as the Sky Drive 6-speed transmission, i-stop, regenerative braking and lighter vehicles, these lumps will form the core of Mazda's goal of a 30% increase in fuel economy in the coming years. You can read more about them after the jump, and check them out in the gallery of high-res photos below.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Mazda Sky D engine


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Mazda Sky G engine


Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Tokyo 2009: Mazda's Sky G and Sky D engines should come with straws for sipping

Tokyo 2009: Mazda's Sky G and Sky D engines should come with straws for sipping originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> dieselEngineermazdaMazda SKYmazda sky dMazda SKY engineMazda SKY enginesmazda sky gMazdaSkyMazdaSkyDMazdaSkyEngineMazdaSkyEnginesMazdaSkyGsky dSky Digitalsky gSkyDSkyDigitalSkyGSkylinesustainable zoomsustainable zoom zoomSustainable Zoom-Zoomsustainable zoomzoomSustainableZoomSustainableZoom-zoomSustainableZoomZoomtechtechnologytokyotokyo 2009Tokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoMotorShow Fri, 23 Oct 2009 16:29:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Mazda's next-generation rotary needs more work]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/report-mazdas-next-generation-rotary-needs-more-work/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/report-mazdas-next-generation-rotary-needs-more-work/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/report-mazdas-next-generation-rotary-needs-more-work/#comments Filed under: , ,

2009 Mazda RX-8 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Though the rotary engine certainly has its fair share of detractors, many who find themselves behind the wheel of a Wankel-powered machine from Mazda fall in love with the engine's zippy and rev-happy characteristics... including this particular blogger, who purchased a new RX-8 back in 2004. Regardless, nobody can deny that the rotary has always been a thirsty little bugger, especially when compared to powerplants with similarly rated displacements.

We've been hearing for the last few years - and seemingly every other time a new rendition of the Wankel engine came to market - that the next version of Mazda's rotary would address complaints about its high fuel consumption and emissions. Perhaps the early projections about the so-called 16X engine were a wee bit premature. According to Seita Kanai, head of R&D at Mazda:
The 16X demonstrated the possibility, but that performance is not good enough. We are doing R&D which will incorporate more new technology... The 16X is more a profile of a rotary still in our concept stage. It needs more evolution.
That really doesn't sound all that confidence inspiring to us. At this point, only time will tell if the 16X will actually be ready for prime time when the long-rumored next-gen rotary-powered car from Mazda hits the scene in 2012 or so.


Gallery: 2009 Mazda RX-8 R3


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

REPORT: Mazda's next-generation rotary needs more work originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 16X16X renesis16x rotary16xRenesis16xRotarymazdamazda rotaryMazda RX-7mazda rx-8mazda rx-9Mazda RX7Mazda RX8MazdaRotaryMazdaRx-7MazdaRx-8MazdaRx-9MazdaRx7MazdaRx8rotaryrotary engineRotaryEngineWankelwankel rotarywankel-rotaryWankelRotary Fri, 23 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST <![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Mazda RX-500 still awesome nearly 40 years later]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-mazda-rx-500-still-awesome-nearly-40-years-later/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-mazda-rx-500-still-awesome-nearly-40-years-later/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-mazda-rx-500-still-awesome-nearly-40-years-later/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


1970 Mazda RX-500 Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

One of the coolest concept cars here at the Tokyo Motor Show isn't even new. In fact, it's almost forty years old. Originally displayed at the Tokyo show in 1970, this Mazda RX-500 Concept features styling similar to the legendary Ferrari 250 GTO Breadvan, gullwing doors that swing forward, and a 491cc rotary engine just behind the seats. Weighing in at just 1873 pounds, the 247-horsepower concept was said to have reached nearly 150 mph on Mazda's test track.

The car was recently restored in partnership with the Hiroshima City Transportation Museum where it has apparently been on display for the last year. Lucky for us, they decided to bring it to the show for us to enjoy as well. Check out this unique bit of retro-conceptual genius in our high-res gallery below.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: 1970 Mazda RX-500 Concept


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Tokyo 2009: Mazda RX-500 still awesome nearly 40 years later originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1970 Mazda RX-500 Concept1970MazdaRx-500Concept2009 Tokyo Motor Show2009TokyoMotorShowbreadvangull-winggullwingHiroshima City Transportation MuseumHiroshimaCityTransportationMuseumMazdaMazda RX-500 ConceptMazda RX500 ConceptMazdaRx-500ConceptMazdaRx500Conceptrotaryrotary engineRotaryEngineRX-500 ConceptRx-500ConceptTokyo 2009Tokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoMotorShowwankel Thu, 22 Oct 2009 10:20:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Mazda's design chief working on new RX-7]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/report-mazdas-design-chief-working-on-new-rx-7/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/report-mazdas-design-chief-working-on-new-rx-7/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/report-mazdas-design-chief-working-on-new-rx-7/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Click above for a high-res gallery of past Mazda RX-7s

We've been hearing rumblings about a Mazda RX-7 revival for so long, we've almost gotten numb to the idea of a next-generation, rotary-powered coupe. But Mazda's new design chief, Ikua Maeda, has given us a desperately needed hope injection when he told Autocar that initial sketches have been completed and he's campaigning Mazda execs to bring the new sports car to market.

The reborn RX-7 will likely be powered by Mazda's next generation Renesis 16X rotary engine, most recently seen in the Mazda Taiki concept, displacing 1.6-liters and making use of a longer stroke, direct injection and aluminum side housings. Outputs haven't been disclosed, but it's safe to assume the new mill will put out around 250 to 300 horsepower and a sizeable increase in torque, while boosting fuel economy and reducing emissions (and hopefully burning less oil in the process).

Maeda says the new RX-7 will move further upmarket than its predecessors, with a focus on higher interior quality going forward. Fine by us, but we hope a hardcore, track-focused version is in the cards as well. And if Maeda is to be believed, we could see the fruits of his labors in concept form as early as next year.


Gallery: Mazda RX-7


[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Mazda's design chief working on new RX-7 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 20112011 mazda rx-72011 mazda rx72011MazdaRx-72011MazdaRx72012 mazda rx-72012 mazda rx72012MazdaRx-72012MazdaRx7mazdarx-7rx7 Tue, 20 Oct 2009 15:28:00 EST <![CDATA[Tokyo Preview: Mazdaspeed3-powered Supasse V supercar]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/tokyo-preview-mazdaspeed3-powered-supasse-v-supercar/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/tokyo-preview-mazdaspeed3-powered-supasse-v-supercar/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/tokyo-preview-mazdaspeed3-powered-supasse-v-supercar/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

UPDATE: Higher res images added to the gallery and press release added after the jump

2010 Suzusho Supasse V - Click above for image gallery

Picture if you will, an exotic car that takes a few stylistic cues from the Pagani Zonda and Ferrari Enzo, then distills them into a package the size of a Lotus Exige. Now imagine if it was powered by a tuned 2.3-liter DOHC turbo engine from the Mazdaspeed3 channeled through that car's six-speed gearbox. And further ponder that the vehicle in question weighs 1,300 pounds less its powertrain donor. That's right, a 270 hp exotic that weighs just 1,874 lbs. Sound like it's something you'd like to take a closer look at?

The Surpasse V, an all-new vehicle by Japanese kit car specialist Suzusho, will make its debut at this month's Tokyo Motor Show, featuring an "aluminum twin-tube monocoque spaceframe" and fiberglass body. Although evocative of many other cars, the design is purposeful and penned by F1 designer Kenji Mimura, and on paper, it sounds like a direct challenger to the 2009 Lotus Exige S260.

Although It would be easy to dismiss the Surpasse V as just another kit car with big power and no handling, Suzusho has plenty of experience building lightweight cars that handle extremely well. The bulk of their business is in Lotus 7 replicas, and while we're not sure it will truly compete head-to-head with the Hethel hauler, it looks promising.

Pricing is expected to be in the Exige-like $50,000-$80,000 range too when the Suzusho Supasse V goes on sale in the middle of 2010.

Gallery: 2010 Suzusho Supasse V


[Source: Suzusho via WorldCarFans]

Continue reading Tokyo Preview: Mazdaspeed3-powered Supasse V supercar

Tokyo Preview: Mazdaspeed3-powered Supasse V supercar originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Suzusho Supasse V2010SuzushoSupasseVSupasseSuzushoSuzusho SupasseSuzusho Supasse VSuzushoSupasseSuzushoSupasseVTokyo Motor Showtokyo motor show 2009Tokyo previewTokyoMotorShowTokyoMotorShow2009TokyoPreview Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:00:00 EST