Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[2013 North American Car and Truck/Utility of the Year finalists announced [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/2013-north-american-car-and-truck-utility-of-the-year-finalists/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/2013-north-american-car-and-truck-utility-of-the-year-finalists/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/2013-north-american-car-and-truck-utility-of-the-year-finalists/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

North American Car of the Year crystal award

2012 is almost in the books and automakers are spending December gearing up for the 2013 auto show season, which tips off next month at the Detroit Auto Show. Traditionally, the latter opens up with the announcement of the North American Car and Truck/Utility of the Year awards, and this year figures to be no different.

But up until this moment, we didn't know which six vehicles would be parked ahead of the stage as finalists, with executives and engineers waiting for the winners to be disclosed. Whittled down from October's "short list" of nominees (11 cars and 10 truck/utility vehicles), the finalists are as follows:

2013 North American Car of the Year:
2013 North American Truck/Utility of the Year:
As determined by a non-profit, independent jury of 50 US and Canadian journalists(*), the pair of lists above arguably feature a surprise or two, and they open up some potentially interesting story lines. Will the Ford and Honda, which compete against each other in the marketplace, split votes among jurors who only want to vote for one family sedan? Did the Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ twins miss making the finalists' list because they were listed as separate entries, or did they just not win over enough jurors? Until the voting patterns of the jurors are released (after the awards are announced), we won't really know if any of these scenarios played into the calculations.

What do you think of these six vehicles? Which would you vote for? Which do you think will win? Participate in our polls below by guessing which vehicles will win, then state your case for who should win in Comments.

*Full disclosure: Author is a NACTOY jury member.

View Poll


View Poll

Continue reading 2013 North American Car and Truck/Utility of the Year finalists announced [w/poll]

2013 North American Car and Truck/Utility of the Year finalists announced [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002013 cadillac ats2013 ford c-max2013 ford fusion2013 honda accord2013 mazda cx-52013 ram 1500accordatsc-maxcadillaccx-5fordfusionhondamazdanactoynorth american car of the yearNorth American truck of the yearnorth american truck utility of the yearramWed, 12 Dec 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20400146/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/12/2013-north-american-car-and-truck-utility-of-the-year-finalists/20400146/article-detail.xml 20400146 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/nactoy-award-crystal_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/nactoy-award-crystal.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda brings trio of tricked-out CX-5s to Vegas]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/mazda-cx-5-180-dempsey-urban-sema-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/mazda-cx-5-180-dempsey-urban-sema-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/mazda-cx-5-180-dempsey-urban-sema-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mazda CX-5 Concepts

We at Autoblog do love us some Mazda CX-5 - it is, without a doubt, the best-driving compact crossover in the segment. And since 2013 is the CX-5's first model year here in the States, it only makes sense that Mazda has used the 2012 SEMA Show to give us an idea of just how far its CX-5 can reach in terms of design and functionality.

First up is the CX-5 180, ready to hit the beach with its attached Rusty surfboard or take to the slopes with a Burton Cheetah snowboard. Its blue-and-black color scheme features a topographical map graphic of southern California hot spots like Big Bear Lake and Point Dume. Other upgrades include black chrome 20-inch wheels wrapped in Goodyear Eagle F1 tires, and a new matte red finish along the grille adds a funky accent to the front fascia. Inside, aqua leather has been fitted to many of the CX-5's touchable surfaces, and there are contrasting bright white leather inserts on the door panels, seats and steering wheel.

Moving on to darker tones, the CX-5 Dempsey - named for Mazda racing driver and Dr. McDreamy Patrick Dempsey - shows the first application of the automaker's 2.2-liter Skyactiv-D diesel engine on a North American-spec CX-5, mated to a six-speed manual transmission. (Well-placed foreshadowing, we hope.) Like the 180, the Dempsey CX-5 rides on dark chrome 20-inch wheels, and its paint scheme is meant to mimic the high-performance, competitive architecture of the specialized bicycle racer - cycling is one of Dempsey's big interests, after all. To that end, there's a Thule T2 carrier holding an S-Works Tarmac SL4 Red bike that features a carbon fiber frame with red highlights.

Last, but certainly not least, is perhaps our favorite of the CX-5 concepts. In terms of design, anyway. The CX-5 Urban might simply look like it's painted in a matte finish, but upon closer inspection, you'll see the multi-dimensional shadows with triangular patterns woven into the paint finish. It's seriously cool, as are the extended wheel flares that house new 22-inch matte black wheels.

Scroll down for the full details, and click through the attached image galleries for views of all three CX-5s from every angle.

Continue reading Mazda brings trio of tricked-out CX-5s to Vegas

Mazda brings trio of tricked-out CX-5s to Vegas originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Oct 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mazda cx-5cx-5cx-5 180cx-5 dempseycx-5 urbanmazdasemasema 2012Tue, 30 Oct 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20365810/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/30/mazda-cx-5-180-dempsey-urban-sema-2012/20365810/article-detail.xml 20365810 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/mazda-cx-5-sema-2012_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/mazda-cx-5-sema-2012.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ford Escape vs. 2013 Mazda CX-5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/2013-ford-escape-vs-2013-mazda-cx-5-comparison-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/2013-ford-escape-vs-2013-mazda-cx-5-comparison-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/2013-ford-escape-vs-2013-mazda-cx-5-comparison-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Brothers From Another Mother Face Off

2013 Ford Escape vs 2013 Mazda CX-5

Not a single part is shared between these two crossovers.

We couldn't do this comparison test a year ago. No, not because the CX-5 is a new nameplate and all-new vehicle for the Mazda brand (okay, that's technically a valid reason), but because until now, Mazda's only small crossover offering was the Tribute - a rebadged version of the trusty last-gen Ford Escape. In fact, it's always been sort of tricky to put Ford and Mazda vehicles in the same comparison test, only because nearly every product in Mazda's stable could be traced back to some sort of Ford platform.

But with the two automakers having officially parted ways, Mazda was forced to create an all-new platform for a small crossover that would play in the same segment as the Escape. And under the lights of the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show last November, both the 2013 CX-5 and 2013 Escape debuted, with representatives from Ford and Mazda alike reassuring us that not a single part is shared between the two crossovers, noting that the two companies were in no way involved in the development of each other's vehicle.

That in mind, we thought it best to pit the Escape and CX-5 against one another to see how the family lines have matured after the divorce.

Continue reading 2013 Ford Escape vs. 2013 Mazda CX-5

2013 Ford Escape vs. 2013 Mazda CX-5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escape2013 mazda cx-5comparisoncomparisonscomparocx-5cx5ecoboostescapefeaturedfordmazdaskyactivWed, 24 Oct 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20358385/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/24/2013-ford-escape-vs-2013-mazda-cx-5-comparison-review/20358385/article-detail.xml 20358385 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/cuv-comparo-ford-escape-mazda-cx-5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/cuv-comparo-ford-escape-mazda-cx-5.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5 earn four-star NHTSA crash rating]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/21/ford-escape-mazda-cx-5-earn-four-star-nhtsa-crash-rating/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/21/ford-escape-mazda-cx-5-earn-four-star-nhtsa-crash-rating/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/21/ford-escape-mazda-cx-5-earn-four-star-nhtsa-crash-rating/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The 2013 Ford Escape and 2013 Mazda CX-5 are both impressive new crossovers that bring plenty to the table for buyers. Top safety marks, however, seem to have been left off of the menu.

These popular new crossovers are just the first of among 54 new cars to be tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and both received a four-star overall crash rating, out of a possible five stars.

While a four-star rating is still pretty respectable, this announcement does come on the heels of three separate recalls that have been issued for the new Escape since its introduction this summer. The good news for Ford, at least, is that the new model received a five-star rating for side impact. That, with four stars for frontal crash and rollover protection, add up to the four-star overall rating. The all-new Mazda CUV duplicated those scores.

Despite not getting a perfect five stars, each of these vehicles are safer than their respective predecessors, the previous-generation Escape and the Mazda Tribute, which had three stars across all four categories.

Also in the list of crossovers getting a four-star rating is the updated 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport although this is the same as the 2012 model year.

Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5 earn four-star NHTSA crash rating originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Sep 2012 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escape2013 mazda cx-5crash safetycrossover safetycx-5escapefordmazdanational highway trafiic safety administrationnhtsaFri, 21 Sep 2012 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20328890/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/21/ford-escape-mazda-cx-5-earn-four-star-nhtsa-crash-rating/20328890/article-detail.xml 20328890 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-ford-escape-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-ford-escape-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda seen raising production of CX-5 as Skyactiv engine capacity doubled]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/03/mazda-seen-raising-production-of-cx-5-as-skyactiv-engine-capacit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/03/mazda-seen-raising-production-of-cx-5-as-skyactiv-engine-capacit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/03/mazda-seen-raising-production-of-cx-5-as-skyactiv-engine-capacit/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Mazda CX-5 - silver, front three-quarter view

We've grown quite fond of Mazda's new Skyactiv engine range, and apparently, we aren't the only ones. High demand for these engines has caused Mazda to double its production of both the gasoline and diesel four-cylinder engines, and starting in October, the automaker will produce 800,000 of these efficient engines globally, up from 400,000.

In the United States, the 2.0-liter gasoline engine is the only Skyactiv unit currently available, found under the hood of the Mazda CX-5 (pictured) and select Mazda3 models. Elsewhere in the world, CX-5s can be had with a 2.2-liter Skyactiv-D turbodiesel engine, which we had a chance to test (and fall in love with) in Iceland. The automaker has confirmed that its next-generation Mazda6 sedan will be available with both of these four-cylinder engines, though it's unclear if the diesel will be available Stateside. (Mazda has confirmed it will market an oilburner in the U.S. in the near-term, but it hasn't revealed which vehicle will get it).

Part of the reason for this Skyactiv engine increase is the strong early demand globally for the new CX-5 crossover. Mazda will be upping production from 200,000 units annually to 240,000, all of which are built at the automaker's Ujina, Japan facility. Because of strong demand since the crossover hit dealerships in February, Mazda has increased its global sales target from 160,000 units to 190,000.

Scroll down for the full press blast.

Continue reading Mazda seen raising production of CX-5 as Skyactiv engine capacity doubled

Mazda seen raising production of CX-5 as Skyactiv engine capacity doubled originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Jul 2012 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mazda cx-5cx-5cx5mazdaskyactivskyactiv-gTue, 03 Jul 2012 15:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20271061/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/03/mazda-seen-raising-production-of-cx-5-as-skyactiv-engine-capacit/20271061/article-detail.xml 20271061 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2013-mazda-cx-5-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2013-mazda-cx-5-fd.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Mazda CX-5 meets <i>The Six Million Dollar Man</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/29/2013-mazda-cx-5-meets-the-six-million-dollar-man/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/29/2013-mazda-cx-5-meets-the-six-million-dollar-man/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/29/2013-mazda-cx-5-meets-the-six-million-dollar-man/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Mazda CX-5 Ad

Mazda has given the 2013 CX-5 The Six Million Dollar Man treatment in a new ad. As we all know, the crossover segment is rife with compromise. With half the capability of an SUV and none of the driving dynamics of an equivalent hatchback, most of the vehicles hold all the appeal of venereal disease for most enthusiasts. If Mazda's marketing is to be believed, the 2013 CX-5 cures those ails, as it were. Along with the best fuel economy of any SUV in North America, the vehicle promises to offer buyers a more spirited driving experience.

Expect to see more of The Six Million Dollar Man associated with the CX-5. Mazda is launching a campaign on April 2 that will include spots on television, in movies, print and various digital spaces. Each spot will come soaked in an appropriate amount of 1970s vintage feel. Hit the jump for a look at the first ad as well as the full press release.

Continue reading 2013 Mazda CX-5 meets The Six Million Dollar Man

2013 Mazda CX-5 meets The Six Million Dollar Man originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mazda cx-5advertisingcx-5mazdathe six million dollar manvideoThu, 29 Mar 2012 13:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20203134/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/29/2013-mazda-cx-5-meets-the-six-million-dollar-man/20203134/article-detail.xml 20203134 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2013-mazda-cx-5-ad-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2013-mazda-cx-5-ad-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Mazda CX-5 latest to get IIHS Top Safety Pick laurels [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/2013-mazda-cx-5-latest-to-get-iihs-top-safety-pick-laurels-w-vi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/2013-mazda-cx-5-latest-to-get-iihs-top-safety-pick-laurels-w-vi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/2013-mazda-cx-5-latest-to-get-iihs-top-safety-pick-laurels-w-vi/#commentsFiled under: , ,

IIHS 2013 Mazda CX-5 crash test

Mazda's new compact crossover is coming out of the gate strong, with the 2013 CX-5 garnering generally good reviews that include praise for its fuel economy and best-in-class handling. Now, Mazda can tout a Top Safety Pick designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, as well. The CX-5 snagged "Good" ratings across the board, including front, side, rollover and rear crash tests.

The CX-5 joins its stablemate, the Mazda3, on the 2012 Top Safety Pick list, which is growing rapidly. Just in the small SUV class that the CX-5 is categorized in, eight models are now listed, including the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Patriot (with optional side torso airbags), Kia Sportage, Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, Subaru Forester and Volkswagen Tiguan.

Click past the jump to read the full press release from Mazda, as well as watch the CX-5's IIHS crash test video.

Continue reading 2013 Mazda CX-5 latest to get IIHS Top Safety Pick laurels [w/video]

2013 Mazda CX-5 latest to get IIHS Top Safety Pick laurels [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mazda cx-5cx-5iihsinsurance institute for highway safetymazdaWed, 21 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20197388/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/21/2013-mazda-cx-5-latest-to-get-iihs-top-safety-pick-laurels-w-vi/20197388/article-detail.xml 20197388 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/mazda-cx-5-iihs-crash-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/mazda-cx-5-iihs-crash-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Mazda CX-5 configurator zips online]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/15/2013-mazda-cx-5-configurator-zips-online/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/15/2013-mazda-cx-5-configurator-zips-online/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/15/2013-mazda-cx-5-configurator-zips-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mazda CX-5 configurator

If you've got that compact crossover itch that only something as sporting as the Mazda CX-5 can scratch, you're in luck. The smallest Mazda crossover is on sale now, and its online configurator tool is live.

Starting price is $20,695 plus a $795 destination charge, for a total of $21,490. That kind of cash will get you a front-drive CX-5 Sport with a six-speed manual. Opting for all-wheel-drive will force you to also take the six-speed automatic and bump the price to $24,140. (The manual transmission is not available with any of the higher trim levels, either.) Like most Mazda models, the Touring model is the next rung up the ladder, with prices starting at $24,690 for FWD and $25,940 for AWD. Grand Touring models are the most loaded CX-5 models, at $27,840 and $29,090, respectively.

We liked the CX-5 quite a bit when we drove a preproduction model last November and look forward to getting some quality time behind the wheel of the actual production model soon. Click past the jump for the full pricing press release, then bounce on over to the configurator.

Continue reading 2013 Mazda CX-5 configurator zips online

2013 Mazda CX-5 configurator zips online originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 18:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mazda cx-5cx-5cx-5 configuratorcx-5 pricingcx5cx5 pricingmazdamazda cx-5 configuratorThu, 15 Mar 2012 18:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20193195/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/15/2013-mazda-cx-5-configurator-zips-online/20193195/article-detail.xml 20193195 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/mazdacx5config-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/mazdacx5config-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda CX-5 joins the cast of <i>Dr. Seuss' The Lorax</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/20/mazda-cx-5-joins-the-cast-of-dr-seuss-the-lorax/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/20/mazda-cx-5-joins-the-cast-of-dr-seuss-the-lorax/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/20/mazda-cx-5-joins-the-cast-of-dr-seuss-the-lorax/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Aston Martin has the chap Bond, Acura has its Avengers and now Mazda has its own movie vehicle, Dr. Seuss' The Lorax. The computer-generated film from Universal will feature a "Seuss-ified" Mazda CX-5 rolling through a forest of lollipop-like truffula trees.

It's a slightly strange movie for a car company to call its own, since the original book was a enviromentalist tale and the Lorax - who spoke for the truffula trees against the industrial ambitions of the Once-ler - complained even more when trucks began rolling into the forest. The case is aided by the fact that Universal got rid of that storyline almost completely, and Mazda's Skyactiv credentials are what's really in play here.

Follow the jump for Mazda's 45-second commercial for the CX-5 and the movie, as well as a press release on its donations to the National Education Association.

Continue reading Mazda CX-5 joins the cast of Dr. Seuss' The Lorax

Mazda CX-5 joins the cast of Dr. Seuss' The Lorax originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mazda cx-5cx-5dr seussmazdathe loraxvideoMon, 20 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20174945/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/20/mazda-cx-5-joins-the-cast-of-dr-seuss-the-lorax/20174945/article-detail.xml 20174945 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/mazdathelorax_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/mazdathelorax.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Mazda CX-5 priced from $20,695*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/2013-mazda-cx-5-priced-from-20-695/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/2013-mazda-cx-5-priced-from-20-695/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/2013-mazda-cx-5-priced-from-20-695/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Mazda's attractive and fun-to-drive 2013 CX-5 goes on sale this month, and the automaker's North American arm has just announced that it will be priced from $20,695 (*not including $795 for destination). That's a higher base price than competitors like the Hyundai Tuscon, Kia Sportage and Subaru Forester, but the CX-5 boasts some of the best driving dynamics in the segment, not to mention the best fuel economy numbers in the class.

That $20,695 price point refers, of course, to the CX-5 Sport with the (remarkably good) six-speed manual transmission. Opting for the six-speed automatic will set you back an additional $1,400, and if you want to add all-wheel drive, be prepared to dish out another $1,250. Moving up, Touring models with either front- or all-wheel drive start at $23,895 and $25,145, respectively, and are only available with the six-speed automatic gearbox. Lastly, the range-topping Grand Touring comes in at $27,045 (FWD) and $28,295 (AWD), and with the $1,325 technology package added to the GT trim, you'll be looking at $29,620 for a fully loaded CX-5.

The 2013 CX-5 uses Mazda's brand new 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G gasoline engine, along with a host of other weight-saving technologies. We've driven the CX-5 on two different occasions, and while we're quite impressed with the steering, manual gearbox and suspension, we wish interior refinement were a bit better. Still, Mazda is positioning the CX-5 as the enthusiast's small crossover, and we're inclined to agree. Follow the jump for Mazda's official pricing release.

Continue reading 2013 Mazda CX-5 priced from $20,695*

2013 Mazda CX-5 priced from $20,695* originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mazda cx-5cx-5mazdapricingMon, 06 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165240/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/06/2013-mazda-cx-5-priced-from-20-695/20165240/article-detail.xml 20165240 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/03-2013-mazda-cx-5-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/03-2013-mazda-cx-5-fd.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Mazda CX-5 achieves best-in-class 26/35 mpg EPA rating]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2013-mazda-cx-5-achieves-best-in-class-26-35-mpg-epa-rating/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2013-mazda-cx-5-achieves-best-in-class-26-35-mpg-epa-rating/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2013-mazda-cx-5-achieves-best-in-class-26-35-mpg-epa-rating/#commentsFiled under: ,

2013 Mazda CX-5 front three-quarter

Mazda has released the official EPA fuel economy figures for its 2013 CX-5, and as anticipated, the new compact crossover has achieved an all-important best-in-class designation. The front-wheel-drive, six-speed manual-equipped CX-5 is rated at 26 miles per gallon city and 35 mpg highway, thanks to Mazda's efficient Skyactiv direct-injection 2.0-liter inline-four. In fact, Mazda claims the CX-5 actually gets the best fuel economy rating of any SUV (read: crossover) sold in America, full stop.

CX-5 models equipped with front-wheel drive and Mazda's new Skyactiv six-speed automatic transmission are good for 26/32 miles per gallon city/highway. And while those highway numbers match up with the four-cylinder Chevrolet Equinox, the Mazda's 26 mpg city rating bests the Chevy by a whopping four mpg. All-wheel-drive CX-5s are rated at 25/31 mpg city/highway. Follow the jump for Mazda's official release.

Continue reading 2013 Mazda CX-5 achieves best-in-class 26/35 mpg EPA rating

2013 Mazda CX-5 achieves best-in-class 26/35 mpg EPA rating originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Most Functional Miata Money Can Buy



Now, before you furiously fire off angry comments about the absolute blasphemy of soiling the Miata's good name in reference to a crossover, hear us out. Mazda has told us over and over again that everything it has learned from the Miata project has directly influenced its new products. Case in point: the Mazda2. It's the least-powerful offering in its class, but we'll go on record as saying that it's the most entertaining B-segment car offered in the United States. The Mazda2's success is built upon its superb steering, great manual gearbox and well-balanced suspension geometry - you know, just like the Miata.

So how does this philosophy play out on a much larger vehicle like the 2013 Mazda CX-5 - a new entry in an extremely competitive class filled with big names like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape? Does Mazda's theory of Zoom-Zoom Above All work in a segment that largely values function over fun?

Just days after the its official debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Mazda let us loose in some pre-production CX-5s along the sun-drenched roads of southern California. Here, on the twisty roads through the canyons, it's easy to see what the CX-5 is all about.

Continue reading 2013 Mazda CX-5

2013 Mazda CX-5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mazda cx-5cx-5cx5featuredfirst driveFirstDrivemazdaTue, 06 Dec 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20121305/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/06/2013-mazda-cx-5-first-drive-review/20121305/article-detail.xml 20121305 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-2013-mazda-cx-5-fdopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-2013-mazda-cx-5-fdopt.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda reveals 2013 CX-5 for U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/16/mazda-reveals-2012-cx-5-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/16/mazda-reveals-2012-cx-5-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/16/mazda-reveals-2012-cx-5-for-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,



We already drove a pre-production 2013 Mazda CX-5 through scenic Iceland, and the Japanese automaker showed us the finished (European) product at the Frankfurt Motor Show back in September. Here at the Los Angeles Auto Show, however, Mazda has officially announced exactly what's in store for the U.S.-spec CX-5, set to go on sale early next year.

The Skyactiv powertrain should return best-in-class fuel economy figures of 26/33 mpg with the manual.

Powering the CX-5 is Mazda's new 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G gasoline four-cylinder with direct-injection technology. This powerplant is already available in the Mazda3 sedan and hatchback, and in the CX-5, it's good for 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque, mated to either a new Skyactiv six-speed manual or automatic transmission (the manual is only available in the bottom-rung Sport trim, sadly). The CX-5 is not as powerful as other offerings in the class - the Kia Sportage and much larger Toyota RAV4, among others, offer more grunt - but Mazda says that the Skyactiv powertrain should return best-in-class fuel economy figures: 26/32 miles per gallon (city/highway) with the automatic transmission or an even better 33 mpg highway with the manual. Based on our Nordic test drive, the lighter CX-5 is also likely to be more fun to drive than its contemporaries. No word yet on the possibility of seeing the Skyactiv-D diesel model in North American showrooms, however. In any case, we'll see if the gas engine's official EPA numbers match up when the vehicle is properly tested.

We'll be driving the CX-5 later this week while in Los Angeles, so stay tuned for our full driving impressions in the near future, and hopefully we'll have pricing soon. In the meantime, click through our new gallery of live images direct from SoCal and gaze at the official PR after the jump.

Continue reading Mazda reveals 2013 CX-5 for U.S.

Mazda reveals 2013 CX-5 for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Nov 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 la auto show2013 mazda cx-5cx-5cx5lala 2011la auto showmazdaskyactivWed, 16 Nov 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20107803/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/16/mazda-reveals-2012-cx-5-for-u-s/20107803/article-detail.xml 20107803 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-2013-mazda-cx-5-live628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-2013-mazda-cx-5-live628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Mazda CX-5 looks better without the camouflage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/14/2013-mazda-cx-5-looks-better-without-the-camouflage/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/14/2013-mazda-cx-5-looks-better-without-the-camouflage/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/14/2013-mazda-cx-5-looks-better-without-the-camouflage/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Mazda CX-5

As you might recall, we recently spent some time behind the wheel of a camouflaged 2012 Mazda CX-5 prototype in Iceland. And while we walked away impressed after our short stint behind the wheel, the fact that the car was covered in cheetah paper meant we couldn't quite see the final design - until now.

It's a good-looking crossover, this CX-5, keeping true to Mazda's original Minagi concept that first bowed at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year. What's more, the CX-5 will be a much-welcomed replacement for the Ford-supplied Tribute crossover - a vehicle that never really set the sales charts on fire.

When we drove the CX-5, we were very impressed with the SkyActiv 2.0-liter gasoline engine, though we're still crossing our fingers that Mazda will offer the 2.2-liter diesel powerplant here in the United States. Nevertheless, we give the CX-5 two thumbs up, and you can see the final road-ready version in our attached high-res image gallery.

2013 Mazda CX-5 looks better without the camouflage originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurt2013 mazda cx-5cx-5cx5frankfurtfrankfurt motor showmazdaWed, 14 Sep 2011 07:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20042270/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/14/2013-mazda-cx-5-looks-better-without-the-camouflage/20042270/article-detail.xml 20042270 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2013-mazda-cx-5-frankfrut_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2013-mazda-cx-5-frankfrut.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #246]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/autoblog-podcast-246/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/autoblog-podcast-246/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/autoblog-podcast-246/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

2013 Mazda CX-5, Ford Evos, Bob Lutz advising GM, New Super-Porsche confirmed

autoblog podcast

Episode #246 of the Autoblog Podcast is here. Better late than never! Sorry for the delay, there were a couple technical glitches to overcome this week. Chris, Dan, and Zach are joined by Autoblog Executive Editor Chris Paukert. Topics we cover include the Ford Evos concept, Bob Lutz being retained by GM as an advisor, the confirmation of a top-rung Porsche and the 2013 Mazda CX-5. Your questions and comments power the last third of the podcast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. We've embedded our Q&A module after the jump for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #246:
In the Autoblog Garage
2011 Hyundai Elantra
2012 Audi A6 3.0 TFSI

Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Zach Bowman, Chris Paukert
Runtime: 01:19:01
Get the podcast
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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #246

Autoblog Podcast #246 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Hyundai Elantra2012 Audi A6 3.0 TFSI2013 mazda cx-5autoblog podcastbob lutz gm advisorfeaturedford evos conceptporsche sedanWed, 07 Sep 2011 17:45:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #246Autoblog01:19:01 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20037137/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/07/autoblog-podcast-246/20037137/article-detail.xml 20037137 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/podcastlargephotor-1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/podcastlargephotor-1.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #246 LIVE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/05/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-246-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/05/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-246-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/05/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-246-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Autoblog Podcast

We record Episode #246 of the Autoblog Podcast tonight, and you can drop Chris, Dan, Executive Editor Paukert, and Zach your questions via our Q&A module below. Check out our discussion topics or chime in to help determine what else the crew chats about this evening, too. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #246
Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast and hear your questions asked:
[UStream] Interact LIVE at UStream - 10PM Eastern on Monday, September 5, 2011
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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #246 LIVE originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Sep 2011 17:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mazda cx-5autoblog podcast topicsbob lutz gmford evos conceptporsche sedanMon, 05 Sep 2011 17:35:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20035214/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/05/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-246-live/20035214/article-detail.xml 20035214 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Mazda CX-5 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/02/2013-mazda-cx-5-quick-spin-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/02/2013-mazda-cx-5-quick-spin-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/02/2013-mazda-cx-5-quick-spin-road-test/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Camouflage Can't Disguise A Winning Heart



While the recent struggles of its larger countrymen have been well publicized, Mazda finds itself at something of a quiet turning point. It would be hard to blame the Japanese automaker for kicking back and enjoying the warm fuzzies it's earned over the years with cars like the MX-5 Miata and Mazda3, but as a small company going it alone in a pond full of bigger, better-funded fish, it still has much to prove.

Among the competencies Mazda has to demonstrate, it must show it can build the powertrain technology necessary to reach fuel economy goals mandated by the U.S. government, rival automakers and the buying public. The only hybrid models it ever sold here were built under contract, and to this point, no other alternative fuel vehicles have found their way into its North American showrooms. What's more, Mazda's last attempt at a styling language, the flowing folds of Nagare, came in for critical praise on the showcar circuit thanks to stunners like the Furai and Ryuga, but the philosophy never really gelled in production form (its awkward, Jokerian pulled-smile and ribbed sheetmetal choices triggered more confused looks than praise). Compounding matters, the company recently announced it was pulling the plug on its iconoclastic RX-8, whose rotary engine and lightweight construction were brand cornerstones.

So... has Mazda lost the plot? As it turns out, not a bit. In fact, after spending a few days grilling company executives and driving prototypes of its forthcoming 2013 CX-5, we think the company seems as clear about its identity and mission as it's ever been, and the proof is in the CX-5's pudding. The new small crossover singlehandedly attempts to answer most of our nagging questions by packing Mazda's new Skyactiv blueprint for eco-friendly enthusiast driving ("sustainable Zoom-Zoom") and the seeds of Mazda's new Kodo design language, so we couldn't wait to get behind the wheel.

Shucking off Hurricane Irene's wrath, we flew to Iceland to get our first taste of the CX-5.

Continue reading 2013 Mazda CX-5 [w/video]

2013 Mazda CX-5 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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