Autoblog

Inside Line editors pick their 'Most Wanted' for 2010 - do you agree?

Chris Shunk — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST

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.

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

Frank Filipponio — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:59:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Concept Cars, SEMA Show, Sedan, Performance, Hatchback, Mazda

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

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.

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Oh, Canada! Great White North journos pick their cars of the year

Chris Shunk — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 07:30:00 EST

Filed under: Misc. Auto Shows, Canada

Guess what boys and girls, the auto show season is ramping up and that means the constant flow of Car of the Year awards is upon us. The biggest auto show award in our quaint little hemisphere is likely the North American COTY award, which, we would have thought included Canada, Mexico and our United States. Well, not so much. The Canadians have their own international show and their own COTY, complete with car and utility honors from among 12 categories and 52 award-eligible vehicles of all shapes and sizes.

After pouring over vehicles ranging from the Mazda3 to the Porsche Panamera and everything in between, the Canadians have narrowed their focus to one vehicle in each of the 12 categories. Volkswagen is the best-represented automaker in the final 12, with three VW models, two Audis and the Panamera. The Mazda3 wins in two different categories and the Ford Taurus is the only finalist among Detroit automakers.

Also shut out - somewhat surprisingly we may add - are the Honda and Toyota brands, although the Lexus Lexus RX450h was voted the top crossover/SUV over $60,000. The 2010 Canadian International Auto Show begins February 12. Hit the jump to view the rest of the winners.

[Source: AJAC via Auto North]

Continue reading Oh, Canada! Great White North journos pick their cars of the year

Oh, Canada! Great White North journos pick their cars of the year originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Mazda3 makes racing debut at SPEED World Challenge finale

Drew Phillips — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 18:59:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Mazda

2010 Tri-Point Motorsports Mazda3 World Challenge Racecar - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2010 Mazda3 made its motorsports debut this past weekend on its home track, Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca at the final race of the 2009 SPEED World Challenge season. The car was developed and built by Tri-Point Motorsports, which has been running Mazdas in the series since 2001. The team has raced a trio of Mazda6s for the past few season, even capturing the Touring Car title in 2007 with Jeff Altenburg behind the wheel.

Mazda hasn't released any official details on the car quite yet, but a company representative told us that the race was less about going fast and was more of a "public test" to give the car some much needed track time. In fact, the car was completed just before the race and didn't even get its sponsor decals until the second practice day. Even so, rookie driver Eric Foss managed to qualify in 12th and zoom-zoomed his way to a respectable 11th place in Sunday's race. Check out our photos of new Mazda3 racecar - which looks extraordinarily happy to be on track - in the high-res gallery below.

Gallery: 2010 Tri-Point Mazda3 World Challenge Racecar

2010 Mazda3 makes racing debut at SPEED World Challenge finale originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mazda3, Dodge Journey net IIHS Top Safety Pick ratings

Michael Harley — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 13:33:00 EST

Filed under: Safety

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has named its latest three Top Safety Pick award winners. The models include the 2010 Dodge Journey, 2010 Lincoln MKT, and Mazda's 2010 Mazda3. All three are equipped with standard side airbags. Stability control is standard on the Dodge and Lincoln, but optional on the Mazda.

Unlike the 35 mph head-on barrier crash testing conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and its resulting 1- to 5-star ratings, the IIHS frontal test runs the driver's side of a vehicle into a deformable barrier at 40 mph and then assigns one of four ratings (Good, Acceptable, Marginal or Poor) based on occupant injury, vehicle structure integrity, and the movement of the crash dummy within the cabin. In order to earn a Top Safety Pick award, the vehicles must earn the highest ("Good") rating in the agency's frontal, side, and rear impact testing... and be equipped with electronic stability control. The IIHS tests vehicles and announces its Top Safety Picks throughout the year.

[Source: IIHS]

Mazda3, Dodge Journey net IIHS Top Safety Pick ratings originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 Sep 2009 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: 2010 Mazda3 a tale of two Mazdas

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:56:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Mazda, Reviews

2010 Mazda3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

We can't talk about the new Mazda3 without lovingly gushing over the old Mazda3. Introduced in 2003 and produced until this year, the first generation was a segment buster. For about the same coin as its competitors, the Mazda3 gave you more: More sportiness, more refinement, more space and, being a Mazda, more reliability. The Mazda3 was just a better car. And of course there was the beloved MazdaSpeed3 - aka lightning in a reasonably-priced bottle. For 2010, Mazda has built a new, slightly larger 3 packed with polarizing styling, a bigger engine and more creature comforts. But will the new car bust the segment like its predecessor did?

Gallery: Review: 2010 Mazda3

Continue reading Review: 2010 Mazda3 a tale of two Mazdas

Review: 2010 Mazda3 a tale of two Mazdas originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2009 Mazda3 recalled over stability control software concern

Chris Shunk — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 17:58:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Government/Legal, Recalls, Safety, Hatchback, Mazda

If you own a 2009 Mazda3 with stability control, you may need to schedule some time at the local Mazda store for repairs. Mazda is recalling 7,100 2009 models for a problem with its Dynamic Stability Control system that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says is not in compliance with federal motor safety standards. NHTSA says the issue is that "the yaw rate measured after completion of the sine with dwell steering input exceeded the test standards." Sounds complicated.

Mazda hasn't yet given a timetable for owner notification, but 2009 Mazda3 owners can call 1-800-222-5500 to see if their vehicle is affected by the recall. Any Mazda dealership will be able to inspect and replace the stability control system free of charge. Hit the jump to read the official NHTSA press release.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading 2009 Mazda3 recalled over stability control software concern

2009 Mazda3 recalled over stability control software concern originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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25,000+ 2010 Mazda3s recalled over potential wiring harness fault

Noah Joseph — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 09:25:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Recalls, Hatchback, Mazda

2010 Mazda3 - Click above for a hi-res gallery

The hotly-awaited Mazda3 is only now filtering into U.S. dealerships after hitting other markets, but there's already a snag - more than 25,000 units are being recalled.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the safety concern stems from a small tolerance issue: the clearance between the underside of the engine and the starter motor housing is apparently too narrow, which could result in a short circuit, leaving the car at risk of stalling and perhaps being unable to kick over again. As a result, NHTSA has issued a recall for the 25,400 new Mazda3s in the United States to have a simple clip installed and, if necessary, to have the problematic engine harness repaired.

Full details are available in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: 2010 Mazda3

[Source: NHTSA - Office of Defects Investigation]

Continue reading 25,000+ 2010 Mazda3s recalled over potential wiring harness fault

25,000+ 2010 Mazda3s recalled over potential wiring harness fault originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Drive: 2010 Mazda3 - More grins, inside and out

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Wagon, Mazda, First Drive

2010 Mazda3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Automakers have to walk a thin line when updating a sales success or perennial favorite. It's even worse when the outgoing model embodies both traits. The "evolution not revolution" line gets tossed around the engineering and design centers with the hope the two teams can build off the current model's strengths while simultaneously delivering the upgraded content consumers expect. The 2010 Mazda3 proves it can be done.

With nearly one-third of all Mazdas sold with a 3 appended to the rear, the 2010 model had to continue to meet and exceed expectations in its class, something that's difficult to do when battling it out for compact supremacy among Toyota Corollas and Honda Civics. Thankfully, the features that made the original Mazda3 the leader in its segment - an expressive exterior, well-appointed interior and surprisingly engaging driving dynamics - not only carry over for 2010, but have been improved across the board. After a day of driving, the new 3 wasn't the only one wearing a grin. And oh, what a grin it is.

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Mazda3

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Mazda3 - More grins, inside and out

First Drive: 2010 Mazda3 - More grins, inside and out originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Beauty, eh? Mazda2 reportedly headed for the Great White North

Chris Paukert — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Green, Hatchback, Mazda

Mazda2 - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to a new article in Canada's Globe and Mail, Mazda president and CEO Takashi Yamanouchi has confirmed that the Mazda2/Demio subcompact hatch will be sold in Canada. While there is no firm timeframe, the GaM's sources suggest that it is likely to go on sale within the next year, although it is not yet clear which bodystyles will be sold.

That doesn't mean U.S. drivers should get their hopes up, however. There are a number of models sold in Canada that that have never been brought over to the States, including Nissan's XTrail and the Acura CSX (admittedly a gussied-up Honda Civic), and Mazda enjoys a significantly larger presence on the Canadian scene than it is in the States. Back in February, Jim O'Sullivan, Mazda's North American president and CEO, told Autoblog that Mazda's share in Canada sits around 5 percent, while in the U.S. they've only recently cracked two percent. Given that news, we can see the logic in trying out the Mazda2 in the land of hockey and Gordon Lightfoot before bringing it south to us Yankees. In the meantime, we'll have to slake our green minihatch Jonses with Ford's new Fiesta. Thanks for the tips, everyone!

Gallery: 2007 Mazda2

[Source: The Globe and Mail]

Beauty, eh? Mazda2 reportedly headed for the Great White North originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Apr 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mazda President and CEO James O'Sullivan named Automotive Executive of the Year

Michael Harley — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 10:33:00 EST

Filed under: Contests, Mazda

Joining the ranks of Carroll Shelby, Rick Wagoner, Henry Ford II, Robert Eaton, Lee Iacocca and John DeLorean (to name just a few), James O'Sullivan will receive the 2009 Automotive Executive of the Year Award at an invitation-only luncheon at the Detroit Athletic Club (DAC) in May. O'Sullivan is the current President and CEO of Mazda North American Operations, and Managing Executive Officer, Mazda Motor Corporation.

The award, started in 1964, recognizes excellence in automotive leadership from OEM executives as chosen by a nominating committee comprised of industry media, analysts, and suppliers. O'Sullivan has more than three decades of experience in the industry, and he held many key positions with Ford before heading Mazda. Robert Djurovic, executive director of the Automotive Executive of the Year award program said, "As a native Detroiter with a strong background in the actual sales process, coupled with a lean inventory, a solid partnership with JP Morgan Chase, and a great market offering in the Mazda3, James is the ideal candidate for the 2009 Automotive Executive of the Year."

[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Mazda President and CEO James O'Sullivan named Automotive Executive of the Year

Mazda President and CEO James O'Sullivan named Automotive Executive of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Mar 2009 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Mazda3 starting at $15,045

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 13:59:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Sedan, Wagon, Mazda

Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2010 Mazda3 five-door

Mazda has put a price tag on the 2010 Mazda3, and for $15,045, you can roll away in an entry-level sedan equipped with a manual transmission. For those keeping track, that's a scant $355 more than the outgoing model, and it's a small price to pay for the additional features inside.

The Mazda3 i Touring sedan, equipped with the 2.0-liter four-pot and an automatic gearbox will set you back $18,350, and comes equipped with Dynamic Stability Control, Traction Control and Bluetooth integration. If you option up for the Mazda3 s Sport sedan with the 2.5-liter four and autobox, the price rises to $19,540, with the five-door version coming in at $20,030. Both models receive 17-inch wheels and a dash-mounted 4.1-inch multi-information screen that displays everything from MP3 tracks to trip data and maintenance alerts. The "s" models are also available with the Technology package, which includes keyless entry, push-button start, sat-nav, Sirius radio (with six months of service included) and a perimeter alarm, all of which can be yours for $1,195. A Moonroof/CD changer/BOSE Audio package is available at $1,395 and you can get all the details on each package in the press release below the fold.

Gallery: 2010 Mazda3 Hatchback

Continue reading 2010 Mazda3 starting at $15,045

2010 Mazda3 starting at $15,045 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Feb 2009 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: First footage of 2010 Mazda3 MPS

Chris Shunk — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 08:27:00 EST

Filed under: Videos, Hatchback, Mazda

Click above to watch video after the jump

Looking at the Mazda3 MPS, we can't help but think that it knows something we don't. Why else would it have such a smug look on its face? If it's anything like the outgoing model, owners of the Mazdaspeed3 will have the biggest smile of all. So far, we know we'll see Mazda's newest MPS model at the Geneva Motor Show, and it will receive motivation from the same direct injected, turbocharged 2.3-liter four as the outgoing model. Now, thanks to some cut and run editing, we're getting a better idea of what Mazda's sports hatch looks like on the open road. Follow the jump to see 30 seconds of the Mazda3 MPS in perpetual motion. It's a tease to be sure, but it'll have to do for now. Thanks, Rowen!

Gallery: 2009 Mazda3 MPS (Mazdaspeed3)

[Source: OzMPSclub]

Continue reading VIDEO: First footage of 2010 Mazda3 MPS

VIDEO: First footage of 2010 Mazda3 MPS originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Feb 2009 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva Preview: Mazda3 MPS, Mazda3 i-stop to officially debut

Alex Nunez — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 08:57:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Hatchback, Mazda

Click above for a hi-res gallery of the 2009 Mazda3 MPS (Mazdaspeed3)

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

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

Gallery: 2009 Mazda3 MPS (Mazdaspeed3)

Gallery: 2009 Mazda3 i-stop

[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Geneva Preview: Mazda3 MPS, Mazda3 i-stop to officially debut

Geneva Preview: Mazda3 MPS, Mazda3 i-stop to officially debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Feb 2009 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Mazda3 to hit U.S. dealers in March

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 16:58:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Green, Hatchback, Mazda

Click above for high-res gallery of the Mazda3 five-door hatchback from Detroit

In a bit of good news for those currently in the market for a new compact car, Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO of Mazda's North American Operations, says that the redesigned 2010 Mazda3 is just now starting to show up in U.S. ports and is on schedule for a March sale date. That's also great news for Mazda, as the 3 is its best selling model in North America and is expected to help prop up lagging sales. As before, the new Mazda3 will be available in both sedan and hatchback form, with the choice of a 2.0L four-cylinder that offers 148 hp and 135 lb-ft of torque and a larger 2.5L four with 167 hp and 168 lb-ft of torque. In other news, O'Sullivan says that Mazda will not offer Ford's latest hybrid system in the firm's midsize 6 due to high cost considerations.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: 2010 Mazda3 five-door

[Source: Wards]

2010 Mazda3 to hit U.S. dealers in March originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Jan 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Mazda3 gets fuel-sipping start-stop tech abroad

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 15:55:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Geneva Motor Show, Green, Technology, Hatchback, Mazda

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Mazda3 five-door hatchback

Even brands with overtly sporty pretensions must be concerned with their fuel economy and emissions, a point that is further evidenced by Mazda's intent to launch start-stop technology in the U.K. on its newest 3, which has proven to be the Japanese brand's most popular model. Before the end of 2009, Mazda plans to add the eco-friendly tech to both the 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter gas-burning four-cylinder engines. Oddly, the car's optional diesels, which are significantly more fuel efficient than their petrol counterparts, will miss out on this bit of tech. It's interesting to note, however, that the 2.0-liter MZR four is the only powerplant is available in Japan, Europe and America, so it seems possible all three markets could benefit from stop-start if Mazda were so inclined.

Those that care little of fuel savings will be happy to welcome the Mazdaspeed (MPS across the pond) version of the 3 hatchback that is slated for release in March at the Geneva Motor Show. A twin-clutch DSG transmission is also reportedly in the works for the 2010 model year, so there's certainly plenty to look forward to from the Zoom Zoom company.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: 2010 Mazda3 five-door

[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Mazda3 gets fuel-sipping start-stop tech abroad originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Detroit 2009: 2010 Mazda3 hatch just as happy as the sedan

Frank Filipponio — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 17:34:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Hatchback, Mazda

Click above for high-res gallery of the Mazda3 five-door hatchback from Detroit

Mazda took the wraps off the five-door hatchback version of the redesigned Mazda3 at the Bologna Motor Show last month, but here in Detroit, we saw the car for ourselves at its North American debut. As you can see in the gallery of high-res pics below, the Mazda3 five-door gets the same swoopy sheetmetal as the sedan we saw in Los Angeles, including the comic smiley face front end. What's new is the lengthened roofline that drops down at a steeper angle to create a wagon-esque profile. Some of the D-pillar design cues remind us of the Pontiac Vibe/Toyota Matrix, but it also resembles the old Mazda3 hatch more than the new sedan. While we prefer the five-door to its four-door counterpart, we know customers want both, so this makes sense for Mazda.

Mazda3i models are still fitted with the MZR 2.0L engine, putting out 148 hp at 6500 rpm and 135 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm and controlled by either a manual or automatic five-speed. The Mazda3 MZR is packing the newly up-sized 2.5-liter four, providing 167 hp at 6000 rpm and 168 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm, with a choice of either a five-speed auto or a six-speed manual. And naturally, we're looking forward to the next Mazdaspeed model, preferably in hatch form. Check out the official press release after the jump for more details and the gallery below for plenty of high-res pics.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: 2010 Mazda3 five-door

Continue reading Detroit 2009: 2010 Mazda3 hatch just as happy as the sedan

Detroit 2009: 2010 Mazda3 hatch just as happy as the sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: Mazda3 five-door hatchback gets real

John Neff — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 12:57:00 EST

Filed under: Wagon, Europe, Hatchback, Mazda, Misc. Auto Shows

Click above for high-res gallery of the Mazda3 five-door hatchback

Mazda has officially taken the wraps off its five-door hatchback version of the redesigned Mazda3 at the Bologna Motor Show today. As you can see in the gallery of new high-res pics below, the Mazda3 five-door gets the same swoopy sheetmetal as its four-door brethren, including the super happy smiley front end face. What's new is an extended roofline that drops down at a steep angle to create a wagon-esque profile. With a D-pillar that kinks up at a swept back angle, the look is very similar to that of a Pontiac Vibe/Toyota Matrix that's been stepped on by a giant. The new cargo capacity will no doubt be appreciated by families who can put every extra cubic foot to good use, and if the current generation Mazda3 is any indication, this will also be the basis for the Mazdaspeed model.

At the moment, all the specs for the new Mazda3 five-door hatchback are for the European market, so don't expect its new 2.2L and carryover 1.6L turbo diesel engines to be available in the U.S. Europeans will also have a choice of 1.6L and 2.0L gas engines, though we expect the U.S.-spec model to offer the same 2.0L and new 2.5L four-cylinder engines as the sedan. Check out the official press release from Mazda after the jump for more details and the high-res image gallery below for more shots of the new Mazda3 five-door hatchback.

Gallery: 2010 Mazda3 Hatchback

[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Officially Official: Mazda3 five-door hatchback gets real

Officially Official: Mazda3 five-door hatchback gets real originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cutting room floor: Mazda3 sedan designs that didn't make it

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 11:29:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Mazda

Click above for high-res image gallery of unused Mazda3 designs

It takes a lot of time and effort to redesign any vehicle, but the problem is magnified when the model in question is an automaker's best-seller. So it's not surprising that Mazda would have a number of unused concepts left over from the team tasked with updating the popular Mazda3 compact. What's more intriguing, however, is just how good some of these unused sketches are. For instance, while we like the overall design of the new '3, take a look at this alternate front face - meaner and more aggressive than the propitious look of the final car.

Not only is a critical eye necessary to be a designer, it also requires a desire to get your hands dirty at times. Full-size clay models need to be shaped and refined in wind tunnels before getting final approval, and the new car needs to at least share a passing resemblance to its predecessor. See the whole process through which Mazda designers trudged in our gallery below.

Gallery: Unused Mazda3 Sketches

[Source: Carscoop]

Cutting room floor: Mazda3 sedan designs that didn't make it originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Nov 2008 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mazda3 hatch unveiled, will debut next week

Alex Nunez — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 04:00:00 EST

Filed under: Hatchback, Mazda, Misc. Auto Shows

Click above for a hi-res gallery of the 2010 Mazda3 hatchback

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

Gallery: 2010 Mazda3 Hatchback

[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Mazda3 hatch unveiled, will debut next week

Mazda3 hatch unveiled, will debut next week originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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