Autoblog

Consumer Reports picks best used cars for teens [w/video]

Aaron Richardson — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Sedan, Safety, Videos, Acura, Ford, Hyundai, Mazda, Volkswagen

2011 Consumer Reports best cars for teens - Click above for high-res image gallery of the picks

Letting a 16-year-old loose on the world behind the wheel of a couple of tons of metal is a terrifying thought. Statistically, teens are more likely to die in a car accident than by any other means, and, most of the time, those accidents are avoidable.

To make picking a car for your teen easier, Consumer Reports has come up with a list of relatively new, relatively cheap options to keep your kids safe while they ~~bomb around with five of their friends~~ make the commute between school, work and home.

As you may imagine, CR recommends a family sedan that packs in as many modern safety features as you can afford, including stability control, ABS, traction control and side curtain air bags. They eschew trucks and SUVs due to their comparatively poor handling, high centers of gravity and bad gas mileage. Don't even go there with sports cars.

Consumer Reports prime choices are as follows: the Acura TSX, the 2009 and up Ford Focus, the 2007 and up Hyundai Sonata or Hyundai Elantra, 2007 and up Mazda3, 2008 and on Scion xB, and both the 2007 and up Volkswagen Jetta and Rabbit/Golf. Click past the jump for a video of CR's choices.

Gallery: 2011 Consumer Reports best cars for teens

[Source: Consumer Reports]

Continue reading Consumer Reports picks best used cars for teens [w/video]

Consumer Reports picks best used cars for teens [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Autoblog Podcast #202 - SEMA, reliability, Chrysler interiors and the Cadillac ATS

Dan Roth — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 17:40:00 EST

Filed under: Podcasts, SEMA Show, Cadillac, Chrysler, Dodge, Mazda

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

It's time for Episode #202 of the Autoblog Podcast, and the cast of characters keeps on revolving as auto show season starts ramping up. Steven Ewing joins Chris and Dan this week to kck the ball around about SEMA, the Consumer Reports Reliability survey for 2010, the refreshed Dodge Grand Caravan and Avenger and the Cadillac ATS. We wrap it up with your feedback and questions before calling it a night at the hour and a half mark. Thanks for listening, see you next week!

Autoblog Podcast #202 - SEMA, reliability, Chrysler interiors and the Cadillac ATS

In the Autoblog Garage:

Mazda3 (Japanese spec)
Subaru Outback 3.6R

News Topics:

Hosts:
Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Steven Ewing
Runtime: 1:35:53

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

Feedback:
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com
Voicemail: 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763)

Review the show in iTunes and take our survey

Autoblog Podcast #202 - SEMA, reliability, Chrysler interiors and the Cadillac ATS originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Video: Mazda Shinari concept and Kodo-fied Mazda3 make the scene

Zach Bowman — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Sedan, Videos, Paris Motor Show, Mazda

Mazda Shinari Concept - Click above to watch video after the jump

We're going to go ahead and say it: of all of the companies out there, few demonstrate a command of the concept car quite like Mazda. While most manufacturers seem to be eschewing the concept in favor of thinly-veiled production vehicles, Mazda continues to tantalize the imaginations of onlookers with cars like the Furai. Now, it looks like the company is planning to turn away from its somewhat controversial (read: smiley) Nagare design language in favor of a new theme. Mazda is calling it Kodo, meaning "soul of motion," and if the Shanari Concept is any indication of what we can expect from future models, we're sold.

Mazda has just rolled out a couple of videos that show off the company's new look. The first features a CG Shanari rolling through crowded city streets, tunnels and the rolling tarmac of what we assume to be the Japanese countryside. The second gives us an idea of what a Kodo-fied Mazda3 might look like. Hit the jump for a quick look see.

[Source: Mazda via YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Mazda Shinari concept and Kodo-fied Mazda3 make the scene

Video: Mazda Shinari concept and Kodo-fied Mazda3 make the scene originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Prototype Mazda3 with 2.0L Sky-G engine gets 30/40 mpg

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 15:57:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Technology, Mazda

2010 Mazda3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda gave us a glimpse of its next-generation Sky-G (gas) and Sky-D (diesel) powertrains at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, as well as its new Sky-Drive six-speed automatic transmission. These engines are currently running the testing gauntlet, as the first applications are expected to show up as early as next year in the refreshed Mazda6 sedan.

Car and Driver was able to snag an early test of a 2.0-liter Sky-G engine, which will reportedly achieve 30 miles per gallon in the city and 39 to 40 mpg on the highway when used in a Mazda3. This puts it in the same territory as the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta TDIs, not to mention besting smaller offerings like the Ford Fiesta and Honda Fit.

C/D also got the skinny on Mazda's 2.2-liter Sky-D diesel powertrain, which the automaker has confirmed for application in its "next-generation mid-size sedan" (*cough* Mazda6 *cough*) which will achieve up to 43 mpg on the highway. Take that, Fusion Hybrid. Head over to Car and Driver's full deep-dive for a raft of details about both of the new engines.

Gallery: Review: 2010 Mazda3

Photos Copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: Car and Driver]

Prototype Mazda3 with 2.0L Sky-G engine gets 30/40 mpg originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Sep 2010 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Report: 2007-2009 Mazda3 and Mazda5 models face power steering recall

Chris Shunk — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 09:31:00 EST

Filed under: Minivan/Van, Sedan, Recalls, Safety, Hatchback, Mazda

2007 Mazda3 (above) and 2009 Mazda5 (below, right) - Click on either image for high-res gallery

Automotive News is reporting that Mazda has notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that it will recall over 200,000 2007 to 2009 Mazda3 and Mazda5 models due to faulty power-assist steering pumps and pipes. The recall announcement comes two months after NHTSA launched an investigation into 33 complaints of power steering failures. In three cases, the loss of steering control led to an accident.

Robert Davis, Mazda's senior vice president of product development and quality has told AN that the power steering system can shut down because sensors in the pump can be contaminated with rust from pipes that connect the pump to the steering rack. The contamination could cause the power steering pump to shut itself down to prevent further damage. When the power steering shuts down, affected vehicles will still be steerable, but the loss of power assist will make steering effort markedly heavier than what drivers are used to.

Owners of the affected vehicles will be notified by Mazda to bring their Mazda3 or Mazda5 to the nearest dealership for a new steering pump and pipes. This recall notice has yet to be added to be made official by NHTSA on its website.

Gallery: 2007 Mazda3

Gallery: 2009 Mazda5

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

Report: 2007-2009 Mazda3 and Mazda5 models face power steering recall originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Consumer Reports picks best cars for teens and seniors

Zach Bowman — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 13:59:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Budget, Minivan/Van, Sedan, SUV, Safety, Hatchback, Acura, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Nissan, Subaru, Luxury

Consumer Reports picks the best cars for teens and seniors - Click above for high-res image gallery

The car-savy folk over at Consumer Reports have released a new list of its best picks for vehicles suited for teens and seniors. The group suggests parents looking to send their teens off to school with a newer vehicle should try to avoid the common misstep of assuming that a larger SUV is safer than its smaller, more efficient counterparts. Instead of opting for a heavy roller, Consumer Reports suggests that parents look toward cars with standard traction control and side curtain airbags - cars like the Mazda 3, Scion xB, Honda Accord or Nissan Rogue.

Meanwhile, the publication points to a number of models for seniors that offer good visibility and easy access, including the Honda Odyssey, Hyundai Azera and Subaru Forester XT Limited. As you might expect, CR notes that each of the vehicles on the list can boast at least average reliability and carry the publications' Recommended label.

Interestingly enough, the only vehicle that Consumer Reports recommends for both driver types is the Honda Accord. Check out our galleries of the winners below and hit the jump to peruse the full press release.

Gallery: Consumer Reports Best Cars for Teens

Gallery: Consumer Reports Best Cars for Seniors

[Source: Consumer Reports]

Continue reading Consumer Reports picks best cars for teens and seniors

Consumer Reports picks best cars for teens and seniors originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Euro/Asian Mazda3 oil hose recall pending?

Steven J. Ewing — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 10:34:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Sedan, China, Europe, Japan, Recalls, Safety, Hatchback, Mazda

2010 Mazda3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda is reportedly looking to issue a recall of the popular Mazda3 compact in its European and Asian markets. According to Automotive News, the carmaker has filed a report with the Japanese transport ministry stating that driving on rough roads for an extended period of time can cause the car's oil hose to rub against the radiator's protective panel. This can cause oil to leak if the hose is worn down. Worst case scenario, Mazda says, is that the car will simply be unable to start.

This recall will only affect 89,822 Axela models (the Mazda3's name in Asian markets) in Japan and China, and an additional 191,503 units sold throughout Europe. The United States is off the hook this time, though, since the recall only covers vehicles fitted with an engine that's unavailable in the U.S. Mazda is currently deciding how to repair this problem in all markets and plans to issue the official recall in the near future.

Gallery: Review: 2010 Mazda3

Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

Euro/Asian Mazda3 oil hose recall pending? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 18 Apr 2010 10:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

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

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

Filed under: Audi, Ford, Mazda, Porsche

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 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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

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.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

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.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

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.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

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.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

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.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

w00t! The return of the Autoblog Podcast!

Dan Roth — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 10:58:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Podcasts, Chrysler, Ford, GM, Lexus, Mazda

If we were going to continue numbering things, this would technically be Autoblog Podcast #103. We had tried to record this comeback episode once already about three weeks ago, and that turned out to be the only time I've ever toasted an audio file. Pro Tools said "uhh, what?" and that was that - our file was gone. So, before Chris Shunk headed out the door to the LA Auto Show, we sat down and breezed through a few subjects like what's in our respective Autoblog Garages, the new Mustang, the new Mazda 3, the new Lexus RX crossovers, and of course, the situation in which the Detroit automakers find themselves. It's a slightly rambly hour and only a duo this time around, but we're going to do it again soon with a trio, just like old times.

SUBSCRIBE to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
ADD the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator
DOWNLOAD the show now

w00t! The return of the Autoblog Podcast! originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Nov 2008 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

LA Preview: 2010 Mazda3 gains 167-hp 2.5L

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:29:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Sedan, Mazda

Click above for three high-res gallery of the 2010 Mazda3

Mazda has let loose a few more details on its 2010 Mazda3 just two days ahead of its official unveiling at the LA Auto Show. As before, there will be a base 2.0-liter engine that comes standard along with an optional larger unit, now enlarged to 2.5 liters. The displacement bump comes with a power increase, naturally, up to 167 galloping ponies from 156. Both engines sit under a newly-domed hood and gulp air from a smiling front grille that seems to be the new car's most controversial styling feature. As before, both a four-door hatch/wagon and a sedan will be offered, though we're only scheduled to see the trunked model this week in LA with the five-door set to debut shortly thereafter. Here's hoping that the zoomy Mazdaspeed3 sees additional improvements beyond the new digs, as well. Check out the official press release from Mazda that arrived today for all the details we know so far.

Gallery: 2010 Mazda3

[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading LA Preview: 2010 Mazda3 gains 167-hp 2.5L

LA Preview: 2010 Mazda3 gains 167-hp 2.5L originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Rendered Speculation: 2010 Mazda3 smiles back

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 20:02:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Hatchback, Mazda, Rendered Speculation

We have an idea of what the next Mazda3 will look like based on some trademark renderings that Mazda supplied the European Union Office of Harmonization for the Internal Market; basically what they amount to are patent drawings. Based on these very rough outlines, somebody named Pascal Boissé from Auto-Motive D&C has created a rendering that gives us a slightly better idea of what the new compact car will look like. The results are a bit mixed, with the fenders and greenhouse meeting our expectations, but that happy-go-lucky front end may be a bit off. Recent spy shots don't show the snout protruding out quite that far. We may see character lines along the door's bottom edge, leading up to the rear arches as the rendering clearly shows. What we know for sure is that Mazda has been getting more expressive with its styling, as the revised 6 and recent concepts prove. We'll see the Mazda3 in person at the upcoming LA Auto Show and here's hoping that it's a bit more refined than the rendering above.

[Source: MSN]

Rendered Speculation: 2010 Mazda3 smiles back originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Sep 2008 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: 2010 Mazda3

Dan Roth — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 08:29:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Etc., Mazda

New spy shots of the refreshed Mazda3 have surfaced, lending credence to the future-Mazda images we've seen oozing out of places like an EU harmonization office, and a Japanese toymaker. It looks like the doors remain largely unchanged, with the nose and tail receiving the bulk of the work. The front end will pick up new headlamps that mimic what big-brother 6 now wears. The black-tape ruse is not effective at disguising a C-Pillar that remains kinked forward, but the taillights are successfully obscured with adhesive applique. It won't be long before we see all the tape pulled off the refreshed 3 as the car show season heats up.

[Source: Car and Driver, Photo: Michael Cervantes/Priddy]

Spy Shots: 2010 Mazda3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Aug 2008 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Following CX-9, Mazda to make more vehicles just for U.S.

Chris Shunk — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 11:01:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Budget, Sedan, Crossover, Mazda

The CX-9 was Mazda's first vehicle designed specifically for US consumption, and one Motor Trend SUV of the year award later, Mazda may be on to something. Sales momentum has increased steadily for the seven-seat utility vehicle, with 3,000 units flying off dealer lots in October alone. Mazda's flexibility allowed the automaker to transform in 18 months a minivan that would likely retail for less than $30,000 into a hot CUV with a price tag reaching $40,000. The Hiroshima-based automaker will leverage those lightning-fast production capabilities and its Ford-shared global architecture bin to produce more vehicles for US tastes, and we're happy to hear it.

Since Mazda seems to have a handle on CUVs (it has four in the US already), we can only guess what exclusive product the development team in Irvine, CA will give us next. A zoom-zoom version of the Honda Ridgeline would be interesting, as would a US-unique Mazda2. We'd like to put in a vote for Mazda utilizing the RX-8 platform to create a sporty RWD sedan, but we're sure everyone the world over would want that.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Following CX-9, Mazda to make more vehicles just for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Nov 2007 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Lutz lets a bit of Edmunds survey slip, GM takes 13 first place picks

Chris Tutor — Fri, 04 May 2007 09:24:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying

Sometimes news is just too good to keep to yourself. Just ask GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz. With his company supposedly claiming 13 spots on Edmund's Consumers' Most Wanted list, Lutz just had to brag a bit on the corporate blog before the winners were made public.

And he should brag. Most other car of the year awards are chosen by us automotive writers who usually prefer horsepower over hip room. As the name implies, Edmund's CMW awards are chosen by the car-buying public. And despite not voting with their wallets, the car-buying public who visits Edmund's really like their GMs.

The GMC Acadia got Most Significant vehicle of the year, beating out Honda's Fit, the Toyota Camry Hybrid, the Ford Edge and the Toyota Tundra.

Click through to see Edmund's press release as well as the other category winners.

[Source: Edmunds, GM FastLane Blog]

Continue reading Lutz lets a bit of Edmunds survey slip, GM takes 13 first place picks

Lutz lets a bit of Edmunds survey slip, GM takes 13 first place picks originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 May 2007 09:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments