Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[REPORT: Ford and Mazda may develop vehicles separately going forward]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/report-ford-and-mazda-may-develop-vehicles-separately-going-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/report-ford-and-mazda-may-develop-vehicles-separately-going-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/report-ford-and-mazda-may-develop-vehicles-separately-going-for/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



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

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

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


[Source: Bloomberg]

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

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

Mazdaspeed2 Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

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

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

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


Gallery: LA 2009: Custom Mazda2 Concepts


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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShow2Evil2Evil Special2evilSpecialActive2Active2 SnowActive2 SurfActive2SnowActive2Surfla 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowmazdamazda2mazdaspeed2Thu, 03 Dec 2009 22:02:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Mazda unveils North American spec Mazda2 for 2011]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-mazda-mazda2-los-angeles-auto-show-2009-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-mazda-mazda2-los-angeles-auto-show-2009-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-mazda-mazda2-los-angeles-auto-show-2009-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Mazda2 - Click above for high-res image gallery

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

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


Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Mazda2


Gallery: 2011 Mazda2


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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 Mazda22011Mazda2lala 2009la auto showla auto show 2011 mazda2la showLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2011Mazda2LaShowmazdamazda2Wed, 02 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[LA Preview: Mazda2 to make its North American debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/la-preview-mazda2-to-make-its-north-american-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/la-preview-mazda2-to-make-its-north-american-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/la-preview-mazda2-to-make-its-north-american-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Mazda2 - click above for high-res image gallery

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

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


Gallery: 2007 Mazda2


[Source: Mazda]

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA autoshowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009los angeleslos angeles auto showLosAngelesLosAngelesAutoShowmazdaMazda 2mazda2mazda2 north americamazda2 usMazda2NorthAmericaMazda2UsWed, 18 Nov 2009 11:31:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mazda to slash weight by over 200 pounds in 2011]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/report-mazda-to-slash-weight-by-over-200-pounds-in-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/report-mazda-to-slash-weight-by-over-200-pounds-in-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/report-mazda-to-slash-weight-by-over-200-pounds-in-2011/#commentsFiled under:


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

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

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

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

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


Gallery: Review: 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata


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

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

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


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

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


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


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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4 rotor4-rotor4-rotor Mazda4-rotor Mazda RX-84-rotor RX-84-rotorMazda4-rotorMazdaRx-84-rotorRx-84Rotorfour rotorfour-rotorFourRotormazdamazda rotarymazda rx-8Mazda RX8MazdaRotaryMazdaRx-8MazdaRx8rotaryrotary engineRotaryEngineRX-8RX8SEMAsema 2009Sema2009time attackTimeAttackwankelFri, 06 Nov 2009 09:40:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Mazda introduces us to a happy couple, inspires 3-some]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-mazda-introduces-us-to-a-happy-couple-inspires-3-som/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-mazda-introduces-us-to-a-happy-couple-inspires-3-som/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-mazda-introduces-us-to-a-happy-couple-inspires-3-som/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


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

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

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

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

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


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


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

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

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

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



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

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

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

[Source: NHTSA]

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>B SeriesB-SeriesBSeriescruise controlcruise control recallcruise control switch firescruise recallCruiseControlCruiseControlRecallCruiseControlSwitchFiresCruiseRecallfaultfireMazdaMazda B-seriesMazda PickupMazdaB-seriesMazdaPickupPickupRecallspeed controlSpeedControlswitchTexas InstrumentsTexasInstrumentsTue, 03 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Mazda's Sky G and Sky D engines should come with straws for sipping]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/tokyo-2009-mazdas-sky-g-and-sky-d-engines-should-come-with-str/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/tokyo-2009-mazdas-sky-g-and-sky-d-engines-should-come-with-str/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/tokyo-2009-mazdas-sky-g-and-sky-d-engines-should-come-with-str/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

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

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


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Mazda Sky D engine


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Mazda Sky G engine


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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieselEngineermazdaMazda SKYmazda sky dMazda SKY engineMazda SKY enginesmazda sky gMazdaSkyMazdaSkyDMazdaSkyEngineMazdaSkyEnginesMazdaSkyGsky dSky Digitalsky gSkyDSkyDigitalSkyGSkylinesustainable zoomsustainable zoom zoomSustainable Zoom-Zoomsustainable zoomzoomSustainableZoomSustainableZoom-zoomSustainableZoomZoomtechtechnologytokyotokyo 2009Tokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoMotorShowFri, 23 Oct 2009 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mazda's next-generation rotary needs more work]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/report-mazdas-next-generation-rotary-needs-more-work/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/report-mazdas-next-generation-rotary-needs-more-work/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/report-mazdas-next-generation-rotary-needs-more-work/#commentsFiled under: , ,

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

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

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


Gallery: 2009 Mazda RX-8 R3


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

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

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


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

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

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


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: 1970 Mazda RX-500 Concept


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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1970 Mazda RX-500 Concept1970MazdaRx-500Concept2009 Tokyo Motor Show2009TokyoMotorShowbreadvangull-winggullwingHiroshima City Transportation MuseumHiroshimaCityTransportationMuseumMazdaMazda RX-500 ConceptMazda RX500 ConceptMazdaRx-500ConceptMazdaRx500Conceptrotaryrotary engineRotaryEngineRX-500 ConceptRx-500ConceptTokyo 2009Tokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoMotorShowwankelThu, 22 Oct 2009 10:20:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mazda's design chief working on new RX-7]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/report-mazdas-design-chief-working-on-new-rx-7/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/report-mazdas-design-chief-working-on-new-rx-7/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/report-mazdas-design-chief-working-on-new-rx-7/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

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

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

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


Gallery: Mazda RX-7


[Source: Autocar]

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 mazda rx-72011 mazda rx72011MazdaRx-72011MazdaRx72012 mazda rx-72012 mazda rx72012MazdaRx-72012MazdaRx7mazdarx-7rx7Tue, 20 Oct 2009 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 Mazda3 makes racing debut at SPEED World Challenge finale]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/2010-mazda3-makes-racing-debut-at-speed-world-challenge-finale/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/2010-mazda3-makes-racing-debut-at-speed-world-challenge-finale/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/2010-mazda3-makes-racing-debut-at-speed-world-challenge-finale/#commentsFiled under: ,


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


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

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]]>2010 Mazda32010 Tri-Point Mazda32010Mazda32010Tri-pointMazda3Mazdamazda 3Mazda3SPEED World ChallengeSPEED World Challenge TouringSpeedWorldChallengeSpeedWorldChallengeTouringTri-Point Mazda3Tri-Point MotorsportsTri-pointMazda3Tri-pointMotorsportsTue, 13 Oct 2009 18:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Mazda2 gets friendly update in Thailand, new fascia to go global?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/09/mazda2-gets-friendly-update-in-thailand-new-fascia-to-go-global/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/09/mazda2-gets-friendly-update-in-thailand-new-fascia-to-go-global/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/09/mazda2-gets-friendly-update-in-thailand-new-fascia-to-go-global/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Mazda2 (Thailand-spec) - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda has just announced that it has commenced production of the Mazda2 subcompact in Thailand. No big deal, right? Well, not in and of itself, but the Japanese automaker also released three images of the car, and its sporting a revised front fascia that mimics that of its big brother, the Mazda3.

Mazda doesn't specifically indicate that all new 2s worldwide will get the smiley face treatment, but it seems likely that the automaker would want to keep all of its products in line with one another. Presumably, that would include the United States, which is slated to get the subcompact near the end of 2010.

In any case, we're expecting to see the car make its debut in North American-spec later this year at the LA Auto Show, so we'll know for sure if it will sport the new look soon enough. Check out the photo galleries below to compare the new car with the old.


Gallery: 2010 Mazda2 (Thailand)


Gallery: 2007 Mazda2

Continue reading Mazda2 gets friendly update in Thailand, new fascia to go global?

Mazda2 gets friendly update in Thailand, new fascia to go global? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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According to The New York Times' Wheels blog, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is currently in the early stages of investigating issues involving the 2005 Ford F-150 and 2004-2008 Mazda RX-8 models equipped with manual transmissions.

In the case of the Blue Oval, NHTSA has received eight complaints of F-150 airbags that have either deployed during ignition or in the seconds directly after ignition. The issue has reportedly resulted in some bumps and bruises, but if NHTSA finds the issue to be a big problem, up to 530,000 vehicles stand to be effected by what could be a very expensive safety recall for the Blue Oval.

At the other end of the automotive spectrum, Mazda's RX-8 sportscar is under the watchful eye of NHTSA for a problem that could effect far fewer vehicles but the problem is equally serious. The safety administration has reportedly received 40 complaints of 2004-2008 models that have experienced clutch pedal bracket failure, and in 15 cases, the rotary-powered Mazda was moving and the drivers couldn't change gears normally as a result. Two of those drivers could have found themselves in a more dangerous situation, as the clutch pedal was reported to have become wedged under the brake pedal.

At this point, NHTSA is just beginning to investigate these issues, and if a recall results in either case, the government agency will assuredly issue notice.

[Source: The New York Times]

REPORT: NHTSA investigating Ford F-150 airbags, Mazda RX-8 clutch pedals originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2005 ford f-1502005FordF-150air bagAirBagclutch pedalClutchPedalfordmazdamazda rx-8MazdaRx-8nhtsaTue, 06 Oct 2009 10:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mazda looking to raise $1.1B to catch up in hybrid race]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/report-mazda-looking-to-raise-1-1b-to-catch-up-in-hybrid-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/report-mazda-looking-to-raise-1-1b-to-catch-up-in-hybrid-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/report-mazda-looking-to-raise-1-1b-to-catch-up-in-hybrid-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2009 Mazda Tribute - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to a report from Reuters, Mazda plans to raise up to $1.1 billion (95.9 billion yen) by issuing 315.2 million new shares and selling 96.8 million treasury shares. The resulting funds are to be reinvested in the company, mainly for research and development into hybrids and other eco-friendly technologies.

So far, Mazda's only hybrid has been a version of its Tribute crossover utility vehicle, which was in reality little more than a badge-engineered version of the Ford Escape Hybrid. Last year, Ford reduced its stake in Mazda to 13.8 percent, meaning that the Japanese automaker will longer be able to rely on the Blue Oval for gas-electric expertise, so it needed to make its own independent investment into new technologies.

Back in April, Mazda announced plans to boost the fuel efficiency of its fleet of cars and trucks by 30%, and that laudable effort will begin in 2011 with a new fuel efficient version of its bread-and-butter 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission. Well, now we know how all this newfangled Sustainable Zoom Zoom stuff will be paid for.


Gallery: Mazda Tribute Hybrid SUV


[Source: Reuters]

REPORT: Mazda looking to raise $1.1B to catch up in hybrid race originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>greenhybridmazdamazda hybridmazda hybridsmazda sharesmazda stockMazdaHybridMazdaHybridsMazdaSharesMazdaStockMon, 05 Oct 2009 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is still the drive of our childhood dreams]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/review-2009-mazda-mx-5-miata-is-still-the-drive-of-our-childhoo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/review-2009-mazda-mx-5-miata-is-still-the-drive-of-our-childhoo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/review-2009-mazda-mx-5-miata-is-still-the-drive-of-our-childhoo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

Remember back when you were a diapered enthusiast-to-be and you weren't allowed to venture beyond the end of your family's tree lawn? The sum total of your 'driving' experience was probably a Little Tikes Cozy Coupe. If you were like us, your toddler self was all big dreams, bustling feet and arms akimbo, twirling around those front caster wheels, savoring your first taste of automotive freedom.

Mazda created a timeless masterwork upon minting the very first MX-5 Miata back in 1989.
Small wonder, then, that Little Tikes' now 30-year-old bauble of rotation-molded plastic was last year's best-selling car - it's timeless. Combine classic styling, unburstable robustness, an inexpensive sticker price and the fact that it remains just quick enough for its target audience, and you've got a recipe for lasting success. The CC's whimsical, animated face; rounded, friendly styling; unfussed interior; nimble handling and general affordability has meant that despite a decidedly casual model update schedule, the folks at Little Tikes still have the whole fun-to-drive thing knocked. Sound like anyone else we know?

Oh, it may have taken them a decade longer to cotton on to the idea, but Mazda's designers eventually stumbled upon the same secret sauce as those wondrous toymakers from Hudson, Ohio. Perhaps inadvertently, they, too, created a timeless masterwork upon minting the very first MX-5 Miata back in 1989. All these years later, just like the Cozy Coupe, you can't help but smile a little when you see one. Just like the Cozy Coupe, you have to adopt the same mildly vulnerable, elbows-out-the-window driving position because of the cabin's pronounced narrowness. Just like the Cozy Coupe, both cars have more than their fair share of plastic in their interior. Just like the Cozy Coupe, road imperfections are transmitted directly through the modestly sized wheels into the driver's hands and back pocket - and in both cases, it's part of the fun. Most importantly, just like that Cozy Coupe of your youth, Mazda's minimalist masterwork will help you rediscover your inner enthusiast's childlike heart.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is still the drive of our childhood dreams

Review: 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is still the drive of our childhood dreams originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Mazda MX-52010MazdaMx-5FeaturedmazdaMazda MiataMazda MX-5MazdaMiataMazdaMx-5MiataMX-5MX5reviewReviewedreviewsroadstersports carSportsCarFri, 02 Oct 2009 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Mazda Miata owners gather in Japan for 20th anniversary celebration]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/mazda-miata-owners-gather-in-japan-for-20th-anniversary-celebrat/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/mazda-miata-owners-gather-in-japan-for-20th-anniversary-celebrat/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/mazda-miata-owners-gather-in-japan-for-20th-anniversary-celebrat/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Mazda MX-5 Miata 20th Anniversary Meet - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda celebrated the 20th anniversary of its MX-5 Miata this year at the Chicago Auto Show by bringing out various concepts and special edition models to display on the show floor. But that handful of cars was nothing compared to the event put on by Mazda last weekend that brought out 2,600 owners and 1,600 cars to celebrate the best selling roadster of all time at the Miyoshi Proving Ground in western Japan.

The day's festivities included introductions for the various clubs, an MX-5 quiz, and a 20th anniversary car that all of the attendees could sign. Bringing the event to a close was a massive parade around the track that has to have broken some sort of record. You can read the brief press release after the jump or check out the high-res gallery courtesy of Mazda below.


Gallery: Mazda MX-5 20th Anniversary Meet


[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Mazda Miata owners gather in Japan for 20th anniversary celebration

Mazda Miata owners gather in Japan for 20th anniversary celebration originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MazdaMazda MiataMazda Miata 20th Anniversary MeetMazda MX-5Mazda MX-5 20th anniversary meetMazdaMiataMazdaMiata20thAnniversaryMeetMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-520thAnniversaryMeetMiataMX-5Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Mazda previews next-gen SKY clean engines, transmission and Kiyora concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/tokyo-2009-mazda-previews-next-gen-sky-clean-engines-transmiss/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/tokyo-2009-mazda-previews-next-gen-sky-clean-engines-transmiss/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/tokyo-2009-mazda-previews-next-gen-sky-clean-engines-transmiss/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Mazda Kiyora Concept set to debut at the Tokyo Motor Show - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda has just dropped off a bunch of info about their next-generation clean engines that will be officially unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in October, and we have two words for you: Direct and Diesel. Along with its next-gen 'Mazda SKY Drive' high-efficiency automatic transmissions, visitors to the at 41st Tokyo Motor Show will get to see the 'Mazda SKY-G' direct injection gas engine and the 'Mazda SKY-D' clean diesel engine. The house of Zoom-Zoom is hoping to use these advanced technologies to boost their corporate average fuel economy by a whopping 30% between 2008 and 2015.

In typical Mazda fashion, they want everyone to know that they haven't given up on driving excitement in their move to more eco-friendly fare - the Japanese automaker is out to prove that 'fun' and 'green' don't have to be mutually exclusive terms. The Mazda SKY display area will be broken into "Technologies for Today, Tomorrow and The Future." The Today area will show off things like i-stop, the idle start-stop feature that debuted on the 2010 Mazda3. The Future area will host the rotary-powered Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid, among other things. But the one we're really waiting to see is the updated Mazda Kiyora concept.

The Kiyora is a lightweight concept first shown in Paris last year. For Tokyo it's powered by a new 1.3-liter direct injection engine. It will travel 32 kilometers per liter of fuel (under Japan's 10-15 mode test cycle) - that's 75 mpg - and promises lots of smiles per gallon as well. Besides that new SKY engine, the Kiyora will also feature the new Mazda SKY-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, i-stop, regenerative braking, and super-slick aerodynamics. It also weighs at least 100 kg less than any other car in the company's current lineup. Follow the jump for more details from the official press release and check out the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: Mazda Kiyora and SKY Technologies


[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Tokyo 2009: Mazda previews next-gen SKY clean engines, transmission and Kiyora concept

Tokyo 2009: Mazda previews next-gen SKY clean engines, transmission and Kiyora concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingDIdirect injecteddirect injectionDirectInjectedDirectInjectionkiyoramazdaMazda enginemazda kiyoramazda kiyora conceptMazda SKYMazda SKY engineMazda SKY enginesMazdaEngineMazdaKiyoraMazdaKiyoraConceptMazdaSkyMazdaSkyEngineMazdaSkyEnginestokyotokyo 2009Tokyo2009tokyomotorshowTue, 29 Sep 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Ten "green" cars that met their fate during Cash for Clunkers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/26/top-ten-green-cars-that-met-their-fate-during-cash-for-clunker/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/26/top-ten-green-cars-that-met-their-fate-during-cash-for-clunker/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/26/top-ten-green-cars-that-met-their-fate-during-cash-for-clunker/#comments

One rule that all clunked cars needed to adhere to was a maximum rating of 18 MPG from the federal government, right? What wasn't required was that the clunked car be considered dirty. After all, it's pretty clear that CNG vehicles burn clean, but that didn't stop 232 of them from meeting their sodium silicate solution-induced death.

We looked through the official, but as of yet unverified, list (PDF) of trade-in cars that were clunked using the Car Allowance Rebate System (Cash for Clunkers) and found that the aforementioned CNG vehicles, 1,779 flex-fuel vehicles and 24 LPG vehicles found their way to the recycler thanks to CARS. Which alternative-fuel models were most dumped? Which single hybrid took a dive? Click above for our top ten and check out the full list after the jump.

Photo by dno1967. Licensed under Creative Commons license 2.0.

Continue reading Top Ten "green" cars that met their fate during Cash for Clunkers

Top Ten "green" cars that met their fate during Cash for Clunkers originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 26 Sep 2009 18:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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