Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Mazda announces live-streaming vehicle intro on Xbox]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/mazda-announces-live-streaming-vehicle-intro-on-xbox/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/mazda-announces-live-streaming-vehicle-intro-on-xbox/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/mazda-announces-live-streaming-vehicle-intro-on-xbox/#commentsFiled under: ,

XBox logo

In April, Mazda introduced a marketing campaign titled "Game Changers" to showcase how certain people have made significant impacts in their respective sports, and now it's the Japanese automaker that is changing the game by creating an innovative way to launch a new product. Mazda is teaming up with Xbox to offer a first-of-its-kind live-streaming global debut of a new product. Mazda didn't say which model will be debuted, but our guess is that it will be the next-generation Mazda3.

The actual reveal will take place at 9 pm on June 26 during a live concert from the band Metric in New York City, but there will be other live events preceding the concert in Melbourne, St. Petersburg, Istanbul and London. Mazda will be promoting the event on social media using the hashtag #GameChanger, and there is also a contest on Xbox where one winner will receive $2,500 to attend a music event of their choice. Scroll down for the full details of the contest and vehicle debut event.

Continue reading Mazda announces live-streaming vehicle intro on Xbox

Mazda announces live-streaming vehicle intro on Xbox originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jun 2013 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>live streaming videomazdaxboxWed, 19 Jun 2013 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20626647/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/19/mazda-announces-live-streaming-vehicle-intro-on-xbox/20626647/article-detail.xml 20626647 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/xbox-opt_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/xbox-opt.png <![CDATA[Stock Miata beats bunch of high-powered cars in wet 1/4-mile drag race]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/06/stock-miata-beats-bunch-of-high-powered-cars-in-wet-1-4-mile-dra/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/06/stock-miata-beats-bunch-of-high-powered-cars-in-wet-1-4-mile-dra/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/06/stock-miata-beats-bunch-of-high-powered-cars-in-wet-1-4-mile-dra/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,



When is a stock, 167-horsepower Mazda MX-5 Miata quicker than a Chevrolet Corvette, Ford Mustang, Lamborghini Gallardo, Lotus Elise and a Porsche 911? When it's raining. Sort of.

Mazda Canada arranged a unique drag race to show off the fact that the Miata's optional power retractable folding hardtop can go from top-down to top-up in just 12 seconds flat. In this video, all six cars line up for a drag race, and it starts to rain (well, sort of - but you'll have to watch the video all the way to the end to see what we mean). The green flag is waved, and the timer starts as soon as the convertibles begin to put their tops up. But because the Miata's roof mechanism gets the car's roof back up a full 5.1 seconds quicker than the second-place car, the Mazda gets a serious advantage off the line for the actual drag race.

It's a fun video. And while we've spoiled the results (come on, the video was uploaded by Mazda, you knew the Miata was going to win), be sure to see how it all unfolds, below.

Continue reading Stock Miata beats bunch of high-powered cars in wet 1/4-mile drag race

Stock Miata beats bunch of high-powered cars in wet 1/4-mile drag race originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Jun 2013 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevychevy corvettedrag racefordford mustanglamborghinilamborghini gallardolotuslotus elisemazdamazda miatamazda mx-5 miataporscheporsche 911videoThu, 06 Jun 2013 14:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20602079/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/06/stock-miata-beats-bunch-of-high-powered-cars-in-wet-1-4-mile-dra/20602079/article-detail.xml 20602079 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/mazdavideo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/mazdavideo.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda2 successor to ride atop shortened CX-5 platform]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/31/mazda2-successor-to-ride-atop-shortened-cx-5-platform/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/31/mazda2-successor-to-ride-atop-shortened-cx-5-platform/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/31/mazda2-successor-to-ride-atop-shortened-cx-5-platform/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Mazda2 - front three-quarter view, white

Mazda, looking to make the most of its new, lightweight Skyactiv vehicle architecture, will allegedly use a version of the CX-5 crossover's platform to underpin its next-generation Mazda2 hatchback, according to a report from Just-Auto.com. Of course, the Mazda2 is a much smaller vehicle than its larger CUV stablemate, so some serious chopping will no doubt be in order when it comes time to engineer the replacement for the company's smallest hatch.

Currently, the CX-5 and the sleek new Mazda6 share many of the same platform components, and this architecture will already be scaled down to support the next-generation Mazda3 sedan and hatchback, which will debut later this year. Just-Auto.com states that all of Mazda's remaining front-wheel-drive vehicles will eventually switch to reworked versions of this Skyactiv platform, including the replacement for the larger CX-9 crossover.

Also of note, Mazda will reportedly be switching to shorter, four-year lifecycles for its vehicles. This means that the newly launched Mazda6 will be replaced for the 2016 calendar year, with a refresh coming sometime in 2014. That said, vehicles with platforms supplied by other automakers (like the upcoming MX-5 Miata replacement that will share its underpinnings with an Alfa Romeo product) will not necessarily follow this four-year rule.

Mazda2 successor to ride atop shortened CX-5 platform originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 May 2013 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 mazda2mazdamazda cx-5mazda2skyactivFri, 31 May 2013 09:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20589221/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/31/mazda2-successor-to-ride-atop-shortened-cx-5-platform/20589221/article-detail.xml 20589221 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2011-mazda2-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2011-mazda2-review.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Mazda6: Introduction]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/2014-mazda6-long-term-introduction/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/2014-mazda6-long-term-introduction/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/2014-mazda6-long-term-introduction/#commentsFiled under: , ,

An Extended Stay With The Sexy Six

2014 Mazda6

The new-for-2014 Mazda6 sedan is more than just a pretty face. For Mazda, it marks the company's best effort yet at competing in the highly competitive midsize sedan segment, all the while staying true to the brand's core value of offering high levels of driver involvement above all. We certainly came away impressed after our first drive of the sleek Six in France last fall, and we knew right from the start that this would be a car we'd want to spend a lot of time with back here at home.

So with that in mind, the folks at Mazda graciously agreed to loan us the fully loaded Soul Red tester you see here for a one-year stay in the Autoblog long-term garage. Because of how important this car is to the segment, and to Mazda as a brand, we know there's going to be a lot to talk about it over the next 12 months. Right now, though, allow us to introduce you to the newest member of our long-term family.

Continue reading 2014 Mazda6: Introduction

2014 Mazda6: Introduction originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 May 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 mazda mazda62014 mazda6ablongtermablongterm-mazda6featuredlong-termlongtermmazdamazda mazda6mazda6Thu, 30 May 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20584698/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/30/2014-mazda6-long-term-introduction/20584698/article-detail.xml 20584698 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2014-mazda6-lt-1369671254_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2014-mazda6-lt-1369671254.jpg <![CDATA[Masamichi Kogai new Mazda president and CEO]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/masamichi-kogai-new-mazda-president-and-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/masamichi-kogai-new-mazda-president-and-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/masamichi-kogai-new-mazda-president-and-ceo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

There's some executive rearranging going on in the top suite at Mazda Motor Corporation in Japan, with current CEO Takashi Yamanouchi telling reporters there "I'd like to hand over the work to younger people" now that the company has returned to profitability. Yamanouchi became CEO on November 19, 2008 of an independent Mazda that had to fight for its future in the immediate aftermath of the global financial crisis. What followed was four years of losses before finally getting back to black last year.

Masamichi Kogai (pictured) will be appointed the new president and CEO on June 25, pending approval at the company's annual general shareholders' meeting. Kogai assisted Seita Kanai with the production-efficiency initiative that Mazda called Mono Tsukuri Innovation, which worked to give export-dependent Mazda the best chance at profitability in spite of a rising yen. Kogai, lately in charge of production and purchasing, has been with the company since 1977 and worked in areas from R&D to logistics.

Kanai, who headed the Mono Tsukuri effort and was among the leadership on Skyactiv, will be promoted from executive vice president to vice chairman. Akira Marumoto will become executive VP of Mazda and assistant to new president Kogai. Yamanouchi will remain Chairman of the Board. There's a short press release below to make it official.

Continue reading Masamichi Kogai new Mazda president and CEO

Masamichi Kogai new Mazda president and CEO originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 May 2013 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceomasamichi kogaimazdamono tsukuriseita kanaiTakashi YamanouchiFri, 10 May 2013 09:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20564795/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/10/masamichi-kogai-new-mazda-president-and-ceo/20564795/article-detail.xml 20564795 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/masamichi-kogai-mazda-ceo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/masamichi-kogai-mazda-ceo.jpg <![CDATA[2015 Mazda3 interior spied for the first time]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/2015-mazda3-interior-spied-for-the-first-time/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/2015-mazda3-interior-spied-for-the-first-time/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/2015-mazda3-interior-spied-for-the-first-time/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2015 Mazda3 spy shot

In terms of exterior appearance, not much has changed from the last time we spotted the next-generation Mazda3 out testing. Oh, sure - we can see plenty of details that clearly show the new Kodo design influence (that front end reminds us a whole lot of the sleek new Mazda6), but these latest round of spy shots don't really show us anything we haven't seen before. Oh, wait, yes they do - the interior.

2015 Mazda3 interiorFeast your eyes on the Mazda3's insides, showing a vastly reworked interior that also takes cues from the automaker's most recently refreshed products. We can see that there's a simple, clean center stack with a slim row of heating and cooling functions, and up top there's a large, presumably touchscreen display, with redundant controls found just aft of the shifter.

We expect that the 2015 Mazda3 will debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, packing both petrol and diesel engines. A sedan variant is also in the works, and should debut shortly after the hatchback.

2015 Mazda3 interior spied for the first time originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 mazda3mazdamazda3spy photosspy picsspy shotsWed, 08 May 2013 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20561949/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/08/2015-mazda3-interior-spied-for-the-first-time/20561949/article-detail.xml 20561949 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2015-mazda3-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2015-mazda3-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Scion FR-S pitted against oldtimers RX-8 and S2000]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/scion-fr-s-pitted-against-mazda-rx-8-honda-s2000/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/scion-fr-s-pitted-against-mazda-rx-8-honda-s2000/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/scion-fr-s-pitted-against-mazda-rx-8-honda-s2000/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Scion FR-S vs Mazda RX-8 vs Honda S2000

There are very few vehicles available today that compare directly with the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ twins. A case could be made for the Mazda MX-5 Miata, and possibly even six-cylinder versions of American coupes like the Ford Mustang. Pretty much everything else is either too expensive or is powered by the wrong set of wheels.

The boys from EverydayDriver on YouTube decided the only fair way to judge the inherent qualities of the Toyobaru twins was to pit them against two standard-bearers of years past: The Honda S2000 and Mazda RX-8. Neither of these cars is an exact matchup, with the Honda boasting a convertible top and the RX-8 offering more practicality via a rear seat and two reverse-opening doors for easier access. What they do offer, however, are similar performance stats and proven reputations for excellent handling.

None of this talk answers the real question, though: Which one wins the comparison test? Scroll down to watch the video, and be prepared for something of a surprise conclusion.

Continue reading Scion FR-S pitted against oldtimers RX-8 and S2000

Scion FR-S pitted against oldtimers RX-8 and S2000 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 May 2013 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-shondahonda s2000mazdamazda rx-8scionscion fr-svideoTue, 07 May 2013 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559441/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/07/scion-fr-s-pitted-against-mazda-rx-8-honda-s2000/20559441/article-detail.xml 20559441 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/frs-rx8-s2000_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/frs-rx8-s2000.png <![CDATA[Red Bull RX-7 goes drift crazy on New Zealand's Crown Range]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/red-bull-rx-7-goes-drift-crazy-on-new-zealands-crown-range/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/red-bull-rx-7-goes-drift-crazy-on-new-zealands-crown-range/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/red-bull-rx-7-goes-drift-crazy-on-new-zealands-crown-range/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Red Bull Crown Range drifting by Mad Mike

For the first time ever, the Crown Range, New Zealand's highest paved road, was closed off for the drifting pleasure of one man. That man is Mad Mike Whiddett, and the machine he's piloting is a heavily modified Mazda RX-7 sponsored by the energy-rich crew from Red Bull and powered by a 750-horsepower quad-rotor engine. There will be smoke. Lots and lots of smoke.

Mad Mike hits speeds in excess of 140 miles per hour over the course of the road's six and a half miles, which boasts 47 individual corners at over 3,500 feet of elevation. Scroll down for all kinds of fire-belching, tire-squealing and smoke-inducing action. Or, as Mad Mike himself puts it, "A dream turned into reality."

Continue reading Red Bull RX-7 goes drift crazy on New Zealand's Crown Range

Red Bull RX-7 goes drift crazy on New Zealand's Crown Range originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 May 2013 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crown rangedriftingmad bikemazdamazda rx-7mazda rx-7 drift carnew zealandred bullrotary drift carvideoTue, 07 May 2013 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20561134/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/07/red-bull-rx-7-goes-drift-crazy-on-new-zealands-crown-range/20561134/article-detail.xml 20561134 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/red-bull-crown-range-mad-mike_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/red-bull-crown-range-mad-mike.png <![CDATA[Mazda reveals new 'Game Changers' advertising campaign]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/mazda-reveals-new-game-changers-advertising-campaign/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/mazda-reveals-new-game-changers-advertising-campaign/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/mazda-reveals-new-game-changers-advertising-campaign/#commentsFiled under: ,



Looking to highlight its unique and sporty mindset, Mazda is getting ready to launch its biggest advertising campaign since "Zoom-Zoom" became its tagline in 2000. The new campaign, entitled "Game Changers," will begin in May, and rather than focusing on its sporty past - like it did with Zoom-Zoom early on - the new ads will look at recent advancements made in building its future, including Skyactiv technologies and its new diesel race program, both of which involve its excellent new Mazda6 sedan.

As a part of the ads, Mazda will showcase game changers from the sporting world, including Dick Fosbury who changed how competitors perform the high jump and Laird Hamilton, who redefined how surfers attacked big waves. It doesn't sound like Zoom-Zoom is going away, but "Game Changers" will definitely feature heavily in the Japanese automaker's marketing moving forward. A few examples of the new ad campaign are posted in our gallery, and the press release is available below.

Continue reading Mazda reveals new 'Game Changers' advertising campaign

Mazda reveals new 'Game Changers' advertising campaign originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 mazda6advertisinggame changersmarketingmazdamazda advertisingzoom zoomTue, 30 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20552136/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/30/mazda-reveals-new-game-changers-advertising-campaign/20552136/article-detail.xml 20552136 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mazda-game-changer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mazda-game-changer.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda books first yearly profit in half-decade, NA still a drag]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/mazda-books-first-yearly-profit-in-half-decade-na-still-a-drag/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/mazda-books-first-yearly-profit-in-half-decade-na-still-a-drag/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/mazda-books-first-yearly-profit-in-half-decade-na-still-a-drag/#commentsFiled under: ,

2013 Mazda6 Sedan

Automotive News reports Mazda has posted its first annual profit in five years. The company made $364.3 million in the last fiscal year, following a $1.14 billion loss the year prior. Operating profit also jumped up by $91.3 million to $572.8 million, thanks in part to a revenue increase of 8 percent to $23.42 billion.

But the news isn't all rays of sunshine. North America continues to be a problem for Mazda where the automaker posted yet another loss. The manufacturer lost $519.1 million last year, up from $427.8 million the year prior. While the launch of the CX-5 helped see US sales increase by 2 percent to 273,000 vehicles, the region as a whole bought up 372,000 units. Mazda had predicted closer to 380,000 units.

Even so, Mazda says it should have North America back in the black by next year, with the company forecasting a sales increase of 11 percent to 415,000 units in the region. That's thanks in part to a boost from the redesigned Mazda6 sedan.

Mazda books first yearly profit in half-decade, NA still a drag originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earningsmazdamazda profitprofitTue, 30 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20551893/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/30/mazda-books-first-yearly-profit-in-half-decade-na-still-a-drag/20551893/article-detail.xml 20551893 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mazda6-sedan-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mazda6-sedan-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda6 Skyactiv-D racecar gets first win at Road Atlanta]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/mazda6-skyactiv-d-racecar-gets-first-win-at-road-atlanta/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/mazda6-skyactiv-d-racecar-gets-first-win-at-road-atlanta/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/mazda6-skyactiv-d-racecar-gets-first-win-at-road-atlanta/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Mazda has a long motorsports history, and one that is peppered with fascinating cars. The latest chapter in Mazda's racing story has just been written, as Joel Miller and Andrew Carbonell have driven the Visit Florida Racing Mazda6 Skyactiv-D to the car's first ever victory at the Rolex Grand-Am GX race at Road Atlanta. The win marks the first ever for Mazda's diesel-burning, production-car based Skyactiv-D racer, and the first win for a diesel-powered car in a Grand-Am event.

In fact, it was a particularly good day for the Mazda Motorsports team, as a Mazda6 also picked up the third finishing spot at Road Atlanta. Director of Mazda Motorsports, John M. Doonan, said of the racecar, "We've always said that the best street cars make the best racecars, and, with more than half of the components in the race engine being shared with the street engine, this program is a solid proof-point."

SpeedSource Engineering, which helped to build the Mazda6 racer, was greatly heartened by the car's performance in just it's fourth-ever race. Owner Sylvain Tremblay called the victory, "a tribute to the thousands of hours of hard work over many months," continuing, "The normal plan with a new car is to spend the first year in development, the second year seeking race wins, and challenging for a championship in year three. We are already at our year-two status after four races. We can't wait to get to the Belle Isle course in Detroit for round five."

Continue reading Mazda6 Skyactiv-D racecar gets first win at Road Atlanta

Mazda6 Skyactiv-D racecar gets first win at Road Atlanta originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrew carbonellgrand amjoel millermazdamazda mazda6racecarroad atlantaskyactiv-dTue, 23 Apr 2013 11:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20547431/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/23/mazda6-skyactiv-d-racecar-gets-first-win-at-road-atlanta/20547431/article-detail.xml 20547431 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mazda6-skyactiv-d-road-atlanta-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mazda6-skyactiv-d-road-atlanta-628.jpg <![CDATA[Subcompact car sales in a funk despite high gas prices]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/subcompact-car-sales-in-a-funk-despite-high-gas-prices/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/subcompact-car-sales-in-a-funk-despite-high-gas-prices/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/subcompact-car-sales-in-a-funk-despite-high-gas-prices/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Mazda2 - metallic green, front three-quarter view

When gas prices rise, knee-jerk consumerism means that sales of small cars increase in lockstep, right? Well, sometimes - but that's not always the case. Ward's Auto reports that sales of subcompact car sales in America are off despite fuel prices pushing and holding at $3.50 to $4.00 a gallon across the country. According to the report, the "Lower Small" segment has seen a 2.6-percent sales decline since October, while fuel prices have been on the rise. Despite their comparatively thirsty appetite for fuel, the industry publication notes that sales of large crossovers are up a whopping 61 percent over the same time period.

Part of the sales stories may center on the boom/bust cycle that comes as a result of new or aging models in each segment - the full-size CUV segment has received a raft of new models, including the refreshed Lambda triplets from General Motors, the Nissan Pathfinder and even derivatives like the new Sport model in the Ford Explorer family. Yet it isn't as if America's subcompact segment is stagnant - as Ward's points out, most of the players are two years old or less.

Sales losers in the first quarter of the year include the Mazda2 (pictured - down 51.9 percent), Toyota Yaris (-27.9 percent) and Hyundai Accent (-24.7), though other models including the Kia Rio and Chevrolet Sonic slipped as well. Conversely, the Nissan Versa and Ford Fiesta held their own, registering sales up 11.6 percent and 3.3 percent, respectively.

Part of subcompacts' sales problem may be due to the fact that those same automakers offer larger compact models whose fuel economy figures are comparable to that of their smaller counterparts. Further, pricing differences may not amount to all that much between the models - particularly in leasing situations where compact cars' typically command higher residual values.

Subcompact car sales in a funk despite high gas prices originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Apr 2013 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mazda22013 toyota yarisauto salescar salesmazdasubcompactsubcompact carstoyotatoyota yarisMon, 15 Apr 2013 09:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20539108/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/15/subcompact-car-sales-in-a-funk-despite-high-gas-prices/20539108/article-detail.xml 20539108 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/628-2013-mazda-mazda2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/628-2013-mazda-mazda2.jpg <![CDATA[Watch a high-speed chase from a motorcycle-mounted officer's point of view]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/13/watch-a-high-speed-chase-from-a-motorcycle-mounted-officers-poi/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/13/watch-a-high-speed-chase-from-a-motorcycle-mounted-officers-poi/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/13/watch-a-high-speed-chase-from-a-motorcycle-mounted-officers-poi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Motorcycle Police Chase Video

Riding a motorcycle through high traffic can be a stressful experience. And we don't even want to imagine what it's like to have to actually pursue someone on a motorcycle. Fortunately, we don't have to. Officer Troy Gurley of the Florence, Alabama police force recently attempted to stop a vehicle for traffic violations. The driver, 24-year-old Justin Sanders, figured he could use his Mazda3 to outrun the bike cop. Turns out, not so much.

Gurley pursued Sanders for nearly five minutes as the Mazda driver ran stop signs, swerved through traffic and raced through residential neighborhoods, but the perpetrator couldn't shake the tenacious and experienced rider. Other units soon joined the pursuit, and Sanders thought it best to leave the protection of his car to attempt to flee on foot. From there, it didn't take officers long to apprehend him. You can watch the video below for yourself.

Continue reading Watch a high-speed chase from a motorcycle-mounted officer's point of view

Watch a high-speed chase from a motorcycle-mounted officer's point of view originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 13 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chasehigh speed chase motorcyclehighspeedchasemotorcyclemazdamazda3motorcyclemotorcycle copmotorcycle cop videomotorcycle officermotorcycleofficerpolicepolice chasepursuitSat, 13 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20538578/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/13/watch-a-high-speed-chase-from-a-motorcycle-mounted-officers-poi/20538578/article-detail.xml 20538578 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/motorcycle-police-chase-video-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/motorcycle-police-chase-video-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota, Honda, Mazda and Nissan recall 3.4 million vehicles for faulty airbags]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/toyota-honda-nissan-mazda-recall-3-4-million-for-faulty-airbags/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/toyota-honda-nissan-mazda-recall-3-4-million-for-faulty-airbags/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/toyota-honda-nissan-mazda-recall-3-4-million-for-faulty-airbags/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Most vehicle recalls that take place these days are a result of some problem that happens during the manufacturing process by the automaker, but as we see here, parts suppliers can also factor in to problematic safety issues. Automotive News is reporting that a total of 3.4 million vehicles produced by Japanese automakers between 2000 and 2004 are being recalled globally due to faulty airbags produced by an outside supplier, Takata Corp.

According to the report, vehicles from Toyota, Honda, Nissan and Mazda are being recalled because of passenger front airbags that do not inflate properly. Globally, Toyota is said to be recalling around 1.73 million cars including 510,000 in the US composed of Toyota Corolla, Matrix, Sequoia and Tundra as well as the Lexus SC430 for the 2001 through 2003 model years; this is the second time this year the 2003 Corolla and Matrix have been recalled for an airbag problem. Honda is recalling 1.14 million models, Nissan another 480,000 and Mazda 45,463. The article says that Takata supplied faulty airbags to non-Japanese automakers, but it did not specify which ones.

Honda and Toyota have released information on their own websites about the recall, while Nissan and Mazda have not yet commented. Read official press releases from Honda and Toyota, below, and look for updates as we have word from the others.

Continue reading Toyota, Honda, Mazda and Nissan recall 3.4 million vehicles for faulty airbags

Toyota, Honda, Mazda and Nissan recall 3.4 million vehicles for faulty airbags originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hondahonda recalllexus sc430mazdamazda recallnissannissan recallrecalltakata corptoyotatoyota corollatoyota matrixtoyota recallToyota Sequoiatoyota tundraThu, 11 Apr 2013 09:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20537342/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/11/toyota-honda-nissan-mazda-recall-3-4-million-for-faulty-airbags/20537342/article-detail.xml 20537342 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/001-2003-2006-toyota-corolla628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/001-2003-2006-toyota-corolla628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda's first profit in five years in sight due to weak yen]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/mazdas-first-profit-in-five-years-in-sight-due-to-weak-yen/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/mazdas-first-profit-in-five-years-in-sight-due-to-weak-yen/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/mazdas-first-profit-in-five-years-in-sight-due-to-weak-yen/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2014 Mazda CX-5 - front three-quarter view

Automotive News reports Mazda is set to turn a profit for the first time in five years. The automaker is more dependent on exports from Japan than other automakers based in that country, and as a result, it has long suffered at the hands of a strong yen. But the currency has declined in value by some 16 percent over the past six months and Mazda's shares have tripled in value to their highest level since 2008. Contrast this situation to a year ago when Mazda printed 1.22 billion new shares to raise cash. The move was equivalent to 70 percent of the company's then-outstanding stock, and values tumbled to record lows as a result.

Now that the yen has fallen to a value of around 96 per dollar, Mazda operations in the US are more profitable and the company now projects it will earn around $279 million for the next fiscal year. Automotive News says a one yen change against the dollar can have a 9.1 percent impact on Mazda operating profit compared to 4.7 percent at Subaru parent Fuji Heavy Industries or 3.1 percent at Toyota. Those automakers better insulate themselves from currency fluctuations with overseas manufacturing facilities.

Mazda's first profit in five years in sight due to weak yen originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanmazdamazda profitprofityenFri, 05 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20531408/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/05/mazdas-first-profit-in-five-years-in-sight-due-to-weak-yen/20531408/article-detail.xml 20531408 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-mazda-cx-5-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-mazda-cx-5-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda3 successor due in dealers this fall]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/23/mazda3-successor-due-in-dealers-this-fall/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/23/mazda3-successor-due-in-dealers-this-fall/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/23/mazda3-successor-due-in-dealers-this-fall/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2014 Mazda3 undergoing testing with camouflage on

Following exciting new models like the 2013 CX-5 and 2014 Mazda6, Mazda is getting ready to introduce the next generation of its high-volume compact, the Mazda3. After talking to several of Mazda's dealers, Automotive News is reporting that the automaker is planning to introduce its new compact this fall, which is earlier than what was originally reported.

Aside from what we've seen in recent spy shots and what appeared to be a full-scale design mockup back in October, there is little information about the third-generation 3, but we can see that the car will get plenty of cues from Mazda's stylish Kodo design language, and we expect even more technologies from the company's SkyActiv efficiency program to come to bear. AN says that Mazda is hoping to top 300,000 sales this year in the US, and the sooner Mazda can replace the current aging 3, the better chances it has at reaching that goal.

Mazda3 successor due in dealers this fall originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 mazda3mazdaskyactivspy shotsSat, 23 Mar 2013 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20514449/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/23/mazda3-successor-due-in-dealers-this-fall/20514449/article-detail.xml 20514449 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/001-2015-mazda3-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/001-2015-mazda3-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda's awesome Hiroshima museum now navigable by Google Maps]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/15/mazdas-awesome-hiroshima-museum-now-navigable-by-google-maps/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/15/mazdas-awesome-hiroshima-museum-now-navigable-by-google-maps/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/15/mazdas-awesome-hiroshima-museum-now-navigable-by-google-maps/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mazda Museum Hiroshima - classics display

Visiting an auto museum is one of the best ways we know to connect with car culture and to commune with the past and bone up on one's knowledge. Most of us have a decent museum within a few hours drive of where we live, but that doesn't mean it's easy to see the world's great collections - factors like cost, time and mobility can get in the way. Videos are great, but they don't allow us to browse at our own pace or choose what we'd like to focus on. The folks behind Google Maps have a solution - the virtual museum tour, as seen here at Mazda's fantastic museum in Hiroshima, Japan.

The Google Maps tour allows viewers to take a walk through the main exhibition area of the museum, and you can focus on specific classic cars from Mazda, or check out displays featuring new technologies like Skyactiv. To take a quick spin through the museum - or a leisurely stroll at your own pace - scroll down to start your own virtual tour.

Continue reading Mazda's awesome Hiroshima museum now navigable by Google Maps

Mazda's awesome Hiroshima museum now navigable by Google Maps originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Mar 2013 08:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car museumclassic carsgoogle mapshiroshimamazdamazda museumFri, 15 Mar 2013 08:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20502581/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/15/mazdas-awesome-hiroshima-museum-now-navigable-by-google-maps/20502581/article-detail.xml 20502581 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/mazda-museum-hiroshima-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/mazda-museum-hiroshima-628.jpg <![CDATA[Five vehicles named Top Safety Pick+ including new Civic, MKZ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/five-vehicles-named-top-safety-pick-including-new-civic-mkz/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/five-vehicles-named-top-safety-pick-including-new-civic-mkz/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/five-vehicles-named-top-safety-pick-including-new-civic-mkz/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



In an attempt to help push vehicle safety to a higher level, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety created a stricter Top Safety Pick+ rating last year, which incorporates a brutal small overlap test and requires cars to get Good ratings in four out of the five categories (and no less than Acceptable in the fifth). Joining the list of the safest cars of 2013, the 2013 Volvo XC60, Lincoln MKZ, Honda Civic (sedan and coupe) and the 2014 Mazda6 have all received the coveted TSP+ rating.

The Mazda6 and Lincoln MKZ have both been completely redesigned, and both received Acceptable ratings in the small overlap test. The Honda Civic, coming off its emergency refresh for 2013, is the first small car to be subjected to the small overlap test, and IIHS says that one of the car's many upgrades includes a stiffer front structure allowing it to receive Good ratings in all categories. Similarly, the XC60 gets all Good ratings thanks to, according to IIHS, Volvo updating the airbag software allowing the side airbags to inflate during the small overlap test.

The 2014 Subaru Forester has not yet been subjected to the small overlap test, so it must make do with just a Top Safety Pick rating until the IIHS tests small utility vehicles, which is expected to happen later in the spring.

Continue reading Five vehicles named Top Safety Pick+ including new Civic, MKZ

Five vehicles named Top Safety Pick+ including new Civic, MKZ originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 honda civic2013 lincoln mkz2013 top safety pick+2013 volvo xc602014 mazda6hondaiihsInsurance Institute for Highway Safetylincolnmazdasafetytop safety picktop safety pick+tsptsp+volvoFri, 08 Mar 2013 17:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20494589/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/08/five-vehicles-named-top-safety-pick-including-new-civic-mkz/20494589/article-detail.xml 20494589 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-honda-civic-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-honda-civic-review.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus, Mazda and Subaru top <i>Consumer Reports</i> Brand Report Cards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/lexus-mazda-and-subaru-top-consumer-reports-brand-report/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/lexus-mazda-and-subaru-top-consumer-reports-brand-report/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/lexus-mazda-and-subaru-top-consumer-reports-brand-report/#commentsFiled under: , ,



A revised methodology in devising its annual Car Brand Report Cards has seen Consumer Reports award Lexus its top overall ranking for 2013. For the first time ever, the institute broke out individual brands from their larger corporate umbrellas, meaning car makers like Lexus and Scion were judged independently from parent company Toyota. That strategy worked out well for Lexus, as the luxury brand earned a top report card score of 79 for the 2013 model year.

The institute has recommended every one of the Lexus models it has tested to date, and said that the company's products won out thanks to "a foundation of plush and very reliable vehicles."

Meanwhile, Mazda and Subaru tied for the second-highest scoring report cars, with scores of 76. Subaru earned praised for sporting models like the BRZ, which CR testers apparently had a lot of fun driving (naturally), while the Mazda products were lauded for their blend of practicality, sportiness and efficiency. Both of the Japanese brands offered good handling, fuel economy and versatility, said Consumer Reports.

The institute has recommended every one of the Lexus models it has tested to date.

Acura and Toyota rounded out the top five with twin scores of 74 points. A full eight out of the top ten best brands were Japanese companies, with Audi (eighth place) and Mercedes-Benz (tenth place) the only European companies with high-ranking scores. CR noted that those Euro brands were inconsistent this year, with Volkswagen losing ground and Mini doing the worst overall of the European brands, at 20 out of 26 overall.

Domestic automakers didn't do particularly well, either. Cadillac was at the tops of the General Motors portfolio, but was still held back by just average reliability and no love at CR for "complicated CUE controls," a complaint we've heard before. Ford and Lincoln were also dinged for their infotainment systems and reliability, as well as for EcoBoost engines that didn't deliver on promised fuel economy ratings. Chrysler brands were the worst off, however, with just the Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee V6 and Chrysler 300 V6 being recommended by the publication. Scroll down for the full list of Brand Report Card scores, as well as the Consumer Reports press release, or head over to CR's website to read the full feature and find out the granular info behind each of the brands.

Continue reading Lexus, Mazda and Subaru top Consumer Reports Brand Report Cards

Lexus, Mazda and Subaru top Consumer Reports Brand Report Cards originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto qualitybrand report cardscar qualityconsumer reportsconsumer reports 2013 brand report cardslexusmazdaqualitysubaruTue, 26 Feb 2013 14:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20479156/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/26/lexus-mazda-and-subaru-top-consumer-reports-brand-report/20479156/article-detail.xml 20479156 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-lexus-gs350-f-sport-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-lexus-gs350-f-sport-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford, Toyota clean up in Best Car For The Money Awards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/ford-toyota-clean-up-in-best-car-for-the-money-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/ford-toyota-clean-up-in-best-car-for-the-money-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/ford-toyota-clean-up-in-best-car-for-the-money-awards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,



The U.S. News Best Cars for the Money Awards picks winners by looking at the average transaction price, five-year total cost of ownership, the regard a car has from the automotive press, reliability figures from J.D. Power and Associates and safety data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The result, according to the magazine, is "the best combination of critical acclaim and long-term value."

Ford nabbed six of the 21 categories that received awards this year, the Focus, Fusion, Fusion Hybrid, Taurus, Escape and Edge getting trophies. Toyota and its Lexus and Scion sub-brands took another five, the Tacoma and Tundra owning the two categories given to pickup trucks. The other ten awards were split between Honda with three, Buick with two, and one each for Subaru, BMW, Hyundai, Chevrolet and Mazda.

Follow the link to see all the winners and read about why they were chosen.

Ford, Toyota clean up in Best Car For The Money Awards originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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