Autoblog

Car and Driver makes its own Mazdaspeed5

Frank Filipponio — Sat, 02 May 2009 13:06:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Minivan/Van, Crossover, Mazda

The Washtenaw Community College Vehicle Performance class that helped build Boss Wagon VI

Although the story's a bit old, Car and Driver just released the tale of their sixth Boss Wagon project online. Just like their past attempts at turning a sow's ear into a silk purse, this one starts with a casual comment that snowballs out of control. After several rethinks, copious man-hours and a lot of scratched heads, a new Boss Wagon has been birthed. This time the project takes the form of a Mazdaspeed5. Yep, Mazda's funky microvan with an extra dash of speed.

Although there are plenty of examples of the Mazdaspeed3 and Mazdaspeed6 on the road, Mazda never made a factory Mazdaspeed5. Some people think that's unacceptable, a few AB staffers included. The Mazda5 is an almost perfect family hauler, but one complaint from drivers has often been that it lacks some zoom-zoom in the engine bay. The simple fix? Because the 5 shares its underpinnings with the Mazda3, stuff in a Mazdaspeed3 turbo mill and pick up an extra 110 hp instantaneously.

Sounds simple enough, but as you'll learn by reading the article, things are never as simple as they might seem. Some eight months, 21 days, and two hours later, the only items they hadn't removed from the 5 were the sliders and liftgate, and they still aren't finished with the fine-tuning. Well, did all that work pay off? Did they turn the grocery getter into a weekend warrior? Follow the source link and find out for yourselves.

[Source: Car and Driver]

Car and Driver makes its own Mazdaspeed5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 02 May 2009 13:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gallery: Detroit 2009: 2010 Mazda3 five-door

[Source: Autocar]

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

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Spy Shots: Mazdaspeed 3 spotted at the 'Ring

Noah Joseph — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 11:27:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Hatchback, Mazda

Click above for high-res gallery of 2010 Mazdaspeed3 spy shots

With the new 2010 Mazda3 on its way, the next logical question for any gearhead worth his driving shoes is when we'll set our eyes on the next Mazdaspeed version. Well, we have our answer already if the latest batch of spy shots are to be believed.

The current Mazdaspeed3, also known as the Mazda3 MPS in Europe and the Mazdaspeed Axela in the Japanese domestic market, is a veritable barn-stormer and Mazda's performance engineers will be eager to follow up with an even hotter version of the new model. This prototype, bearing all the hallmarks of the new 3 coupled with all manner of performance bolt-ons, was spotted lapping the vaunted Nürburgring Nordschleife wearing a bit of camo and a lot of speed. The shots reveal the presence of a big ol' hood scoop, oversized alloys, a full aero kit and dual exhaust. Of course, the next question is what engine will be crammed under that gaping bonnet vent, with some suggesting a revamped version of the current model's direct-inject 2.3-liter turbo four and others the Volvo-derived 2.5-liter five-cylinder turbo slated to crank out 300 hp in the new Euro-only Ford Focus RS. Tantalizing options, both, but we'll just have to wait and see what the Zoom-Zoom crew have in store for us.

Gallery: 2010 Mazdaspeed3 - spy shots

[Source: KGP Photography]

Spy Shots: Mazdaspeed 3 spotted at the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Final Word: No Mazdaspeed MX-5

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 19:26:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Convertible, Mazda

Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2008 Mazda MX-5.

Speculation has been swirling over the last two years that a Mazdaspeed version of the MX-5 was right around the corner. At first, it was rumored to be released in late 2007, then early 2008, then early 2009 and then... nothing.

Speaking with Autoblog, Mazda's PR man Jeremy Barnes made it clear that the automaker has no plans to offer a Mazdaspeed version of the current MX-5. While it was originally assumed that the turbocharged 2.3-liter four-pot found in the Mazdaspeed3 would eventually find its way under the hood of the MX-5, Mazda discovered that the swap wasn't a bolt-in affair. According to Barnes, "It does theoretically fit, until you bolt on the head." A high-pressure fuel pump on the back of the head, driven off the cam, would necessitate a notch in the firewall. As such, converting the engine from a transverse (FWD) to a longitudinal (RWD) layout just wasn't feasible.

Thankfully, in addition to Mazdaspeed's own lineup of suspension and engine components, aftermarket companies are developing their own forced induction systems for the NC MX-5. Cosworth is currently testing a supercharger and Flyin' Miata is a couple months away from releasing its own centrifugal blower.

Gallery: Review: 2008 Mazda MX-5 Hardtop

The Final Word: No Mazdaspeed MX-5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Aug 2008 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cosworth supercharger for NC Mazda Miata almost ready

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:58:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Convertible, Mazda

Until the Mazdaspeed version of the MX-5 makes its debut, those of us looking for forced-induction power from Mazda's NC Miata must turn to the aftermarket. Of all the tuning firms looking to turbo- or supercharge the new MX-5, Cosworth has both the reputation and technological prowess to pull it off sans drama.

According to Eric Hsu, founder of XS Engineering and current Cosworth engineer, despite some setbacks, Cosworth will be releasing its bolt-on supercharger soon. The setup produces approximately 210 hp at the wheels, looks OEM clean and is designed to be legal in all 50 states. But Cosworth isn't stopping there. Hsu says that a Stage 2 version is planned that ups the boost, adds a set of headers and includes some hotter cams. We can't wait to check it out, particularly with the "1G" suspension package offered by Mazdaspeed.

[Source: Beyond the Dyno]

Cosworth supercharger for NC Mazda Miata almost ready originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 May 2008 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mazda2 MPS and 280 hp Mazda6 MPS on their way

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 13:29:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Paris Motor Show, Hatchback, Mazda, UK

Click either image for a high-res rendering of each model from AutoExpress.

The Mazda Performance Series, or MPS, is what we've come to know in the U.S. as "Mazdaspeed." It's quickly becoming one of the defining characteristics of modern-day Mazdas, and with the releases of the new Mazda6 and its baby brother, the Mazda2, we've been anxiously awaiting Mazdaspeed's tweaked versions of both vehicles.

In addition to getting the scoop on the new Evo MR and STI Spec C, AutoExpress has got the goods on Mazda's two new hot offerings. A concept version of the Mazda6 MPS will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in October, complete with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four, sending 280 hp to all four wheels, and sprinting to 60 in six seconds. Naturally, the Mazda6 MPS (or Mazdaspeed6 when it makes the trek to U.S. shores) will be sporting an aggressive front clip, spoiler, side skirts, bigger wheels, a stiffer suspension and upgraded brakes when it goes on sale in 2010.

Less information is available about the Mazda2 MPS, but expect a turbo'd 1.5-liter mill sending around 170 hp to the front wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and some exterior and interior tweaks to bring it up to Mazda Performance standards. If and when the Mazda2 makes it to the States, we'd expect the Mazdaspeed2 version to follow shortly thereafter.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Mazda2 MPS and 280 hp Mazda6 MPS on their way originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Apr 2008 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Mazda MX-5 is coming with Mazda6 cues

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 06:58:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Mazda

According to an attendee at a recent Mazda dealer meeting, we'll be seeing a refreshed version of the MX-5 late next year as a 2010 model. After catching a brief glimpse of the new MX-5, a forum member at Miata.net posted that the 2010 model will be sporting headlamps and taillights similar to those found on the redesigned Mazda6, and will benefit from a few other improvements including a slight increase in power. While we can't confirm any of this, we've heard similar rumblings in the not-so-distant past, and with the redesigned Mazda3 right around the corner, Mazda might be trying to lend a bit more stylistic cohesion to its lineup before full revamps take place after the turn of the decade.

However, one piece is missing from the Miata puzzle. What about the Mazdaspeed version of the MX-5? It's been assumed that Mazda would release a boosted version of its iconic roadster before the next model debuts. If the facelifted version is indeed bound for the 2010 model year, that could be an indication that a Mazdaspeed MX-5 is on its way. Here's hoping.

[Source: Miata.net]

2010 Mazda MX-5 is coming with Mazda6 cues originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Apr 2008 06:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rendered Speculation: Mazda6 coupe, convertible

Dan Roth — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 12:55:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Sedan, Japan, Mazda, Rendered Speculation

Mazda's 6 is having a tough time finding love in its home market where it goes by the Atenza moniker. 7Tune is reporting that Mazda's going to flip the script and introduce three new variants of the Atenza; a coupe, a convertible, and a high performance version called the Mazdaspeed Atenza for JDM consumption. Mazda looked to the holy-grail BMW 3 series for inspiration, though that car is rear-wheel-drive, and hopes to achieve the same build quality with its Atenza line.

The vehicles in 7Tunes renderings are more conservatively styled than the current 3-Series, though that's hardly a bad thing. We think the renderings are easy on the eyes, with clear RX-8 influences, though all suffer from a basket-handle spoiler tacked on to the trunklid. It's tough to imagine the Mazdaspeed Atenza amounting to anything other than a tasty snack for the monstrous M3, though we're sure the Mazda will comport itself sportily. If any of this conjecture rings true, it's tough to go wrong benchmarking the icon of the segment.

[Source: 7tune]

Rendered Speculation: Mazda6 coupe, convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Apr 2008 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mazdaspeed success proves you don't need NASCAR, F1 to prove your worth

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 08:57:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Mazda

Head out to any open track day and it's likely that you'll find more Mazda vehicles making the rounds on the tarmac than almost any other make. It's not rare to find out that at least one of the instructors doing a ride-along campaigns a Spec Miata, and during our last event, the same guy that flogged his caged MX-5 around the course (and was kind enough to help us figure out turn six) got into a Mazdaspeed3 for the long trek home from Thunderhill.

Mazdas currently account for around half the cars running during SCCA events, something that seems to be better for the brand than throwing big money at NASCAR or F1 in pursuit of serious performance credibility. And it's not just good for perception. Mazda sold $6.9 million in parts to grassroots teams last year and is expected to increase that amount to $7.8 million this year. While that's a small percentage of the overall Mazdaspeed sales for the year (MS products account for around $130 million total), it's obvious that Mazda has set the pace for any other automaker that wants to get in on the ground floor of racing.

Mazda's success is primarily based around its expansive lineup of products - everything from basic bolt-ons to ceramic apex seals for rotary engines -plus, SCCA-licensed racers can buy cars at discount, hit up the dealer for parts and if they forgot something come race day, there's a good chance that Mazdaspeed has a trailer at the event. The old adage of "race Sunday, sell Monday" holds less value today than it has in the past, but Mazda could redefine the saying to "Sell (parts) Friday, race hard Sunday."

[Source: Autoweek]

Mazdaspeed success proves you don't need NASCAR, F1 to prove your worth originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Mar 2008 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mazda2 for America, with diesels?

Michael Harley — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Europe, Mazda

Click above for more high-res shots of the Mazda2 sedan

As Mazda watches the North American auto market become more like the European market, we just may see the Mazda2 itself on our shores, in addition to the Ford Fiesta. And there is a good chance it may arrive with a diesel powerplant. These revelations spilled from the mouth of Jim O'Sullivan, president of Mazda North American, while sharing sandwiches with reporters over lunch in Detroit.

The Mazda2 four-door, introduced in Geneva last year, has been a hot seller overseas. The three-door Mazda2, set to debut at the 2008 Geneva Auto Show tomorrow, is expected to be just as well received. O'Sullivan rightfully pointed out that the passenger car market in the United States is showing signs of evolving. Smaller cars are becoming more widespread and accepted (witness the 20,000 pre-orders for the Smart fortwo), and the compact Mazda3 has historically sold very well. While we welcome a Mazda2 in gas or diesel trim, bring us a Mazdaspeed2 like this, and if it is anything like the Mazdaspeed3, we'll be first in line.

Gallery: 2008 Mazda2 Sedan

Gallery: 2008 Mazda2 3-Door (EU)

[Source: The Car Connection]

Mazda2 for America, with diesels? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Mar 2008 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tokyo Auto Salon '08: Mazdaspeed Demio Concept

Alex Nunez — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 16:29:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Budget, Japan, Hatchback, Mazda, Tokyo Auto Salon

click above for more images of the Mazdaspeed Demio Concept

Here's another one that we're very curious to read more about when Mazda gets around to issuing its sweeping Tokyo Auto Salon release. The car shown, of course, is the Demio, a.k.a. Mazda2, a.k.a one of the cool non-US market cars we'd love to see in our local showrooms. In this case, it's a fully-dressed Mazdaspeed Demio concept. In addition to the full aero package (new bumpers, spoilers, skirts, inserts, etc.), it boasts Mazdaspeed wheels, brakes, and likely some suspension upgrades. Whether there are any changes under the hood is not currently known, but it'd be a shame to look that fast with no guts to back it up. Inside, two-tone racing seats and various dress-up bits bring the Demio's cabin upmarket. We'd rather see a manual transmission instead of the show car's automatic, but if Mazda does decide to go all the way and produce a Mazdaspeed2/Demio somewhere down the line, were sure that a manual cog-swapper would be part of the mix. At the very least, we now have a very good idea of what such a car would probably look like.

[Source: Carview]

Gallery: Mazdaspeed Demio Concept

Tokyo Auto Salon '08: Mazdaspeed Demio Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Dec 2007 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2008 Tokyo Auto Salon: Mazda's three 'Speed-enhanced models

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 09:02:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Coupe, Sedan, Hatchback, Mazda, Tokyo Auto Salon

Click either image for a gallery of high-res pics.

Mazda's presence at the Tokyo Auto Salon, the great aftermarket emporium in the East, will be marked with three Mazdaspeed concepts that should give us an insight into what's in store for the automaker's in-house performance arm.

The Atenza/Mazda6 concept we saw last week will be joined by hotted-up Axela (Mazda3) and Demio (Mazda2) models that receive a fair share of body enhancements and interior upgrades. Unfortunately, Mazda has yet to release an English language press release on its Japanese site and Google doesn't seem to be keen on providing a translation. However, we know that Japanese tuning houses, Ken Style and DAMD, had their hands in the development, so we'll see what's released when the show gets underway January 11 through 13.

[Sources: Mazda, Carview]

Gallery: Mazda Mazdaspeed Concepts - Tokyo Auto Salon

2008 Tokyo Auto Salon: Mazda's three 'Speed-enhanced models originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rendered Speculation: Mazda3 interpretation gets it all wrong?

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 18:27:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Wagon, Hatchback, Mazda

The blokes over from AutoExpress tapped an artist to photochop the next Mazda3, supposedly utilizing sources within the automaker, and although it looks like an inoffensive evolution of the current model, we're somewhat doubtful that it's an accurate representation of what's to come.

Earlier this week, Automotive News sat down with Mazda's design chief, Laurens van den Acker, who said that the redesigned 2009 Mazda3 would take several cues from the Nagare line of concepts. All of the concepts featured a prominent five-point grille and "flow" inspired creases flanking the sides. In the rendering above, we don't see any of those elements. Instead, it's simply the integration of a few of the cues found on the new Mazda6 and its CUV/SUV siblings.

The Brits assert that the next 3 will be built atop the longer platform slated to underpin the 2010 Ford Focus, featuring a more spacious interior with higher quality materials, with a Mazdaspeed version (MPS abroad) that will utilize the 2.5-liter mill from the new Mazda6.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Rendered Speculation: Mazda3 interpretation gets it all wrong? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2007 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mazda Atenza Mazdaspeed Concept foretells next Mazdaspeed6

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 12:31:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Sedan, Mazda, Tokyo Auto Salon

Click the image above for a gallery.

The 2008 Tokyo Auto Salon is right around the corner and despite rumblings that Mazda isn't considering making a 'Speed version of the Atenza/Mazda6, it's trotting out a concept to Japan's premier tuner expo to gauge consumer interest.

What's being dubbed the "Mazda Atenza Mazdaspeed Concept" found its way onto the Web, but information about the body kit-equipped concept is sorely lacking. We know it'll be coming to the show with new front and rear bumpers and some mild aero modifications, along with new side skirts, a lower ride height and a set of 18-inch 10-spoke wheels. Beyond that, it's anyone's guess as to what's powering the new 6 and how that power is finding its way down to the road.

Regardless, we've been able to source a couple of good photos of the concept and are hoping to have more information about all of Mazda's concepts bound for 2008 TAS soon.

[Source: Autocar]

Gallery: Mazda Mazdaspeed Concepts - Tokyo Auto Salon

Mazda Atenza Mazdaspeed Concept foretells next Mazdaspeed6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2007 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mazdaspeed2 is a possibility, restyled RX-8 coming to Tokyo

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 17:02:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Performance, Japan, Tokyo Motor Show, Hatchback, Mazda

The questionably named Brit-pub What Car? is reporting what's already been suspected; that Mazda is seriously considering a MazdaSpeed version of the sub compact Mazda2. It's been rumored that a 2.0-liter turbocharged, direct-injected motor may find its way underhood, pushing out 230 HP and 231 lb.-ft. of torque (!). But as we already know, the Mazda2 won't be making its way Stateside anytime soon, which would truly be a shame if the MS2 was ever realized.

Additionally, the magazine is reporting that Mazda will be unveiling a revised version of the RX-8 at the Tokyo Motor Show next month. Although details about the reskin weren't disclosed, there will be a gasoline/hydrogen electric hybrid concept on the stand.

[Source: What Car?]

Mazdaspeed2 is a possibility, restyled RX-8 coming to Tokyo originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Sep 2007 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mazdaspeed MX-5 coming mid-2008, Kabura still in the works

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 09:25:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Coupe, Crossover, Mazda

The folks who bring us all the News from the Automotive world supplied Autoweek, their sister publication, details on what is to become of the Mazda lineup over the next three years. Most of it is predictable enough, including the new Mazda6, due to be unveiled in Frankfurt, the refresh of the Mazda3 and the possibility of bringing the Mazda2 Stateside at the turn of the decade.

What caught our interest was the news of a Mazdaspeed MX-5, which will predictably be packing the turbocharged 2.3-liter liter four-pot that currently resides in the Mazdaspeed3, albeit slightly detuned to efficiently package the radiator and intercooler.

The Kabura concept, based off of the MX-5 underpinnings, may still be in the cards, as long as the automaker can include Europe and/or Japan in the production plans. Revisions would have to be made to the existing platform, but we suspect that it wouldn't take much to lengthen the wheelbase, slap on some new body panels and make the fixed-roof version of the Miata that we've longed for.

Also mentioned in the article was the forthcoming redesign of the RX-8, likely to bow sometime in 2009 or 2010, along with a new CX-5 which will likely draw cues from the Kuga concept set to be shown by Ford next month in Frankfurt. The only glaring omission: no mention of an RX-7 revival -- bummer.

[Source: Autoweek]

Mazdaspeed MX-5 coming mid-2008, Kabura still in the works originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Aug 2007 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mazda2 MPS reportedly in the works

Chris Shunk — Wed, 04 Jul 2007 15:02:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Hatchback, Mazda

The highly-anticipated Mazda2 still hasn't been launched in Europe, and word out of Hiroshima is that an MPS (a.k.a. Mazdaspeed) version is already in the works. Mazda's 2.0L powerplant will be outfitted with direct injection and turbocharging to the tune of 230hp and 231 lb-ft torque. With every souped-up vehicle comes the prerequisite larger wheels and body kit, and Mazda isn't one to shun tradition, so we'll see all the added goodies on the hotted-up little hatch. Chances are that the boosted Mazda econobox won't hit US shores (after all, the Mazda2/Demio's only planned for Europe and Japan right now), and we're more disappointed than surprised. If this rumored edition is as good a deal as the blown Mazda3, then it'll be a shame for it not to grace our shores.

[Source: Winding Road]

Mazda2 MPS reportedly in the works originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Jul 2007 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Roadster Mazdaspeed M'z Tune now on sale in Japan

Alex Nunez — Mon, 09 Apr 2007 15:01:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Japan, Mazda

Click image to enlarge

Introduced as one of the many "concepts" Mazda trotted out for the 2007 Tokyo Auto Salon, the Roadster Mazdaspeed M'z Tune has shed that part of its moniker and is now available through Mazda's Japanese stores as of April 6. A product of Mazda E&T (Engineering & Technology), the M'z tune sheds its open-spoke 5-star wheels and fender-mounted side extractor vents in the transition from concept to production vehicle. 10-spoke alloys and a regular, vent-free fender appear on the customer cars, and the concept's Mazdaspeed badging is carried through.

[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Roadster Mazdaspeed M'z Tune now on sale in Japan

Roadster Mazdaspeed M'z Tune now on sale in Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Apr 2007 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mazda announces ALMS entry, rotorheads weep

Frank Filipponio — Thu, 11 Jan 2007 12:01:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Mazda

That thing got a rotary in it? Nope, not this year. Dashing the hopes of Rotorheads everywhere, Mazda announced that it will be using an AER built conventional engine in its 2007 ALMS cars. Looks like pride and heritage will take a back seat to winning. As MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development Manager Steve Sanders explained, the rules just make it too difficult for a rotary to be competitive right now. But this new AER-developed 2.0-liter 4 promises to offer a lot in the way of Zoom-Zoom.

More info and full press release after the jump.

[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Mazda announces ALMS entry, rotorheads weep

Mazda announces ALMS entry, rotorheads weep originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Jan 2007 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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V-Dub may pimp der own autos

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 06 Nov 2006 08:28:00 EST

Filed under: SEMA Show, Budget, Performance, Hatchback, Volkswagen

When Volkswagen lampooned the slow and show crowd during the marketing of their new GTI, they took a much-needed swing at the purveyors and consumers of the automotive detritus that makes up most of SEMA. When VW showed up with two of their own tweaked vehicles in Vegas, we couldn't help but imagine the manufacturers of the super-battle-tsunami-ninja-aero body kit scowling at the VW booth right before hocking a loogie onto the hood of the "Thunder Bunny."

Volkswagen's decision to participate in SEMA served a dual purpose -- they could not only gauge interest in offering factory-backed performance accessories, but they're also looking into producing specialized versions of their most popular models.

The aforementioned "Thunder Bunny" is one of the more intriguing production considerations, not only because of the performance, but because it would directly compete with the GTI. Neuspeed developed a turbocharger system for the 'Bunny that produces 225 HP, from the 2.5-liter inline-five and when equipped with the Bilstein coilovers and Brembo brakes is an instant competitor in the sport compact arena.

V-dub's philosophy with tuning seems to be right on par with most potential buyers of the MazdaSpeed3 or Civic Si, namely offering class-leading performance, with a minimum of fanfare. As an example, one VW exec said 17-inch wheels would be chosen over 19- or 20-inch rollers, as the latter compromises handling and drivability. Those kinds of thoughts finding a voice are exactly what we like to hear and we look forward to results.

[Source: Automotive News -Sub. Req.]

V-Dub may pimp der own autos originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Nov 2006 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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