Mazda Black Tuned Roadster

Mazda has released the Special Edition Black Tuned Roadster for the Japanese market.

Based on the Roadster RHT (retractable hard top), the BLACK TUNED edition comes in either RS trim (6MT) or VS trim (6AT) and comes with a black roof, black wheels, black grille, black rear roll bar garnish, black leather seats, black door trim, fog lights and Bose stereo.

Three external body colors are available, including two exclusive colors � Spirited Green Metallic and Velocity Red Mica � and the popular Crystal White Pearl Mica.

The cars comes with a 2.0 liter DOHC engine and a six-speed manual as standard. A six-speed automatic is optional.

The special edition of the MX-5 in Japan also comes with the Brilliant Black of the folding hard-top roof and side mirrors, unique interior contrasting black leather with sand-colored stitching and it�s sitting on Gun Metallic 17 inch alloy wheels.





Press Release

Mazda Releases Special Edition 'BLACK TUNED Roadster' in Japan

- Stylish model with Power Retractable Hard Top, alloy wheels and other parts in exclusive colors -

HIROSHIMA, Japan-Mazda Motor Corporation has released the Mazda Roadster BLACK TUNED, a special edition version of its iconic lightweight, two-seat, open-top sports car for the Japanese market. The special edition Roadster (known overseas as the Mazda MX-5) goes on sale today at all Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealerships nationwide.

The Mazda Roadster originally launched in 1989 and is currently sold in approximately 60 countries around the world. Total production stands at over 900,000 units and the Roadster is officially certified by Guinness World Records as the world's "Best selling two-seater sports car".

The special edition BLACK TUNED Roadster is based on the premium 'RS RHT' and 'VS RHT' model grades that feature Mazda's groundbreaking power retractable hard top (RHT). The BLACK TUNED theme is reflected in stylish special features including a Brilliant Black roof and door mirrors, and Gun Metallic 17-inch alloy wheels. Interior quality is also enhanced, with the seats and steering wheel covered in black leather with sand-colored stitching.

Three external body colors are available, including two exclusive colors - Spirited Green Metallic and Velocity Red Mica - and the popular Crystal White Pearl Mica.

Main features of the special edition Mazda Roadster BLACK TUNED

Base models
Mazda Roadster RS RHT with 2.0-liter DOHC engine and six-speed manual transmission, and Mazda Roadster VS RHT with 2.0-liter DOHC engine and six-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission.
Special equipment

* Power Retractable Hard Top (Brilliant Black)
* 17-inch alloy wheels (Gun Metallic)
* Front grille garnish (Brilliant Black)
* Door mirrors (Brilliant Black)
* Rear roll bar garnish (Brilliant Black)
* Black leather seats (with sand-colored stitching)
* Black door trim (with sand-colored stitching)
* Decoration panel (piano black)
* Leather-wrapped steering wheel (with sand-colored stitching and piano black switch bezels)
* Leather-wrapped parking brake lever (with sand-colored stitching)
* Front fog lights (clear) and fog light bezels (black)
* Outer door handles (body-colored)
* Bose� sound system (AUDIOPILOT^TM2) and seven speakers (no head unit)
* Leather-wrapped shift knob (with chrome ring) *1
* Soft pads on the side door trim arm rests (synthetic leather) *2
* Soft pad on the center console lid (synthetic leather) *2
* Seat heaters (with five temperature settings) *2
* Front suspension tower bar (built into the cowl) *3

Factory-installed option
Six-disc CD changer with AM/FM radio/MP3/WMA*4 player and AUX jack
Exterior body colors
There is a choice of three exterior body colors: Spirited Green Metallic (exclusive), Velocity Red Mica (exclusive) and Crystal Pearl White Mica (special body color).

Mazda CX-5 2012 spec and review

Mazda CX-5 2012 spec and review
Mazda CX-5, the all-new compact crossover SUV, is a production model based on the MINAGI Concept which was unveiled at the Geneva Auto Show 2011. Also, the CX-5 will be the first production vehicle to incorporate Mazda�s new design theme, �KODO � Soul of Motion� as debuted on the Mazda SHINARI concept car. The CX-5 will join Mazda�s global line-up in 2012 and will be on display at the upcoming Frankfurt Auto Show.

[Source: Mazda]

Mazda 2 and MX-5 Black Edition

Japanese car manufacturer Mazda has released Black Editions of the MX-5 and 2 models, inspired by the success of the MX-5 GT race car.

The MX-5 Sport Black features a black folding metal roof and is available in green, pearl white or red mica. It comes with 17-inch gunmetal alloy wheels, black leather, piano black trim details and �Black Limited Edition� badging, as well as a numbered interior plaque.

Power comes from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 160 PS (118 kW / 158 hp). It enables the car to accelerate from 0-62 mph in 7.9 seconds and hit a top speed of 136 mph (219 km/h).

The model also comes with black leather interior with contrasting �sand� color stitching, Piano Black steering wheel and deco panel, and unique �Black Limited Edition� exterior badging, uniquely numbered interior plaque and Limited
Click to enlarge [Mazda MX-5 Sport Black]
Mazda MX-5 Sport Black
Edition floor mats.

Only 500 units of the MX-5 Black Limited Edition will be manufactured and customers will have to spend 22.995 pounds before they can get their hands on one. On the other hand, 618 units of the Mazda 2 Black Edition will be available, with a 12.815 pounds price.




Press Release

Mazda Press Release: Mazda unleashes track-inspired 'Black Limited Edition' MX-5 and Mazda2

• Mazda MX-5 Sport Black inspired by this year's highly successful MX-5 GT race car
• Mazda2 Black introduces a black vinyl roof, privacy glass and matt black alloy wheels
• Only 500 and 618, respectively of these Limited Edition Mazdas available for the UK market

Inspired by the highly successful 275bhp Mazda MX-5 GT race car competing in the 2011 Britcar Production GTN Championship, Mazda has introduced two new 'Black Limited Edition' models - a Mazda MX-5 Sport Black and a Mazda2 Black - bringing a darker edge to Mazda's model range.

The success of the 850kg MX-5 GT race car is that is retains the same characteristics that make the road-going Mazda MX-5 a great handling, nimble and fun-to-drive roadster. In its first year of racing the MX-5 GT has achieved two podiums and is currently third in class. The MX-5 GT race car continues to challenge convention, taking on the more powerful established race cars from Lotus, BMW and Ferrari.

The success of this year's MX-5 race programme and the popularity of MX-5 GT has lead to the track-inspired 'Black Limited Edition' Mazda MX-5 and Mazda2. Available from mid-July, the Mazda MX-5 Sport Black is distinguished by unique paint finishes and an enhanced specification, offering more for a lower price than the car it's based on. Externally the car is highlighted by a Brilliant Black powered retractable hard-top, this is in contrast with the choice of bodywork colours - Spirited Green metallic, Crystal White Pearlescent and Velocity Red mica - but compliments the dark 'gun metal' 17-inch alloy wheels.

The model also comes with black leather interior with contrasting 'sand' colour stitching, Piano Black steering wheel and deco panel, and unique 'Black Limited Edition' exterior badging, uniquely numbered interior plaque and Limited Edition floor mats.

The MX-5 Sport Black incorporates the generous equipment specification of the Sport Tech model, including climate control air-conditioning, a premium Bose� audio system, an integrated hands-free Bluetooth� system, cruise control and front fog lights. Owners will also benefit from the world's fastest folding powered retractable roof, which goes up or down in 12 seconds.

Only 500 examples of the Mazda MX-5 Sport Black will be produced, each costing �22,995 (OTR), just �360 more than the 160ps, 2.0-litre, six-speed transmission Sport Tech model on which it is based.

"Special Edition models of the Mazda MX-5 have always been eagerly received by UK consumers, and the new Sport Black model takes inspiration from the MX-5 GT race car that embodies Mazda's Defy Convention brand strategy," comments Peter Allibon, Sales Director, Mazda Motors UK. "Both the race car and road-going sportscar remain true to their roots, those of driving entertainment, great handling and fun to drive. The Sport Black model delivers a distinctive and sharper edge to our long-running star performer and as in the Britcar Production GTN Championship, it remains unrivalled as a rewarding sportscar."

Five-door Mazda2 with attitude

Following the MX-5 Sport Black theme, the new Limited Edition Mazda2 Black five-door is also available in Spirited Green metallic, Crystal White Pearlescent and True Red. Based on the 84ps, 1.3-litre Tamura model, the Mazda2 Black adds a black vinyl roof, matt black 16-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, privacy glass and a rear bumper sports trim.

Inside, there is the Sports interior with climate control air-conditioning, a Parrot Bluetooth� hands-free system, electric rear windows, plus unique 'Black Edition' exterior badging, uniquely numbered interior plaque and Limited Edition floor mats.

Inspired again by Mazda's convention-defying race car, just 618 examples of the Mazda2 Black will be produced, with prices starting at �12,395 (OTR) for the True Red version and �12,815 for the other metallic and pearlescent colours.

The next Britcar race takes place at the Snetterton race circuit from 13-14 August 2011.

STANDARD EQUIPMENT

Mazda MX-5 Sport Black
Additional equipment above MX-5 Sport Tech Roadster Coupe

Unique dark Gun Metal 17-inch alloy wheels
Three unique exterior colours
Brilliant Black painted powered retractable hardtop
Black door mirrors
Black fashion bars
Alloy pedal set
Unique 'sand' colour stitching on Black leather seats, steering wheel and handbrake
Piano Black finish to steering wheel and deco panel
Unique, numbered plaque and 'Black Edition' branded floor mats

Mazda2 Black
Additional equipment above Mazda2 Tamura

Unique matt Black 16-inch alloy wheels
Black vinyl roof
Dark rear privacy glass
Rear sports bumper
Front fog lights
Climate-control air-conditioning
Parrot Bluetooth� system
Electric rear windows
Black sports interior trim with red piping
Unique, numbered dashboard plaque and 'Black Edition' branded floor mats

2011 Mazda MX-5 Karai

The new Mazda MX-5 Karai is based on the 2011 MX-5 Roadster coupe that comes with a retractable hardtop. It features a distinctive Metal Green Metallic paint job with contrasting glossy black finish on the surrounding parts. In addition, it comes with a set of dark 17-inch alloy wheels to compliment the black contrast theme.

Under the bonnet, power comes from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine able to produce 160 horsepower while a new exhaust and a revised suspension system are available at an extra cost. The new Mazda MX-5 Karai that is limited at 165 units will be available for order starting next month, as mentioned, only in Germany. According to the Japanese manufacturer, buying the new MX-5 Karai special edition will bring you a Sinn watch matching the car�s colors for no extra cost.

On the inside, the MX-5 Karai features a pair of Recaro sport seats trimmed in black leather and Alcantara with white stitching, aluminum pedals, leather steering wheel with white stitching while Mazda says all the interior trim pieces that are usually finished in silver are now painted in a glossy black color.

Mazda plans to release 165 copies of Karai, designed specifically for the German market. Prices start at EUR 30 000 (43 500 $). Car sales will start in August this year. All buyers will receive a free branded watches Sinn dials with green.



 

Mazda BT-50 Freestyle Cab to debut in Melbourne

Mazda has the world premiere of the new Mazda BT-50 Freestyle Cab will be held at the Australian International Motor Show in Melbourne announced.

One of the unique pickup that is, both doors can be opened in the opposite direction and and do not use the pillar B. So that, 2012 Mazda BT-50 Freestyle it could open the door wide up to 1408 millimeters (mm). Not only that, blessing the wide-open door without a hitch and B pillar, the back passenger comfort is also increased.

The new model promises to offer improved comfort levels for rear-seat passengers, mainly thanks to longer seats (by 50mm) which give greater thigh support, and higher seat-backs (by 128mm).

No mention is made of the powertrains for the Freestyle Cab, but engine options should be the new 197 hp and 470 Nm MZ-CD 3.2 litre turbodiesel engine, with either six-speed auto or manual transmissions, and the MZ-CD 2.2 litre diesel unit, offering 148 hp and 375 Nm, the same mills the dual-cab will wear for Australia.

Press Release

All-new Mazda BT-50 Freestyle Cab To Make Its Global Debut At Aims

Mazda has confirmed that the Freestyle Cab version of its All-New BT-50 utility will make its global debut at the upcoming Australian International Motor Show to be held in Melbourne on 1 - 10 July.

Utilising the revolutionary Freestyle door configuration first seen on the RX-8, the BT-50 Freestyle Cab offers a unique combination of seating for four, an exceptionally wide pillar-less door opening, and a large carrying capacity.

On each side of the cabin, a front-hinged door and a rear access panel combine to provide a 1,408mm-wide opening that makes for easy entry to and exit from either the front or rear seats.

Rear-seat comfort has been taken to levels never seen before in the Freestyle Cab. Cushions have been lengthened by 50mm for better thigh support and more stable fitment of child seats while the seatback height has been increased by 128mm.

The rear seat cushions can be removed and with the rear access panels opening to an angle of nearly 90 degrees, the option of loading and storing cargo into the rear seating area of the cab has never been easier.

A further advantage of the All-New BT-50 Freestyle Cab is its capacious carrying capacity. The cargo tub has increased in width, length and height resulting in an overall cargo volume of 1,453 litres. This is an increase of 266 litres over the equivalent current model.

Mazda Australia managing director, Doug Dickson, points to the significance of this global unveiling. "Just as we were delighted to be given the privilege of hosting the global debut of the All-New BT-50 Dual Cab in Sydney last year, we are equally delighted to be hosting the global debut of the Freestyle Cab in Melbourne this year. With Australia expected to be the largest market for the All-New BT-50 it's no coincidence that we've been asked to host not one but two global unveilings of this important new model. It's only appropriate that the Australian public see it first."

The All-New Mazda BT-50 will go on sale later this year.

2011 Mazda MX-5 GT Race Car

This is the new Mazda MX-5 GT, the fastest, lightest Mazda-produced MX-5 ever. Unfortunately, it's also the company's new entry for this year's Britcar MSA British Endurance Championship, so you won't be seeing it on the road anytime soon.

Designed to compete in this year�s Britcar MSA British Endurance Championship, the standard MX-5 has been completely reworked to FIA specifications. It features a modified version of Mazda�s 2.0-litre in-line four, developing 275bhp - up 117bhp on the road going version - and mated to a six-speed sequential paddle shift �box.

The car is also fitted with FIA-spec gear such as roll cage, racing seats with harness, external electric cut-off and fire extinguisher, competition alloy wheels and steering wheel, and safety latches for the bonnet and boot lid.

Under the bonnet is seriously tuned and tweaked 2.0-litre engine. Rather than 158bhp the four-cylinder engine now produces 275bhp. It also sits lower in the racer, and drives the rear wheels via a six-speed sequential gearbox.

The Mazda MX-5 GT will compete in its first race at the Britcar MSA British Endurance Championship three-hour endurance race at Silverstone, scheduled to start at 3:00pm on March 26.




Press Release

MAZDA MX-5 GT BREAKS COVER

• Mazda MX-5 GT entry into Britcar MSA British Endurance Championship 2011
• Lightweight Mazda MX-5 GT race car to challenge conventional thinking
• Mazda MX-5 GT remains true to its roots but with more power and performance

Mazda is set to challenge Aston Martin, Porsche, Lotus, and BMW on the race track with its lightweight Mazda MX-5 GT entry in the Britcar MSA British Endurance Championship 2011.

Weighing in at just 850kg, the Mazda MX-5 GT race car will accelerate from 0-to-60mph in just three seconds and hit a top speed of 160mph. The build of the car has been an engineering challenge to get the weight as low as possible using Mazda's gram strategy as the inspiration. Jota Sport examined every nut and bolt to reduce component weight and then match the power to the weight to give the lightest and most powerful MX-5 ever built.

An important aspect of the build was to ensure the Mazda MX-5 still remains true to its roots: great handling, huge fun-to-drive and the ability to challenge bigger more powerful competition, but at an affordable cost. The Mazda GT car ticks all those boxes and is now set to demonstrate its challenger spirit on the track.

Jota Sport, the race engineering team that will run the cars in the 2011 series, took 400 hours to build the shell to a specification that ensured it was 17 times stronger than required by the FIA. During the development they faced a number of engineering challenges such as suspension adjustments, integrating the six speed sequential gearbox, and lowering the engine. Weight saving strategies such as, the removal of interior components, reducing component weight and dipping the shell in acid lost 15kg from the MX-5 race car.

The completed MX-5 GT features a modified Mazda engine to produce 275bhp, a six speed sequential paddle shift gearbox, carbon doors and Polycarbonate windows. On the exterior, the Mazda MX-5 GT boasts a Spirited Green metallic body colour - a first on the MX-5 for Mazda UK - complimented by Jota Sport corporate coloured liveries in orange and grey.

Mazda is renowned for challenging conventions so the motivation to develop a MX-5 GT car comes naturally. It also comes at a time when Mazda has recently celebrated a number of milestones for MX-5 including its 21st anniversary and producing 900,000 MX-5 units globally since its introduction in 1989, with over 10 percent of global MX-5 sales from Britain. Meanwhile, the Mazda MX-5 continues to hold the Guinness World Record as the world's best?selling roadster - testament to its continued popularity with British open top sports car fans.

The Britcar MSA British Endurance Championship is contested over nine races from March to November including a race at the Spa Francorchamps circuit in Belgium. The first race is a three hour endurance race at Silverstone next weekend, Saturday 26 March 2011, starting at 3.00pm.

This is the fourth time that Mazda has entered Britcar and this year the Mazda MX-5 GT car will be driven by two Mazda works drivers including experienced Mazda racing driver Mark Ticehurst, 39 from Hassocks, West Sussex and Auto Express journalist and racing driver Owen Mildenhall.

"The MX-5 production race car's modest power output, bullet proof reliability and nimble handling demonstrated last year how the MX-5 can be competitive against some of the purpose-built Lotus, VW and BMW race cars. With a higher power output combined with the durability, reliability and handling attributes that the MX-5 is renowned for; the MX-5 GT race car will be strong contender against the more powerful race cars in its class," comments Graeme Fudge, PR Director, Mazda UK.

The Mazda MX-5 GT car, prepared by Tunbridge Wells-based Jota Sport features the mandatory FIA approved safety equipment including a roll cage, race seats and harness, external electric cut-off and fire extinguisher, safety catches on the bonnet and boot lids, competition steering wheel and alloy wheels, while the running gear, rear axle, gearbox and engine have been modified to enhance performance.

2011 Mazda MX-5 ice racing

Mazda held an MX-5 race on ice recently with teams from around the world comprising journalists, TV fans and readers competing in Sweden.

The four-hour race featured 20 of the roadsters, all fitted with studded tires, battling it out on a three-mile circuit composed of snow and ice. The competitors not only battled each other, but chilly temperatures as low as -24 degrees�Fahrenheit. The Australian team was the favorite going into race day and they held the lead most of the race until a late spin allowed the Russian team to take the win, having completed the most number of laps.

The drivers� roster was made up of automotive journalists and Mazda fans who won contests to participate. As not all had racing experience, Mazda provided two days of instruction beforehand. Ice racing is dear to our hearts; we�ve raced cheap winter beaters on a frozen lake, and competed in a sanctioned event with our long-term Subaru WRX STI. See Mazda�s short video below for hot Miata-on-ice action.



Press Release

Mazda MX-5 on Ice

• 4 hour race for journalists, TV fans and readers

• 20 modified racing MX-5s set to start

• Extensive programme with training sessions, qualifying and the race

�re, Sweden, 21 February 2011. Mazda opens the 2011 motorsport season on Swedish ice. After the successful MX-5 Open Race last year, Mazda is inviting racing enthusiasts to Sweden for the MX-5 Ice Race from 21 to 24 February 2011. A total of 20 modified MX-5s, tuned for driving on ice and wearing spike tyres, will participate in the four-hour race on the ca. 5 km grid.

The MX-5s will be piloted by teams from 26 participating nations, among them motor journalists with racing experience, and TV fans and readers who won tickets to the event in special contests. The four-day event in �re, Sweden will include two extensive training sessions, a qualifying session to determine pole and starting positions, along with the race itself which is divided into two sessions. When the snow settles, the team that drives the most laps during the four hour race will win.

Mazda MX-5 Ice Race provides exciting Finish

Lake Kallsj�n, Sweden, 24 February 2011. Mazda's MX-5 roadster proved again yesterday its pure sports cars genes, this time on ice in Sweden at the Mazda Ice Race 2011. Clear blue skies and polar temperatures provided the right conditions for an exhilarating festival of drift and control as drivers from 26 nations competed in specially modified roadsters for a podium finish.

Day 1 � the Aussie's make it look easy
After Tuesday's practice sessions and qualifying, a clear favourite emerged with the Australian team, which dominated Day 1 and took pole position. They also won the hearts of everyone by wearing swimming trucks over their racing overalls � in honour of summer down under � and driving with a tiny kangaroo mascot fastened to the top of their car's safety cage. They made it look easy on Day 1 with their only real challenge coming from the Russian team, which took second on the grid.

Day 2 � Russian Heroics and Belgium Consistency
Race day featured beautiful blue skies, glistening snow and a morning temperature
of -31� C. This ensured ideal conditions on the ice of Lake Kallsj�n, which is located in the �stersund region of west-central Sweden. The race itself was conducted in two sessions, each two hours long, with the car completing the most laps the winner. Like last year's MX-5 Open Race in Italy, it was drifting control and not pure speed that proved the decisive factor in the race. The Australians continued to dominate as they had on Day 1 and led for nearly the entire race. But then a small mistake, a spin-out, and Russia overtook them at the end, holding on for the chequered flag; with Australia second.

Russia's win followed some amazing heroics from the team. They began the race in second place but spun-out early, fell back to 14th, only to battle their way back to second by the end of the first session. They then patiently held this spot, hoping for a miracle, and were able to capitalise on Australia's misfortune at the end of the final session for a truly exciting win. The Belgium team displayed the consistently good driving you would expect from last year's MX-5 Open Race winners, coming from far back in the pack to take third. The unforgettable day out on the ice culminated with a Champagne spray on the podium from the three winning teams.

The Mazda Ice Race 2011 was crowned later that evening at a gala dinner and show for pilots, teams and invited guests who had won a Mazda competition in their home countries for a place at the event. Jeff Guyton, Mazda Motor Europe's President and CEO, gave a short speech and presented trophies to the tired but happy winners. This was followed by dinner and a celebration of MX-5 Ice Race memories lasting late into the night.

Mazda MX-5 production hits 900,000 units

The Mazda MX-5 Miata has sold 900,000 units across the world since first being introduced at the Chicago Auto Show, which starts Feb. 11, back in 1989. Since its inception, it has sold 389,000 units in the United States.

The first-generation MX-5 Miata (1990-1997 model years) was equipped with a 1.6-liter, inline four-cylinder engine that produced 116 horsepower and 100 lb-ft (135 Nm) of torque. A removable hardtop was optional and initial color choices were red, white and blue. The starting price back then was of $14,000.

A redesigned second-generation model was unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1997 (model years 1999-2005 � there was no 1998 model-year car) and the third generation model was introduced at the Geneva International Motor Show in 2005 (model years 2006-present).

The current-generation MX-5 Miata is equipped with an MZR-series 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder engine, producing 167 horsepower (158 for automatic transmission) and delivers 140 lb-ft (190 Nm) of torque. The soft-topped Sport model starts at $23,110 with top-level, Power Retractable Hard Top Grand Touring models starting at $28,550.





Press Release

900,000th Mazda MX-5 to Set New Guinness World Record

- MX-5 reaffirms its position as the world's favorite lightweight, open-top, two-seat sports car -


HIROSHIMA, Japan-Total production of Mazda Motor Corporation's MX-5 sports car (known as the Mazda Roadster in Japan) reached 900,000 units on February 4, 2011. This significant milestone was achieved 21 years and 10 months after mass production of the first-generation MX-5 commenced in April 1989. The MX-5 was initially certified by Guinness World Records as the world's "Best selling two-seat sports car" when production reached 531,890 units in May 2000. Guinness updated the record when production passed 700,000 and, later, 800,000 units. Currently, Mazda is reapplying to Guinness World Records to have the record updated to 900,000 units.

During the 1960s and 1970s, numerous lightweight and fun-to-drive sports cars offered nimble handling and free-spirited open-air motoring. In the 1980s, Mazda decided to resurrect this spirit with a new roadster for the modern age. Using the latest engineering techniques, Mazda developed the MX-5 and announced it in February 1989 as a reminder that driving could still be fun despite ever-stricter safety and quality standards. To this day, the MX-5 remains the longest enduring nameplate in Mazda's global lineup.

Nobuhiro Yamamoto, program manager of the current MX-5, said, "Since Mazda launched the original MX-5, it has undergone two complete product redesigns and a series of upgrades. Its enduring success is due to the strong support it enjoys from MX-5 fans around the world. Going forward, I will strive to keep the MX-5's spirit alive while evolving it into a car that will be loved by even more people."

Mazda's senior managing executive officer in charge of development, Seita Kanai, said, "More than 20 years have passed since the first-generation Mazda MX-5 was born. During this time, society and vehicles themselves have changed significantly. Responding to environmental issues and the depletion of the Earth's natural resources has become increasingly important for all automakers. As part of its environmental efforts, Mazda announced its new SKYACTIV technologies last year. Currently, we are pushing forward with development of future products that will incorporate these technologies. Many of the elements that go into our SKYACTIV technologies, such as comprehensive weight reduction, grew from the long years of development work that have gone into the MX-5. Indeed, the guiding principle behind the SKYACTIV technologies - to build cars that are fun to drive - is perfectly embodied by the MX-5."

"As we head toward the next production milestone of one million units," Kanai continued, "Mazda is committed to further evolving the MX-5. We will refine its fun-to-drive character and further enhance its environmental and safety capabilities. As Mazda passes its 91st birthday, we are turning our sights toward our 100th anniversary. In the years ahead, we will continue to cherish the MX-5, alongside its loyal fan base, as the symbol of the Mazda brand."

Mazda Minagi Concept

Mazda is primed and ready to go to the Geneva Motor Show with their latest concept, called Minagi.

The new model will be one of the first Mazdas to use the brand�s newest design language, Kodo, which was previewed on the Shinari concept. This new language means �soul of motion,� and should not be confused with the alien from The Simpsons, Kodos. (For starters, Kodo is Japanese, while Kodos is from Rigel VII.) The sketches show a nice evolution of Mazda�s basic crossover silhouette, as well as the disappearance of the controversial smiley-face grille.

The Minagi is a showcase of Mazda�s Skyactiv technologies, the brand�s designation for its new engine, transmission and safety packages. Mazda will show some Skyactiv hardware in Geneva, including a direct-injection gasoline engine, a clean turbocharged diesel and two transmissions.

Despite being labeled as a concept, the company hinted the Minagi "is the forerunner to the launch of Mazda's upcoming next-generation products." This seems to imply we could be looking at Mazda's version of the Ford Vertrek concept, which will go into production, possibly as the CX-5, to the replace the current Escape and Kuga.




Press Release

Mazda MINAGI Concept to Showcase Mazda's All-new SKYACTIV Technologies and KODO Design at the Geneva Motor Show

HIROSHIMA, Japan-Mazda Motor Corporation will showcase the world premiere of its new MINAGI compact crossover SUV concept car during the press days of the 2011 Geneva motor show, which is being held from March 1-13, 2011. The Mazda MINAGI concept fully embraces Mazda's new SKYACTIV technologies and its new design theme, KODO - Soul of Motion. The exciting MINAGI concept is the forerunner to the launch of Mazda's upcoming next-generation products and symbolizes the evolution of the Mazda brand as it begins a new era.

The Mazda MINAGI is a compact crossover SUV concept that combines Mazda's SKYACTIV technologies - which represent the harmony between driving pleasure and outstanding environmental and safety performance - with emotional KODO design that communicates pent-up energy bursting with vitality as the vehicle nimbly navigates a sprawling urban cityscape. Fully introducing SKYACTIV technologies throughout, MINAGI is equipped with a SKYACTIV engine and SKYACTIV transmission fitted to a SKYACTIV-Body and chassis that merge comprehensive weight reduction with the assurance of ample safety features.

Mazda's stand at the Geneva show will also feature new SKYACTIV technology exhibits and the Mazda SHINARI design concept car, among a wide range of products.

Officially titled the 81e Salon International de l'Auto de Gen�ve, the show's press days are March 1 and 2, and the public days are March 3-13, 2011. Mazda will hold a press conference on Tuesday, March 1.

2012 Mazda MX-5 Sports Car Preview

A Mazda insider has said that the next MX-5 will use a revised twin-backbone frame, used in the RX-8, and build up on the RX-8�s viewpoint to take on a �super front-midship four-cylinder layout�. What this means is that the MX-5 engine will be placed behind the front axle for best weight distribution, and mounting the fuel tank and main exhaust in front of the rear axle, so all the vital components stay within the wheelbase.

Mazda at 2010 SEMA Show

Mazda is taking its �zoom zoom� philosophy to a whole new level at the 2010 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show, which is taking place in Las Vegas this week. It features an aerodynamic body kit, an H&R suspension, a roll cage, Sparco seats, and lightweight 15-inch wheels with Hoosier race tires.

The Mazda 2 Street is a bit less adventuresome, with wide-profile Toyo Proxes RA-1 tires mounted on 949Racing 6UL 15-by-9-inch wheels and a light gray metallic paint job with matte graphic accents.

For the Mazda3 Turbo, designers added black exterior accents, tinted windows, and 19-inch forged aluminum wheels. Under the hood, power is provided by a 2.5-liter MZR engine which has been outfitted with a Garrett turbocharger.

Mazda�s iconic roadster also arrives in two souped up versions. The MX-5 Super20 celebrates the 20th anniversary of the droptop sports car. Under the hood lies a supercharged Cosworth engine and the paint scheme is black on gray, both of which give this MX-5 a substantially meaner aura. The other Miata at SEMA is the MX-5 Cup Car, which is a full-on spec racer outfitted with a plethora of racing equipment.

Also on show are two different Mazda3 sedans, as well as the Grand-Am GT Mazda RX-8. The SpeedSource Grand Am GT Mazda RX-8 is based on a tube-frame chassis jointly developed by SpeedSource and Riley Technologies, and powered by Mazda's three-rotor 20B Renesis rotary engine--a significantly more powerful unit than the smaller 13B engine used in the regular RX-8 sports car. �

Source: Mazda




Press Release

Mazda 2010 SEMA

Mazda's product lineup of sedans, sports cars and crossovers offers consumers and exciting choice for their transportation needs; a choice that offers the Soul of a Sports Car in every vehicle. Showcasing the depth and breadth of the brand, Mazda will display a slew of products, each one demonstrating Mazda's aftermarket capability and potential.

"The versatility of Mazda vehicles is extraordinary. With just minor modifications to a stock Mazda, it can be ready for the track or a car show," said Derek Jenkins, director design, MNAO. "Our SEMA cars demonstrate this ability; taking a vehicle from the dealership and making it a truly unique piece."

The newest member to the product lineup is the MAZDA2. With great styling, superb fuel economy and an affordable price tag, the 2011 MAZDA2 subcompact sedan is Zoom-Zoom in its most concentrated form. MAZDA2 is a car that only the engineers at Mazda could have created. It was designed and engineered from scratch to be a pure Mazda, offering the sort of driving experience that could only come from the company that developed the timeless MX-5 two-seat roadster, and it brings a combination of athletic design and dynamic performance to the subcompact class. Mazda Design Americas took two MAZDA2s and created a street car and a track car.

MAZDA Evil Track
The MAZDA2 Evil Track car was envisioned as a fully equipped car for series racing, and all required safety equipment to meet SCCA and NASA competition regulations. This iteration was inspired by the MAZDA2 Evil concept which debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show in 2009. The MAZDA2 Evil Track car has an enhanced motorsport aesthetic achieved through Mazda race-inspired graphics and colors.

MAZDA2 Evil Track car is equipped with a Mazda Design aero body kit, including side skirts, front and rear air-dam and carbon fiber rear deck spoiler. Modifications include H&R race suspension and coil over kit, AWR full custom safety cage, Sparco Circuit pro seat, steering wheel, safety harness and fire system, AIM MXL Pista data acquisition system, race-tuned Magna-flow exhaust, 949 6UL 15x9 lightweight wheels and 225/45/15 Hoosier race tires.

MAZDA2 Street
The Mazda2 Street is a streetwise, urban sport inspired version of the highly successful Mazda2.
This new tougher street version is reinforced visually by using smaller diameter light weight 949 6UL 15x9 wheels and wide profile Toyo Proxes RA-1 R-compound tires. The aesthetic enhanced through the use of a light gray, superfine metallic body color and matte graphic accents.

MX-5 Super20
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the MX-5 has been re-imagined with a darker, edgier attitude in the MX5 Super20. It's a purposeful combination of street-tough style and motorsports-inspired attributes. This third generation vehicle acknowledges the iconic first-gen iteration with modifications such as a supercharged Cosworth engine, small diameter wheels, more substantial tire profile and wider fenders.

A hardtop has replaced the soft-top and the interior stripped down and fitted with a roll-bar lending a GT-inspired look and feel. The seats have suede seat inserts and channel stitching, providing improved grip for the driver. Orange contrast stitching highlights the sporty seat profile as well as providing a polished look throughout, coordinating with the exterior graphic treatment which plays off the black and Storm Gray exterior.

Additional modifications include a DPTune reflashed ECU, Racing Beat 304-stainless steel header and exhaust, ACT organic street clutch, MAZDASPEED coil overs, Racing Beat hollow front and rear anti-roll bars, MAZDASPEED shock tower brace, Power Slot slotted brake rotors, StopTech DOT-compliant stainless steel brake lines and street performance brake pads, SpeedSource front brake ducts, 16x9 Enkei RPF1 wheels wrapped with 245/45-R16 Toyo Proxes RA-1 R-compound tires, 20mm H&R Trak+ hubcentric bolt-on wheel spacers in the rear and 15mm Sparco hubcentric wheel spacers up front.

MAZDA3 Redline Time Attack
The Redline Time Attack Super Modified series is where you see the fastest road racing tuner cars in the country. Full use of carbon/composite body panels, big wings, tires and lots of power are common. The fastest Super Modified class cars can run lap times faster than World Challenge GT cars and are close to surpassing American Le Mans Series GT2 lap times - top speeds at some tracks will surpass 180 mph.

The MAZDA3 Reline Time Attack car is a Super Modified (unlimited rules) class car with more than 500 horsepower at the wheels from a highly modified 2.5-liter turbocharged MZR engine. It features 280/650/18 Yokohama Advan Racing slick tires on 18x10.5 Volk Racing TE-37 wheels.

MAZDA3 Turbo Sedan
A small team of designers and engineers at Mazda R&D in Irvine, Calif., decided to have a little fun with a MAZDA3. The team took its knowledge of the Mazda parts bin and its close relationships with MAZDASPEED Motorsports suppliers, looked in the mirror, and decided to build a tuner car that shows its own vision of the MAZDA3.

The car is painted to mimic the MAZDA3 Time Attack race car, but in a more subdued Crystal White Pearl base coat with soft gray tone graphics. The scheme is a modern twist on the famous Renown graphics used on the Mazda 787B that won Le Mans in 1991. Exterior details, including grille inserts, side mirrors, fog lamp bezels, the roof panel, and the formerly chrome interior of the front lamps are all given a bright black paint treatment. Combined with tinted windows, and dark red taillight lenses, the dark details tighten the car visually, emphasizing the MAZDA3's taught, muscular shape much like a tailored black suit on an athlete. Wheels are forged aluminum 19x8-inch with 225/40-19 Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires straight off the RX-8 R3.

The sedan was sent to Tri-Point Engineering for a boost in power, so they installed a turbo kit utilizing a rugged cast iron turbo manifold feeding a high-efficiency Garrett GT2871R ball bearing turbo. At a mild 10 psi of boost, the 2.5-liter MZR engine is making well over 250 horsepower at the wheels. To handle this extra power, the front brakes were replaced with rotors and calipers from a MAZDASPEED3, while the rear rotors and calipers were sourced from a MAZDA5. Double-adjustable coil-overs from KW Suspension, paired with a Tri-Point adjustable rear stabilizer bar bring the handling back into harmony with the engine's higher output.

Grand-Am GT Mazda RX-8
The SpeedSource Grand Am GT Mazda RX-8 is based on a tube-frame chassis jointly developed by SpeedSource and Riley Technologies, and powered by Mazda's three-rotor 20B Renesis rotary engine. The 20B three-rotor engine is the cornerstone of Mazda's Grand Am GT RX-8 program, and based on the engine used in the RX-8 street car. With its compact size and light weight, the rotary engine brings with it a vast history in sprint and endurance racing. Revving to over 9,000 rpm, the distinctive 20B rotary engine sounds like no other engine on the Grand Am ROLEX GT grid.

The Mazda RX-8 dominated the 2010 Grand-AM GT season winning six of 12 races, and winning the drivers, team, and manufacturers championship.

MX-5 Cup Car
The most road-raced car in the world -- as well as being the best-selling two-seat roadster in the world - the MX-5 Miata is no stranger to the track. The MX-5 Cup is a series that pits similarly modified MX-5s together on the track. The MX-5 Cup car weighs just under 2,600 pounds and features an authoritative 195-horsepower motor. The series was launched in 2006 and has since enjoyed strong fields and close competition.

Engine Modifications: A MAZDASPEED cold air intake system is required.
Chassis Modifications: The only modification is the addition of the 3-piece front strut tower brace that comes with the sport package.

Transmission/Final Drive Modifications: The stock six-speed gearbox is used by all cars.
Suspension/Steering Modifications: The MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development MX-5 Cup kit is comprised of double adjustable shocks, specified springs and threaded-perch coil-overs. All cars also run identical anti-roll bars and end links.

Brake System Modifications: Brakes must maintain stock brake rotor specifications.
Wheels: All cars run their choice of the stock alloy 17x7" wheels available on MX-5 Miatas.
Tires: The series spec tire is the BFGoodrich g-Force R1, size: 225/45/17.
Body Modifications: None
Safety Modifications: All MX-5 Cup cars run with full safety equipment, including an eight-point rollcage that must be welded into the car. Other safety equipment includes a racing seat, head/neck restraint, an electrical shut-off switch and an incorporated fire-extinguishing system.