News
MAZDA AT THE PARIS MOTOR SHOW 2008
The Mazda stand at this year’s Mondial de l’Automobile Paris brims with confidence, as sales continue at record levels in Europe and the popularity of its new-generation cars grows unabated. The Mazda stand reflects this with an eco-friendly concept car, a refreshed version of the Mazda MX-5, a new-generation turbo diesel engine for Mazda6 and updates to Mazda2.
Mazda Kiyora – The Eco-Friendly City Car
Mazda Kiyora is a small, friendly concept car designed to meet the needs of young urbanites and indicates the direction Mazda could take with a car this size in the future – especially in terms of technology. It features components that are being developed at Mazda for use in the near future – like a next-generation 1.3-litre DISI* engine, a new automatic transmission, and a rigid and lightweight bodyshell for very high fuel efficiency and low emissions. Kiyora’s design supports these technologies with aesthetic features that are expressive of the water theme yet highly functional.
The Refreshed Mazda MX-5 – Evolution Focused on Pure Jinba Ittai Enjoyment
Mazda’s roadster takes centre stage at Paris in a refreshed version with updates that will make it even more popular with European sportscar fans. Remaking certain powertrain components allowed engineers to raise the rev limit and to optimise how the engine sounds when accelerating, which makes driving even more fun than before, and a new six-speed transmission is introduced for the first time. The roadster’s front roll centre has been lowered as well, which makes MX-5’s acclaimed one-with-the-car Jinba Ittai handling even stronger than before. And the Roadster Coupe cabin is now quieter and there are new equipment features for the whole line-up.
Mazda6 MZR-CD 2.2 – Next-Generation Diesel for Europe
The new Mazda6 is getting a range-topping new-generation turbo diesel in Europe. A paragon of power and high torque, it is also highly fuel efficient, refined and quiet. It will be offered in three versions producing from 125-185 PS of power, and robust torque ranging from 310-400 Nm, while using between 5.5 and 5.7 litres of fuel per 100 km (CO2: 147 to 152g/km on the combined cycle). With the MZR-CD 2.0-litre common-rail already in the line-up, it will meet the needs of a wide spectrum of customers in Europe.
Mazda2 – New Turbo Diesel & Vehicle Updates
The popular Mazda2 is about to get even more appealing to young, first-time car buyers in Europe. Its engine line-up is now expanded with a range-topping MZ-CD 1.6-litre common-rail diesel that, when combined with Mazda2’s lightweight body and outstanding steering and suspension, means performance and driving fun with low fuel consumption. This engine produces 90 PS of maximum power and 205 Nm of torque at only 2,000 rpm, while using just 4.2 litres of fuel per 100 km (CO2: 112 g/km combined). Several exterior and interior updates are also added to the line-up for more quality feel, including a new Sports Appearance Package, two new exterior colours and silver accents with new trim, seat materials and meters on the inside.
WORLD PREMIERE FOR LEXUS IS 250 CONVERTIBLE AT PARIS MOTOR SHOW
- International debut for IS 250 C at the Mondial de l’Automobile
- LF-Xh hybrid concept car, highlighting a new tonality of L-finesse design
- LS 460 with permanent All-Wheel Drive
Lexus will reveal the new IS 250 Convertible during its press conference at the Paris Motor Show on 2 October.
Following the launch earlier this year of the ultra-high performance IS F, this will be the third derivative in the IS range.
Also on display at Paris will be the LF-Xh hybrid concept vehicle, the new LS 460 AWD with permanent all-wheel drive and a full-line up of Lexus Hybrid Drive models.
Lexus remains the first — and only — premium automotive manufacturer to offer a comprehensive hybrid model range, comprising the RX 400h, the world’s first hybrid SUV; the GS 450h performance hybrid saloon; and the ultra-luxurious LS 600h flagship limousine.
LF-Xh hybrid concept
The Lexus LF-Xh hybrid concept car highlighted the potential for Lexus’s L-finesse design philosophy to be applied to different artistic and creative spheres far beyond the language of car design when it made its European debut at the Museo della Permanente art gallery during Milan Design Week earlier this year.
Now appearing in the more conventional surroundings of an international motor show, the LF-Xh features powerful, highly sculptural bodywork, an elegant, user-intuitive interior and an all-wheel drive Lexus Hybrid Drive system, which combines a powerful V6 petrol engine with high output electric motors. Finished all in black, the LF-Xh has a dynamic presence. Its combination of advanced environmental technology, outstanding driving performance, near-silent operation, excellent fuel efficiency and low emissions perfectly reflects Lexus’s forward-thinking mindset for a future generation of vehicles.
LS 460 AWD
Two years on from the European launch of the fourth generation of Lexus’s flagship saloon, the LS 460’s outstanding performance, sure-footed dynamic abilities and ground-breaking active safety systems have been further strengthened by the addition of permanent all-wheel drive.
The all-wheel drive system has a three-differential configuration, with a highly compact Type C TORSEN® Limited Slip Differential (LSD) that distributes drive power between the front and rear axles with a 40:60 rear axle torque bias. The highly responsive torque distribution is continuously controlled and optimised according to driving conditions, and can be varied between a 50:50 to 30:70 split between front and rear axles. This enhances the vehicle’s grip, traction and cornering stability under acceleration to class-leading levels.
MAZDA DEALER HELPS SAVE LIVES
RRG Mazda are urging drivers to slow down for National Road Safety Week. The Manchester and Stockport based Mazda dealerships are throwing their weight behind the annual event, which aims to highlight the need for safer driving to cut the number of deaths and injuries caused on the nation’s roads.
National Road Safety Week is organised by the road safety charity Brake and will be held from 10 -16 November 2008. All proceeds raised will be used to support families bereaved by road crashes.
“Mazda is committed to road safety and we hope that by taking part in this important initiative we can help prevent road crashes and save lives,” explained Kevin Shepley dealer principal at RRG Mazda Stockport. “Every year hundreds of people are killed or seriously injured by careless drivers but many of these accidents can be avoided by drivers simply slowing down and being more considerate of other road users and pedestrians.RRG Mazda wants to help ensure that Stockport and Manchester are safe places.”
The theme of this year’s event is ‘'Family Safety –– Protect the Ones you Love'.
“We hope everyone will support us in our attempt to make our community a safer place,” added Kevin Shepley.
To find out more about the Mazda range or to arrange a test-drive, please call RRG Mazda Manchester on 0845 126 7161 or visit the showroom at Bury New Road, Manchester or our Stockport branch on 0845 126 7101 or at Rooth Street Stockport.
MAZDA MX-5 WINS ‘BEST ROADSTER’ USED CAR AWARD
• After almost 20 years, MX-5 still claims top-spot for global popularity
• MX-5 and RX-8 sales make Mazda Britain’s favourite sportscar brand
A legend in its own lifetime, the iconic Mazda MX-5 roadster continues to deliver pure motoring thrills – as a new or used car – almost 20 years since its debut. This week, MX-5 has overcome the challenge of numerous short-listed rivals to win its class in the ‘2008 Auto Express Used Car Honours’ in the popular weekly publication’s annual awards. This latest success for the Mazda MX-5 follows last month’s triumph, when Mazda’s sportscar won ‘Best Convertible’ in the 2008 Auto Express New Car Honours.
For the latest issue of Auto Express, an experienced panel of six judges, who know the used car market inside out, scrutinised the merits of the dozens of cars in 16 different categories. After much deliberation, the Mazda MX-5 two-seater emerged as the clear winner of the ‘Best Roadster’ – beating the significantly more expensive Porsche Boxster and Audi TT into the runners-up places.
Commenting on the Mazda MX-5’s victory, Auto Express stated: “In 1989, Mazda took everything that made the British Lotus Elan great, then added superb reliability and a low price to the package. Not only is the MX-5 the world's best-selling sportscar, it has also won over us loyal Brits. It’s poised to knock the classic MGB off the top spot for both popularity and parts supply in the UK. The problem our judges faced come ‘decision time’ was choosing between the current and previous generations of the MX-5 – the Mazda is a fantastic choice and a thrilling drive.
Highlighting the dilemma facing members of the judging panel, British Car Auctions general manager Ashley Feldman said: "My first thoughts were in favour of the present-shape MX-5 as it's more desirable. But it is simply impossible to ignore the availability and value of the older model. Both versions will fend off most sportscar rivals in every way, so we can recommend them as a pair."
Accepting the latest award for Mazda UK, Marketing Director Mark Cameron commented: “In the UK, the iconic two-seater, rear-wheel drive Mazda MX-5 sportscar continues to be hugely popular with both the public and media. It delivers on the promise of thrilling open-air motoring, with everyday reliability and modest running costs. Since its launch in the UK in 1990 we have sold more than 90,000 MX-5s so there is broad selection of used models available through our ‘Zoom-Zoom Plus’ approved used car programme and of course through other outlets nationwide.
“The MX-5 soft-top can be opened and closed in just a few seconds, using only one hand and without getting out of the car. The Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe features the world’s fastest-folding hard-top – up or down in just 12 seconds. And by a miracle of packaging ingenuity, this roof retracts into a compact space behind the seats so the boot space maintains its 150-litre volume as before – a unique innovation among modern sports cars,” concludes Cameron.
Competitive ownership costs
Thanks to the excellent levels of security, including Thatcham category 1 alarm and immobiliser (standard on all models), together with the modest overall costs of crash repair, the insurance groups for both the Mazda MX-5 soft-top and Roadster Coupe are highly competitive, ranging from 11E to 13E.
Improved residual values are also apparent. The indicative three-year/60,000 mile residual values from used car experts CAP Motor Research predict the Mazda MX-5 will retain between 43 per cent of its value (2.0i Sport) and 47 per cent (1.8i base model) at disposal time – making it an unbeatable ownership proposition.
Mazda Kiyora concept to make its global debut in Paris
- Mazda Kiyora is a lightweight, next generation, urban compact concept car Mazda
- MX-5 facelift, Mazda6 with an all-new MZR-CD 2.2 turbo diesel engine and Mazda2 with MZ-CD 1.6 turbo diesel engine also to be exhibited
- Mazda Press Conference to take place Thursday, 2 October, at 12:15 (local time)
Mazda Kiyora, a lightweight, next generation, urban compact concept car, will be revealed at the 2008 Paris International Motor Show to be held from Thursday, 2 October until Sunday, 19 October 2008.
Mazda Kiyora (meaning ‘clean and pure’ in Japanese) represents the harmony between driving pleasure and environmental and safety features in line with Mazda’s long-term technology development vision, “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom”.
The concept of “Kiyora” helped the designers to imagine a city car cutting cleanly through an urban landscape, with water as the design theme. Equipped with Mazda’s next generation 4 cylinder direct injection engine and featuring the company’s unique Smart Idle Stop System, the car achieves excellent fuel economy and low CO2 emissions. The improved aerodynamic performance of Nagare design also contributes to these factors.
The new Mazda concept car is based on an all-new platform designed to maximise weight reduction and a high level of safety, in pursuit of enhanced driving pleasure. It also features an interior design and new functions that support a youthful lifestyle.
Joining the Mazda Kiyora concept car on Mazda’s stand at the Paris show, the Mazda MX-5 facelift will make its world debut, together with the Mazda6 equipped with Mazda’s newly developed MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine, and the Mazda2 powered by a MZ-CD 1.6‑litre diesel.
Officially titled the Mondial de l’Automobile, the Paris motor show press days are Thursday 2 October and Friday 3 October. Public days run from Saturday 4 October to Sunday 19 October 2008.
Mazda will hold its press conference on Thursday 2 October at 12:15 (local time).
New Toyota Avensis to debut at Paris Motor Show!
Toyota will unveil the third generation Avensis, its European flagship model at the 2008 Paris Motor show, from the 4th to the 19th of October.
The all new Avensis will project an athletic and sleek design, giving a strong and dynamic character to the car.
Featuring more powerful and cleaner engines that emit less CO2 improved quality and enhanced equipment levels, the all new Avensis is set to push the boundaries of the D-segment in Europe.
Taking centre stage the Toyota Avensis has a sleek design that reflects the car’s strong and dynamic character.
The new Avensis is the third generation of the model to be built at the Burnaston plant in Derbyshire.
Due to go on sale in January 2009 it features engines that are both more powerful and emit less CO2, a crucial factor in today’s new car market, and it retains the high quality, refinement and equipment levels that are an established Avensis hallmark.
Mazda announces latest Technology Developments
· New innovations that will realise Mazda’s ‘Sustainable Zoom-Zoom’ strategy
· Lower fuel consumption using the Mazda Smart Idle Stop System (SISS)
· Clean, new-generation 2.2-litre turbo diesel that is quiet and powerful
· Mazda’s Lightweight Strategy benefits from new plastic moulding technology
Leverkusen, 9th September 2008.
Mazda Motor Corporation recently announced a commitment to reduce the fuel economy of Mazda vehicles sold globally by an average of 30 per cent by 2015 as part of its overall Sustainable Zoom-Zoom strategy. As part of this strategic direction Mazda now presents three all-new technological developments near completion in Japan.
Up to 9 Percent improvement in Fuel Consumption with the Mazda Smart Idle Stop System (SISS)
The Mazda SISS automatically stops the engine of the car, then automatically starts it again using direct-injection helped by a starter motor action. In order to achieve this, both the compression-stroke and expansion-stroke pistons are stopped at exactly the correct position to ensure the right balance of air volume in each cylinder.
Mazda’s system is unique, and a global first, as it begins indexing the pistons before the engine starts up again, unlike standard systems that do this after an electric motor starts turning over the engine. Thanks to this innovation, Mazda’s SISS starts about twice as fast as competitor systems and delivers a smoother restart and fuel savings. The SISS system will be introduced to the EU market in the first half of next year.
Cleaner MZR-CD 2.2-litre Turbo Diesel with more Power and Torque
A central product of the ‘Sustainable Zoom-Zoom’ strategy will be introduced in Europe early next year. With its new-generation 2.2-litre common-rail turbo diesel, Mazda launches a clean, fuel-efficient and powerful engine. 185 PS of power and 400 Nm of torque make it one of segment’s liveliest diesels. To enhance overall fuel efficiency, the engine employs innovative new technologies including ultra high pressure fuel injectors and a lower compression ratio.
In addition, the Mazda‑developed diesel particulate filter has the world’s first catalyst activation mechanism that removes particulate matter from the exhaust gases more efficiently. The ceramic base material in Mazda’s unique catalyst has a molecular structure that increases the rate of particulate matter combustion and enhances the DPF regeneration speed.
Innovative Plastic Moulding Technology – reduces vehicle plastics weight and consumption of plastic resins by 20 to 30 percent
Mazda’s lightweight strategy is now taken even further with a new plastic moulding technology that reduces the weight of plastic parts in Mazda vehicles without compromising strength or rigidity. The moulding manufacturing technique not only reduces weight but also cuts the consumption of oil-based resins used as raw materials by approximately 20 to 30 percent, with associated cuts in the volume of CO2 emissions. This plastic moulding technology can potentially be applied to nearly all plastic parts used in vehicles.
This new technology builds on Mazda’s renowned lightweight strategy that has resulted in the new Mazda2 and Mazda6 being lighter and more fuel-efficient than their predecessors, in contrast to an industry trend towards ever-larger and heavier cars.
Second coming for supermini seals Mazda comeback
1 September 2008, Motor Trader (p.15)
Motor Trader’s James Dallas test drives the Mazda2 1.3 TS2 3dr, claiming that since its launch in September 2007, the new Mazda2 has ‘surpassed expectations’ and could be seen as the culmination of the renewal of the brand.
Dallas points out that in these financial straitened and environmentally concerned times, the decision to go against the trend for larger and heavier new generation models by employing its weight saving ‘gram strategy’ to the new Mazda2, now seems ‘cannier than ever’.
Dallas describes the Mazda2 3dr as a ‘sporty, sleek and good looking car’ that is ‘agile and responsive’ with ‘quick gear shifts’ about town and also ‘holds its own’ on the motorway. The interior also comes in for praise, described as ‘well balanced and user-friendly’. “The Mazda2 has already broken new ground for the brand in its first year on the new car market and looks set to build upon this success in the used sector as customers increasingly opt to downsize.”
Toyota IQ and Urban Cruiser revealed!
First unveiled at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show, Toyota showed off (at the British International Motor Show 2008) its iQ concept which is due to be launched at the end of 2008 and hit showrooms early next year. The spacious little hatch is aimed at families that want the green credentials of a small car along with a healthy amount of practicality and bags of room inside. Toyota claims that it will comfortably seat three adults and one child. Along with the iQ, Toyota will also launch the Urban Cruiser – a small SUV that will emit less than 140g/km of CO2. Toyota's stars of the show attracted a lot of attention, with the iQ proving to be a real hit. As a result there have been a significant number of pre-orders for the iQ which will be available from January 09. The all-new pair will join a further 16 models that the Japanese manufacturer plans to launch next year – most of which are revisions of exisiting models and will include the Prius and Avensis.
Peugeot Reveals Details of New 308 CC
It’s now over seven years since Peugeot introduced it’s best known coupé cabriolet, the 206 CC, which then evolved in 2003 into the 307 CC and then, in 2007, into the UK’s current best selling open top car, the 207CC. This successful concept will shortly evolve again with the introduction of the Peugeot 308 CC.
The 308 CC, with its four full-size seats, capitalises on all the inbuilt strengths of the 308 range whilst still embodying the “307 CC spirit” and Peugeot’s coupé-cabriolet expertise. Above all, it promises enthusiasts of “lifestyle” motoring a unique and genuinely attractive offer.
An attractive design…
The 308 CC stands out due to its elegant and stylish design, both in its coupé and cabriolet configurations. A low sporty profile confirms the dynamic potential of the 308 CC and the prominent shape and spectacular LED rear lights create a unique signature for the car by day and by night.
The passenger compartment has an undeniable personality. Particularly striking in the “cabriolet” version, it has a different feel from the hatchback and creates the impression of a grand touring car.
The deeply sculpted and supportive front seats, with their integral head restraints, have an inbuilt air vent which diffuses warm air around the occupant’s neck. The rear seats also mirror this distinctive design and offer rear accommodation that is surprisingly generous for a cabriolet.
The 308 CC will be available with both simple and an “integral leather” interior trim. The entire passenger compartment is now also trimmed in leather, which is unusual in this segment.
Key Features
The Peugeot 308 CC will see for the first time on a Peugeot coupé cabriolet the introduction of a warm air heating system built into the front seats. This “Airwave” system acts like a scarf by diffusing warm air adjustable for temperature, flow and direction around the occupant’s shoulders / neck.
Other new features will also be introduced including:
The 308 CC is also a car that can be used on a daily basis due to its usable boot which includes a number of dedicated storage spaces (including one under the boot carpet designed to hold the optional wind stop). It has a capacity of 465 litres or 266 litres with the roof folded.
Finally, to make any journey as pleasant as possible, the 308 CC will benefit from a comprehensive range of Peugeot’s latest in-car-communication systems, including a JBL Hi-fi option with ten speakers offering a made-to-measure sound experience.
The new Peugeot 308 CC will be revealed at this year’s Paris Motor Show in September.
TOP SECRET! Peugeot's new hybrid concept car.
Though we can’t tell you its name, we can reveal that Peugeot’s new hybrid concept car will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in October!
Which means you only have a few weeks until we announce the full details of our top secret concept car.
In the meantime, here are a few facts about the RC… (that’s all we’re giving away!) The ‘RC…’ is an accessible and versatile car, with four doors, four seats and four wheels driven by a highly innovative hybrid architecture.
It is a ‘GT’ coupe – a combination of many future ideas and brings together numerous stylistic, engineering and technological ideas all in a single vehicle.
Its aim is a very high level of efficiency both in terms of performance (with its potential maximum power output of 313 bhp) and minimal impact on the environment (CO2 emissions of 109 g/km in the combined cycle or ZERO in electric mode).
Intrigued? The Paris Motor Show will take place between 4th-19th October. Stay tuned and we’ll let you know more very soon…
Mazda wins "Best Convertible" award 2008
- Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe wins 'Best Convertible' award in Auto Express New Car Honours
- From £18,600 Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe has the world's fastest folding powered hard top
- Third Auto Express win-in-a-row for the Mazda's worldwide best-selling two-seater roadster
Mazda's range of 'Zoom-Zoom' vehicles continue to impress automotive experts, with the iconic Mazda MX-5 roadster selected for critical acclaim in the 2008 Auto Express New Car Honours, announced in the weekly magazine
Presenting the Mazda MX-5 with a class-topping annual award for the third successive year, the judges from the UK’s best-selling weekly automotive magazine ranked the Roadster Coupe version of the two-seater, rear-wheel drive sports car as ‘Best Convertible’.
In praising the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe, Auto Express commented: “The world’s top selling roadster just gets better and better! And is it any surprise? In the new MX-5 RC, Mazda has created a car with all the appeal of the original, plus the added benefit of a folding hard-top... British convertible fans have never faced summer with such confidence!”
Collecting the ‘Best Convertible’ award at a glittering ceremony in London, Mazda UK's Managing Director Rob Lindley commented: “It is immensely satisfying to have a high profile motoring consumer publication, such as Auto Express, confirm that our products are among the very best on the market."
"As Britain’s favourite sports car brand, Mazda is proud to top the sales charts with the Mazda MX-5 and Mazda RX-8 capturing a 20 per cent market share. Our designers and engineers aim to embody the heart of a sports car in all our products giving them responsive dynamics for a rewarding drive. The new Mazda6 is proving immensely popular and our new Mazda2 supermini, with its lighter weight, increased agility and new three-door body style, has already captured the prestigious ‘2008 World Car of the Year’ crown,” added Lindley.
Hear about it first
Receive offers and latest news in our monthly newsletter
