Mazda 3, 2010

Mazda 3, 2010

 

 

 

 

The Exterior design - expressive and emotional styling
A distinctive new front fascia is formed by the 5-point grille and openings at the front corners. These design cues combine with the sculpted shape of the hood and the bold, expressive lines that connect the hood to the front pillars. All the lines seem to flow into the center just below the 5-point grille, which creates a stronger expression of power and dynamism. From the side, the front fender line smoothly morphs into the beltline, clearly identifying the vehicle as a Mazda and communicating dynamism. The line of the side sill curves up and seems to connect with the rear spoiler to emphasize the vehicle's compact size and express its agility. In order to make the surface more expressive, Mazda designers slightly elaborated the depth of the hood edge, front fenders and the three-dimensional shape of the protruding body sides, carefully crafting curves that subtly reflect changes in natural light.

The rear view boasts a sporty design with wide stance. The strongest features are the protruding shoulders and emphasized center-focus design. This concept was carried over from the first generation Mazda 3 and made bolder to represent expressiveness. All the lines of the rear view are designed to concentrate on the brand symbol in the center. The impressive C-pillar design was also inherited from the first-generation Mazda 3 and made more prominent. This was made possible by Mazda's expertise in stamping technology.

The Interior design : sophisticated, sporty, and high quality
The inside of Mazda 3 is a sporty yet highly refined cabin. The dashboard sweeps out from the center toward both sides with dynamic flair as though it is flexing powerful muscles. The large center display and controls are laid out around the driver to deliver just the right feeling of snugness. The angle of the center panel was adjusted after careful analysis of the driver's hand movement, producing a more stylish and dynamic design. A soft, wood grained surface with minimized parting lines on the top of the dashboard enhances the interior quality. The new interactive lighting control enhances the driver's connection with the vehicle.

The Powertrains for all driving experiences
The powertrains combine Mazda's typical Zoom-Zoom driving experience with excellent environmental performance to provide exhilarating driving. They transmit just the right amount of G force that perfectly matches the vehicle's actual acceleration. This provides the driver with a more refined experience of oneness with the car. The new engine line up has been tailored for European customers and now includes the newly developed MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine, carried over from the all-new Mazda 6, in addition to the MZR-1.6-litre and 2.0-litre gasoline engines and the MZ-CD 1.6-litre turbo diesel. It is a high-performance clean diesel engine with top class output, fuel economy and quietness. The MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine will be offered in two variants: a high power version with a maximum torque of 400 Nm/1,800-3,000 rpm and a maximum output of 136 kW (185 PS)/3500 rpm, and a standard power version with a maximum torque of 360 Nm/1,800-2,600 rpm and a maximum output of 110 kW (150 PS)/3500 rpm. Both versions have outstanding clean emissions performance, comply with the Euro Stage 5 regulations and feature a Mazda developed unique Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) technology for more efficient regeneration. Fuel economy is also greatly improved by 7 to 10 percent compared to the MZR-CD 2.0-litre engine equipped in the existing model, attaining 5.4 l/100 km for the standard power version and 5.6 l/100 km for the high power version.

The MZR 2.0-litre petrol engine underfloor catalyst is the world's first vehicle catalyst to be constructed with single nanotechnology, which controls even finer materials structures than nanotechnology. It is used to embed individual particles of precious metals, which are less than 5 nanometers in diameter, into the catalyst base material. This new development enables Mazda to reduce the amount of expensive precious metals such as platinum and palladium by 70 to 90 percent without impairing catalyst performance. The catalyst is an important part of Mazda's efforts to reduce reliance on limited resources.

Power steering, suspension and brake systems
To deliver just the right balance between fuel economy, light steering-wheel operation and a feeling of stability, all configurations of the all-new Madza3 are equipped with the Electro-Hydraulic Power Assist Steering system (EHPAS) that has earned high acclaim on the first generation Mazda 3. The suspension is based on the first generation Mazda 3 system, and has been enhanced to ensure even nimbler response to steering wheel operation, and also to improve roll control and maintain a flatter ride by strengthening the suspension damping. In the brake system, the vacuum booster has been tuned and the feeling of initial brake application has been optimized. The overall result is outstanding response and reassuring linearity under all braking conditions.

The Highly rigid body
The basic development concept for the body shell of the all-new Mazda 3 was to improve the overall balance of the body's rigidity and ensure it firmly absorbs the reaction force of the dampers. To this end, particular attention went to reinforcing the area around the front and rear suspension mounts and the joint sections in each corner, which are subject to greater stress. Structural adhesive was used to strengthen the joints for the front and rear suspension towers, and spot welding was added to reinforce the joints of the door openings. The result is a substantial improvement in rigidity and body hysteresis (the degree of car body deformation due to repeated applications of torsional load).

Class-leading aerodynamics
The drag coefficient for the European specification 5-door hatchback and 4-door sedan are respectively 0.30 and 0.28, amongst of the bests in the segment. These measures helped the engineers attain top-class levels for wind noise reduction, high speed stability and fuel economy.

Cabin environment - sense of oneness between car and driver
Aboard the all-new Mazda 3 is a new Human Machine Interface that contributes to the sense of oneness between the car and driver. The cabin interior is designed to allow the driver to concentrate on driving and also appreciate the level of quality in both design and the materials used.

A sporty cockpit that improves functional beauty
The new "zone layout" approach focuses on improving visibility and more intuitive controls which provide "a sense of the car and driver as one" and "a reassuring sense of confidence that frees the driver to concentrate on driving." First, the Mazda 3 development team integrated the information display and positioned it towards the front in the optimal "zone." This placed the information necessary while driving where it can be seen with the least amount of eye movement. Next, the engineers placed all the controls and switches within a single "zone" closer to the driver's hands. Designing the cockpit with controls and information display in separate zones frees the driver to concentrate on driving.

The Multi information display (MID)
Based on the concept of the zone layout, Mazda developed the Multi Information Display (MID). It clearly shows information on all the equipment needed while driving, such as the trip computer, audio system and compact GPS system (optional), which can be operated easily by switches mounted on the steering wheel.

Seats that fit better, provide greater support and are more functional
The raised sides on the front of the seat cushions were made 20mm larger than on the first generation Mazda 3 to increase the leg support for a better fit. The seat backs were also extended by 35mm, which better supports the occupant's posture. Seat position adjustment controls were also evolved. The new power seat has a 3-position memory function. Upon approach to the car, the left-front seat automatically adjusts to the settings chosen by up to 3 different drivers by recognizing the code of the key fob. High-grade models feature standard sports seats.

Substantially reduced road and wind noise
Many improvements were made to structural rigidity and powertrain NVH performance to provide a quieter, more pleasant ride, including the reduction of high frequency booming noise sometimes heard when decelerating while further evolving a sporty engine note. Increasing the rigidity of components and joints also helped to deliver a quieter ride that rates among the class leaders. The sound pressure level of road noise was curtailed by 6 to 11 percent over the previous model, and wind noise was reduced by approximately 6 percent, to 59.0 dB at 100 km/h with a 5 m/s crosswind, placing the all-new Mazda 3 among the quietest in the class.

The Safety
Mazda focused on enhancing active safety equipment that supports the recognition and avoidance of hazards. Specifically, the cutting edge active safety technologies featured on the all-new Mazda 3 include ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Emergency Stop Signaling system(ESS) as standard equipments, and bi-xenon headlights with a pivoting adaptive front lighting system (option). New features include the Rear Vehicle Monitoring system (RVM), Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Heated Wind Shield (option). The new model's passive safety systems are comprehensive and include Mazda proprietary highly-rigid and safe vehicle body technology, the Mazda Advanced Impact-energy Distribution and Absorption System, as well as front seat active headrests and a complement of six airbags, placing the all-new Mazda 3 at the level of the top marks in collision safety testing around the world.

Mazda RX-8, 2009

Mazda RX-8, 2009

Launched in 2003, the Mazda RX-8 hit the global market with a serious bang. The RX-8 has won more than 50 global awards since its release including 2003 RJC Car of the Year in Japan Australia's Wheels magazine's Car of the Year for 2003, 2003 International Engine of the Year, 2004 Singapore Car of the Year, the 2004 U.S. Best Sports Car and UK Car of the Year 2004. It was also named on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 2004, 2005, and 2006. All together, Mazda has sold nearly 167,000 RX-8s around the world.

STYLING INNOVATION - REFRESHED DESIGN CUES PROVIDE "HIGHQUALITY" DYNAMISM

Mazda RX-8 was designed with an athletically sculpted exterior that provides a sense of originality that's unrivaled in the marketplace today. The new Mazda RX-8 receives design enhancements that are meant to freshen the styling and give Mazda RX-8 a new look, without impairing the basic design theme. Refinements for the new Mazda RX-8 include restyled front and rear bumpers and front fascia; sporty, high quality finish front and rear headlamps; and larger exhaust pipes (now measuring 90 mm across). The new Mazda RX-8 also offers a new five-spoke wheel design featuring a symbolic and sporty design reminiscent of the rotary engine, with different arrangements for each wheel size.

Taut muscular lines give Mazda RX-8 the liberating look of an athlete in motion. The muscular styling maintains classic sports car proportions while adding a Zoom-Zoom edge that is unmistakably Mazda.

The RX-8's unique "freestyle" four-door design is proof that a true sports car does not need to sacrifice space or convenience for performance. The advanced design of the rear-hinged rear doors provides a large door opening, allowing adult-sized passengers to easily enter and exit the vehicle. This design is also advantageous when securing a baby or a small child in the back seat. With a spacious rear seat area providing ample passenger room for four full-size adults, and enough trunk space for a weekend's worth of luggage, this sports car proves its versatility.

The Mazda RX-8's exterior styling presents a genuine sports car form, while the interior boasts a comfortable and intelligently designed cabin. Minor enhancements were made for the new Mazda RX-8 to provide a simple and functional interior design that supports driving pleasure. The center IP shape was redesigned to give a feeling of dynamic movement, a variable red-zone was added to the tachometer that will rise as the engine comes to operating temperature and a new steering wheel and redesigned front and rear seats are also added.

The rotary design element is incorporated through the interior of the Mazda RX-8 in creative ways, appearing in the seats. The stylish cabin also evokes a sense of luxury and high-end quality. Mazda's design team examined every aspect and component of the interior and has created an elegant, driver-centric atmosphere. Through the use of advanced ergonomic research, Mazda engineers determined that improper seating posture is a major cause of driver fatigue and built in optimum support in the front seats to help offset discomfort. In addition, the color of the Mazda RX-8's instrument cluster was developed to reduce eye fatigue and strain.

PERFORMANCE INNOVATION - MORE SPORTS CAR DRIVING PLEASURE

Through-and-through, the Mazda RX-8 is a pure sports car that gives the driver an exciting and dynamic experience. For the new Mazda RX-8, engineers improved body rigidity through the addition of structural reinforcements, by adding a trapezoidal strut tower bar and enhancing the local rigidity of the front suspension tower areas. Also, the rear suspension geometry has been reconfigured for better handling performance and driveshaft rigidity is improved, lowering NVH levels and improving performance.

In addition, the differential gear ratio on manual transmission-equipped cars is lowered from 4.444 to 4.777 for improved off-the-line performance. While minimal, these performance changes give Mazda RX-8 increased acceleration and performance, as well as even greater responsiveness to the accelerator pedal - always a rotary-engine and Mazda RX-8 hallmark.

To achieve this sophisticated dynamic, Mazda utilizes the advanced RENESIS (Rotary Engine genesis - or rebirth of the rotary engine) engine. The Mazda RX-8 remains the only mass-produced rotary-powered passenger car in the world. While exhibiting unusually high power output for a naturally aspirated engine, RENESIS outstrips comparable reciprocating engines in terms of acceleration, the feeling of power in reserve and quick response.

By turning a triangular rotor in a cocoon-shaped combustion chamber, the Mazda RX-8's rotary engine efficiently performs the four processes of intake, compression, combustion and exhaust. The RENESIS engine is remarkably smooth and high revving — all the way to 9,000 rpm (7,500 rpm on Sport A/T-equipped models) — and offers a smaller engine footprint than traditional internal combustion engines (some 60 percent smaller and lighter than a comparably powered V-6, and 40 percent smaller and lighter than a four-cylinder). In fact, the packaging and styling that define the Mazda RX-8 would not have been possible had Mazda engineers chosen a conventional piston engine.

Improving upon 40 years of rotary designs, the RENESIS engine features side intake and exhaust ports with nearly 30 percent more intake port and twice as much exhaust port than its predecessors. The efficiencies gained through shortening intake/exhaust overlapping period and using the larger intake and exhaust ports in delivering world-class performance.

The Mazda RX-8's normally aspirated 1.3-liter engine might appear diminutive to the untrained eye when compared to large-displacement V-8s or heavyweight V-10s or V-12s. However, through the incredible efficiencies of a rotary powerplant, an advanced three-stage intake system and an electronic throttle, the RENESIS engine delivers smooth, linear power on a grand scale.

The Mazda RX-8 uses an aluminum double-wishbone front suspension, reducing unsprung weight over the use of steel components. By mounting the upper and lower arms on a highly rigid sub-frame, the long arms ensure linear alignment changes throughout the jounce and rebound of the front wheels. All corners are fitted with mono-tube gas-filled shock absorbers designed with large-diameter internal pistons and valving, which offer excellent road feedback and a smooth ride.

Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept, 2009

Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept, 2009

 

 

The Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept is an answer to the world of automobiles and individual mobility moving towards energy efficiency, environmental compatibility and uncompromised safety - along with dynamic attributes and driving fun. In its efforts to offer pure driving enjoyment, while meeting its ecological and social responsibilities, Mazda has been focusing on weight reduction as a core base technology. For 20 years, reducing weight has been a tradition with the Mazda MX-5. It provided the inspiration for the radical design of Mazda's latest show car and its radical interpretation of the cult roadster.

Exterior Design
The Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept was to strengthen these bonds even further. By doing this without a windshield, the retractable top and its frame, designers achieved an important step in this direction. As the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept, the allweather production roadster has mutated into a driving machine that lets sports car enthusiasts enjoy the natural surroundings unfiltered and tangible. Not only does the wind blow unimpeded during driving, pilot and co-pilot can also experience the sounds, smells and temperature changes of their immediate surroundings. And finally, the show car's intense bond between the driver and the technology of the vehicle gives it a unique closeness that can only be found in stronger form in the cockpit of a race car.

The Mazda designers created special roll-over bars, not only because they are very sporty-looking, but also to contribute to aerodynamic efficiency. These also make it clear that roll-over protection is important in this concept. And they prevent wind turbulence around the heads of the passengers, from whom the law would require the wearing of helmets while driving.

By removing equipment not vital to driving, and by replacing vital things with components that support the unique concept of the vehicle, designers sharpened the character of the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept.

Cause there is no windshield, for instance, there is obviously no need for wipers. The roadster show car's completely open design makes the need for outer door handles, side windows and their openers unnecessary. A single, filigree aluminium, wide-angle mirror gives a good view of the road behind. It's placed inside an extension of the bonnet. Front and rear lights are the same as those of the production model with additional LED lamps at the front, and brake lights at the back of each roll-over bar, which contribute to the roadster's sporty look.

The lack of a windshield required an extension of the original aluminium bonnet into the cabin. The attached sheet here is made of lightweight carbon fibre and provides a hood for the dashboard frame.

This also changed the proportions of the body's design, making the front of the car longer and the passengers seem like they are sitting further back towards the rear-drive axle, all of which is enhanced by the massive roll-over bars and their aerodynamic cladding. The Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept translates the dramatic proportions of historical race cars into a very modern form.

Interior Design
The purity in design of the exterior also characterizes the interior design, which does not have aesthetics as ultimate goal, but was conceived to contribute to reducing vehicle weight. Driver and passenger of the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept are greeted by racing bucket seats made of ultra-lightweight carbon fibre. They are slide adjustable and upholstered with the same saddle coloured leather as the armrests, the steering wheel, and the lightweight aluminium shift lever and hand brake. Colour-coordinated four-point seatbelts hold the driver and passenger firmly in their seats.

The bonnet extension into the passenger cell provides a canopy for the dashboard, which makes the dashboard look smaller than the production Mazda MX-5. Made of lightweight plastic reinforced with fibreglass, it contains the same instruments as the production Mazda MX-5. These are held in place by a dashboard frame made of lightweight carbon fibre. Like a purebred race car, the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept has an ignition button in the centre of the dashboard, along with two emergency kill buttons for immediate fuel and electricity cut-off.

Supplying air and climate control to the open passenger compartment is only possible in limited form, so the show car has no air conditioning and no fans. Air-flow is increased when the roadster accelerates, and only small air vents are needed. The interior is made without any trim. Sound insulation mats and rugs do not meet the requirements of a purist roadster like this and are not used at all.

Mazda MX-5, 2009

Mazda MX-5, 2009

The Exterior Design: A Fusion of New Mazda Elements and an Unmistakable MX-5 Look
The front grille has been enlarged and changed from an oval shape to the five-point grille that forms part of the well-known Mazda family face. Combined with tautly styled headlights and lowing fog- lamp bezels, the new grille creates a reined and athletic expression.
The five points of the grille are slightly rounded the new shape of the front bumper, with corners that extend downwards, enhances the dynamic look and improves the aerodynamics.
The rear bumper has a new design that makes the rear look wider, sportier, and more integrated into the body. The rear combination lamps inherit the traditional MX-5 elliptical motif, and protrude further outboard for greater aerodynamic efficiency.

The Roadster Coupe's more Upscale Identity
The Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe, which features a groundbreaking powered roof system, also incorporates several design changes that further emphasize its more upscale identity and distinguish it from the soft-top version.
    * Front grille: Whereas the soft-top version has a in-type grille, the Roadster Coupe has a mesh grille that is framed by a chrome ring.
    * Headlamp inner bezels: The headlamp inner bezels are painted silver on the soft-top version, but have a chrome finish on the Roadster Coupe.
    * Fog-lamp inner bezels: The fog lamp inner bezels are black on the soft-top version, but are painted silver on the Roadster Coupe.
    * Outer door handles: The outer door handles are body-coloured on the soft-top version, but have a chrome finish on the Roadster Coupe.
    * High-mounted stop lamp: The high-mounted stop lamp has a red lens on the soft-top version, but a clear lens on the Roadster Coupe.

The New Wheel Designs
The MX-5 is available with 16-inch and 17-inch aluminium wheels. The 16-inch wheels have five sets of twin spokes for a lightweight look. The 17-inch wheels have 10 twisted spokes for a stronger impression of power and dynamism.

The Interior Design: Higher Than Ever Quality and Driver- Friendliness
The interior design delivers the Mazda MX-5's traditional combination of comfortable snugness below shoulder level and openness above shoulder level. It also reflects customer feedback in the form of enhanced quality and driver-friendly features.
The decorative surfaces on the instrument panel have been changed from glossy piano black to dark silver, which has a subtler, higher- quality look befitting a sports car. The meters have new graphics for higher legibility. The climate-control dials on the centre stack have each been given a silver-coloured ring for a higher-quality look. A protrusion has been eliminated from the outer surface of each door pocket to create more leg space. And the door and centre-console armrests have each been given a soft pad for a better feel.
Recaro seats designed exclusively for the MX-5 are available in certain regions. They are upholstered in leather and perforated Alcantara for a sporty look, and they combine excellent support with easy ingress and egress.

Evolved Jinba Ittai for Enhanced Fun-To-Drive
The Jinba Ittai feeling on which Mazda has always focused with the Mazda MX-5 defines the kind of spontaneous car-and-driver interaction that anyone can experience whether they're driving the MX-5 in town, on twisty roads, or on an open highway. With the latest facelift, Mazda engineers evolved the attributes in the "driving", "cornering", "braking", and "listening" categories in the fishbone chart to realize performance that lets drivers enjoy the feeling of oneness with the car to an even greater degree.

A 500 rpm Higher Rev Limit Maximizes Engine Potential for Greater Enjoyment
The powertrain has been enhanced to enable the driver to enjoy the full potential of the engine's performance (a key "fun to drive" aspect of the MX-5). Specifically, the speed at which the engine delivers maximum power has been raised from 6,700 rpm to 7,000 rpm (2.0-litre M/T version) and the rev limit has been raised from 7,000 rpm to 7,500 rpm (all 2.0-litre versions). Without these enhancements, the engine feels smooth and linear right up to the rev limit, even with the throttle wide open. With them, however, the driver can really experience the sensation of extracting every single horsepower out of the engine (the enhancements described here apply to the 2.0-litre grades with a manual transmission). The crucial 500 rpm increase in the rev limit is enabled by greater precision in the engine, namely: a forged crankshaft (this ensures the required rigidity at high engine speeds), fully floating pistons and newly designed valve springs.

A Sportier Engine Sound that Responds More Crisply to Accelerator Inputs
The engine sound (a key element in the "listening" category of the MX-5 fishbone chart) is a big part of the sports car experience. With the latest facelift, Mazda engineers made the Mazda MX-5 engine sound even better without causing aural discomfort for people outside the car. Notably, they increased the rigidity of the plastic surge tank in the intake manifold. The optimized surge tank combines with the new forged crankshaft to realize a clearer engine sound throughout the rev range. In vehicles with the six-speed manual transmission, the engineers also adopted a newly developed device called an Induction Sound Enhancer (ISE). This amplifies the pulses that occur when an accelerator input opens the throttle valve to increase air low into the engine, thereby delivering a more exciting sound to the cockpit. The intake sound created by the ISE feels synchronized with the driver's accelerator inputs, so the driver enjoys a crisp, thrilling engine sound even when using the accelerator pedal gently to adjust the revs for a downshift.

The Newly Evolved and Reined Transmissions
With the six-speed manual transmission, the meshing surfaces of the 1st-4th triple-cone synchronizers are now carbon coated, and the 3rd-4th synchronizer diameter has been increased. These improvements enable smoother shifts up to the engine's heightened rev limit of 7,500 rpm.
A six-speed Activematic automatic transmission that's newly available with the MX-5 for Europe incorporates two new control technologies. One is Direct Activematic (DAM), which allows the driver to quickly change gears using paddles on the steering wheel while still driving in the "D" range. It was developed to enable quick downshifts for three common situations: decelerating using engine braking on a downhill road; accelerating after decelerating into a corner; and overtaking another vehicle. (The driver does not need to select the "M" range before shifting down.) Since Direct Activematic enables engine braking and acceleration more quickly and easily, it makes driving easier and more fun. The other new technology is Active Adaptive Shift (AAS), by means of which the transmission control system evaluates the driving situation from factors such as the road's gradient and twistiness and the accelerator and brake inputs. When the system recognizes enthusiastic driving, it actively promotes upshifts and downshifts to realize a linear and sporty response that matches the driver's intentions.

An Athletic Design that Heightens Aerodynamic Performance
To improve handling stability, quietness, and high-speed fuel economy, the MX-5 development team drew on Mazda's expertise in incorporating aerodynamic improvements into styling that's faithful to a design theme. The main aerodynamic improvements are as follows:
    * air guides that protrude downward from the left and right corners of the front bumper
    * specification vehicles, except some specific markets)
    * protruding rear combination lamps
    * wider front tyre deflectors
The  Quieter Ride in the Roadster Coupe
Given the Roadster Coupe's more upscale positioning, the development team produced a quieter ride by reducing wheel resonance and adding damping and sound-insulating materials, such as urethane filling in the front suspension crossmember and damping material in the front part of the roof. Thanks to these improvements, road noise in the cockpit on a coarse road surface with the roof closed is 2.1dB lower than before. Quietness is further promoted in the Roadster Coupe and soft-top version by stiffer door modules and by newly added reinforcements on the No. 2 crossmember.

Mazda 6 US-spec, 2009

Mazda 6 US-spec, 2009

 

 

The original Mazda 6, introduced in late 2002 for the 2003 model year, made Zoom-Zoom the two most evocative words in the automotive lexicon. This sport sedan was the first Mazda vehicle to benefit from the spirit of a true sports car infused in a five-passenger, 4-door sedan. That revolutionary combination created a commotion in the mid-size class where strict practicality, affordability, and economy of operation usually leave no room for driving enjoyment. The original Mazda 6's vitality is what set it apart from competitors.

Times and tastes change. The all-new 2009 Mazda 6 takes everything learned in that first-generation car, as well as lessons learned from volumes of customer feedback, and proves Mazda's commitment to continuous improvement. Most important, though, this is the first Mazda vehicle designed, engineered, developed, and manufactured on US soil with the intention of surpassing American customer needs in countless categories.

Hiroshi Kajiyama served as program engineer for the new Mazda 6. Kajiyama, who graduated in electrical engineering at the Hiroshima Institute of Technology, brings 21 years of service at Mazda, ample experience with the first generation Mazda 6, and several years of program management to the project. Unlike most engineers, Kajiyama treats the Mazda 6 as a work of art rather than an inanimate machine. That attitude was key to instilling the soul of a sports car in the new Mazda 6.

Kajiyama established ambitious goals and high standards. To be widely recognized as the best vehicle available in the mid-size market, the Mazda 6's underlying concept rests solidly on three fundamental pillars:

A Unique Experience. The Mazda 6 inspires pride of ownership. Notes Kajiyama, "By elevating the quality level with exquisite craftsmanship, each Mazda 6 will form a strong bond and a powerful emotional connection with its owner. This relationship is reinforced by driving pleasure keyed to adult tastes, comfort that the driver and every passenger can feel and appreciate, and numerous special features that make every trip, long or short, a highly memorable and pleasurable experience."

An Insightful Package. The Mazda 6 goes beyond existing mid-size sedan solutions to provide innovative packaging inside a larger envelope, highly flexible seating and storage space, and an unusually attractive appearance. Kajiyama adds, "By building on our strengths and accomplishments, we're able to make the Mazda 6 the most versatile, comfortable, and enjoyable automobile this company has ever produced. This is what we mean by the evolution of Zoom-Zoom."

Mazda BT-50, 2009

Mazda BT-50, 2009

 

 

 Since launch in 2006, the stylish Mazda BT-50 pickup has been very popular throughout the world. This tough but sophisticated-looking lifestyle vehicle can do it all - carry bricks to a construction site or a surfboard to the beach, and after a wash-up cut a good figure for a night on the town. Its appeal reaches across target groups like no other car in the Mazda portfolio: from commercial users in rural areas of Europe and Asia, to fire-fighters in Greece, to young urbanites with sporty or adventurous lifestyles. Since launch, Mazda has sold over 60,000 units globally (over 19,000 in Europe) while winning several awards along the way during the 30 months period. These include Ute of the Year in Australia and Off-road Competition's Car of the Year in Russia.

Exterior updates for higher quality look and more choice
The Mazda BT-50 facelift can handle whatever a commercial user or an off-road adventurous lifestyle demand of it. As with the outgoing model, three cab versions are available (depending on market) with room for two (Regular Cab), four (Freestyle Cab) or five passengers (Double Cab) and cargo box lengths of 2,280 mm, 1,753 mm or 1,530 mm respectively. It retains its high quality, single-fascia front bumper, but now with an all-new design. The facelift front end has a large 'oblique H' with upper arms that grow out of the bonnet's character lines, and lower arms at the base of the lower bumper. This visually integrates the individual parts of the front end into a strong, harmonious Mazda family face. The Mazda five-point grille, for instance, is more clearly defined here, and the trapezoidal shapes of lower openings hint at the pickup's high level of driving fun. Designers then added new front headlamps with bright silver mouldings that make the front end seem wider giving the facelift version a stylish and muscular look.

More variability - a larger list of exterior combinations
The Mazda BT-50 facelift adds exterior features that will allow customers to differentiate their own models to a greater degree than ever before. The choice of single colours is increased from 9 to 11, including 5 new colours, and all 3 two-tone colours are replaced - highlight silver metallic combined with either titanium grey metallic, lagoon blue mica or black mica. Body coloured overfenders are now standard for all mica/metallic exterior colours on Mid and High Grades, the vehicle's side sills are now in a new silver metallic colour and a new 16-inch alloy wheel design (for 4WD models) is introduced. Customers looking for even more style can now order dark tinted glass for the side and rear windows for High Grade models as well (depending on market).

Interior - new fabrics, colours and lighting
The original Mazda BT-50 delivered interior stylishness and build quality befitting a sedan. The facelift model inherits its predecessor's interior it and finish with very small gaps between the dashboard and door trim, and adds higher quality fabrics, colours and lighting for even more sedan-like feel. For a fresher ambiance, lighting for the driver metres, climate and audio controls, and for the indirect lighting at the base of the centre console, is now amber. New fabrics are also introduced for the seats and door trim. High and Mid Grade seats now have a new chequered fabric for the seat centre, woven to give off a quality lustre, and Low Grade seats also have new patterned fabrics in the centre, replacing the plain grey of the outgoing model. The centre panel is also upgraded for the Mazda BT-50 facelift with an all-silver look that matches the new fabrics and lighting for more sedan-like sophistication.

Comfort like a passenger car
Sedan-like ambience is combined with sedan-like comfort, equipment, and interior functionality you would expect from a pickup. All versions of the Mazda BT-50 facelift have front seats that offer full sedan-like comfort, and the Double Cab features a large centre armrest between its bench-type rear seats, providing four adults with superior comfort. The pickup's high seating position is optimised by a front bonnet and a cargo box wall designed to support front and rear visibility, which is important for a vehicle with as many uses as this. The facelift version adds new heated side mirrors (depending on grade), which defog/defrost quickly. Inherited from the original Mazda BT-50 is a climate system that includes a two-intake duct blower for superior heating/cooling. Mazda BT-50 facelift also inherits its quiet interior - with large amounts of insulation, a low-noise air cleaner and radiator fan, and a smooth-running common-rail diesel with dual-mass flywheel.

Superior functionality inside and out
Loading and using the Mazda BT-50 facelift on a daily basis is easy, making it the ideal companion for work or play. The Freestyle Cab features Mazda's unique centre-opening doors that provide a wide opening for getting into and out of the rear seats, or for loading something behind the front seats. It still has a single-action lever in the tailgate for easy opening and closing, there are rope hooks on the outer edge or the insides of the cargo-box walls, and there are load rest stoppers (depending on grade and market) at the rear of the cabin that can be raised to secure items too long for the cargo bed. There are even guiding grooves on the cargo-box walls for sliding in dividers, which create two load areas in the back.

The front seats are slide adjustable and can be tilted forward. The steering wheel is tilt adjustable, allowing just about anyone to find the right driving position. Interior storage is at a level not usually seen in a pickup interior. There is a slide-out tray above the glovebox strong enough to hold up to 10 kg, a large floor console storage box and even a handy tool box under the rear cushion of the left rear seat (Freestyle Cab). There are pockets in the front and rear doors for bottles, power adjustable side mirrors, and a remote fuel cap cover release. Power windows with safety power cut-off all around and a one-touch up and down function for the driver, power door lock/unlock from the driver's seat, as well as a retractable key with keyless entry system (on Mid and High Grades) provide additional convenience.

New equipment - AUX jack for connecting an MP3 player
To take full advantage of the Mazda BT-50 facelift's quiet interior is an audio system (depending on grade and market) that employs a high-performance amplifier and audio level control (ALC), which automatically adjusts the tone characteristics between three levels to match the speed of the pickup at any given moment for just the right volume level. The audio system includes a radio, a CD player and up to four speakers (Regular Cab has two speakers). High Grade versions are equipped with a six speaker system with a 6-CD changer. The facelift adds an auxiliary (AUX) jack to the audio system, which allows you to play music from your MP3 player directly using the audio system of the vehicle.

Strong and fun to drive
The Mazda BT-50 facelift retains the MZR-CD 2.5-litre common-rail from its predecessor, known for being strong, reined and fuel- efficient. It is a DOHC 16-valve diesel engine that employs a variable- geometry turbo charger and a large intercooler to produce maximum power of 105 kW/143 PS at 3,500 rpm, and maximum torque of 330 Nm as low as 1,800 rpm. This gives lively engine response to pedal input for Zoom-Zoom driving fun when unloaded, and takes care of business towing up to 3,000 kg with a braked trailer (4x4 models). A variable swirl control valve (VSCV) is also employed and is combined with an optimised exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and a high-efficiency EGR cooler to ensure Euro Stage IV compliance and low tax costs in most countries.

The facelift version of the Mazda BT-50 inherits the acclaimed rear-wheel drive transmission of the outgoing model that meets the demands of commercial customers, lifestyle customers, or both at the same time. It has Mazda's precise, easy-to-shift five-speed manual transmission in either a 2WD only version or a 2WD/4WD version. The latter transmission not only has a large and robust transfer case that converts the engine's high torque into great traction in any on-road or off-road situation, it is also easy and convenient to use. It includes an electric Remote Free Wheel (RFW) hub system that allows shifting between 2WD and 4WD while driving up to 100 km/h. Back on solid roads and in 2WD mode, pushing the 'RFW' button automatically disconnects the front differential and prop shaft from the front wheels. This function enables you to drive at motorway speed right after driving offroad, without stopping in between. It contributes to better fuel economy, lower noise and optimal durability of the transmission. All models (except some 2WD Low Grade versions) are equipped with a rear limited- slip differential (LSD) with an enhanced torque ratio in line with the engine's higher torque, which automatically adjusts drive power between the two rear wheels to maintain traction on just about all kinds of surfaces.

Mazda 6 SAP Wagon, 2009

Mazda 6 SAP Wagon, 2009

 

 

The second-generation Mazda 6 was launched in November 2007 and represented an evolution of Mazda Zoom-Zoom.

Mazda 6 has always been a driver's car and with the launch of the new-generation model last year, the fun factor was improved even further. The second-generation Mazda 6 was introduced originally with four different engines - three lively MZR petrol engines (in 2.5, 2.0 and 1.8-litre displacements) delivering power between 170 PS to 120 PS, and a MZR-CD 2.0-litre common-rail turbo diesel producing 140 PS and 330 Nm of torque. Mazda now introduces a new clean turbo diesel in three power derivatives that is one of the quietest and most powerful in its class.

Mazda's new MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel has a lively yet cultivated character that will offer a truly exclusive driving experience under the bonnet of the second-generation Mazda 6. Offered in three versions producing 185, 163 and 125 PS of maximum output and powerful torque of 400, 360 and 310 Nm respectively, the MZR- CD 2.2 will meet the demands of a wide spectrum of customers in Europe.

Delivering the Power - Output and Torque
To realise this kind of power and torque with 2.2-litres of displacement, the MZR-CD 2.2 employs a highly efficient variable-geometry turbo charger (VGT) with curved (instead of straight) vanes on the turbine (exhaust) side. This increases maximum available torque at both low and high engine speeds, while also increasing all-important low- end response (as low as only 1,800 rpm with a lat maximum torque curve that continues until 3,000 rpm) that contributes smooth and powerful driving feel. When combined with an abradable seal on the compressor side (intake side), which reduces the clearance between the blade and the compressor housing, these deliver superior turbocharger response at just about all engine speeds.

Converting the engine's combustion energy into this much engine torque meant the pistons had to be designed to take the resulting high combustion pressure and temperatures. As a consequence, the pistons are made of an aluminium alloy with improved high- temperature fatigue strength. A half-Keystone cross-section top- ring with improved carbon scavenging abilities is used, and the groove for the top ring is made more durable with the adoption of a cooled ring carrier that increases the groove's cooling capability.

Mazda engineers also increased the fuel injection pressure to 200 MPa (by comparison, the previous generation MZR-CD 2.0- litre turbo diesel uses 180 MPa). They realised this by making functional improvements to the high-pressure pump, among other improvements, and by new injectors featuring 10 spray holes per injector (instead of the 6 spray holes for the MZR-CD 2.0-litre) that are smaller (reduced from 0.13 mm to just 0.119 mm). These changes enable more precise injection timing, and an increase in the number of times of injection and injection amount. And it allowed the fuel injection patterns at transitional states to be more precisely controlled. As a result, the Mazda 6 MZR-CD 2.2 provides superior acceleration in those situations you need it most, like entering the motorway. It also surpasses its competitors in lower speed acceleration. Acceleration in 3rd gear from 50 to 100 km/h, for example, is 1.7 seconds faster than the MZR-CD 2.0-litre.

Low Fuel Consumption
This new diesel engine also meets the requirements of Mazda's 'Sustainable Zoom-Zoom' plan by being frugal at the pump: all power derivatives use between 5.5 and 5.7 litres of fuel per 100 km (combined), some of the segment's lowest.

New injector with 10 spray holes
It achieves this by employing highly responsive solenoids for the common-rail injection system that achieve a minimum injection interval of just 0.2 ms (the MZR-CD 2.0 is 0.3 ms), which speeds up the minimum injection interval by about 30 percent, improves its responsiveness and lowers fuel usage. Fuel is also saved by lowering the compression ratio to 16.3:1 and utilizing the temperature cooling effect this causes, which secures more mixing time until ignition, and allows a more precise fuel-injection pattern. As a result, fuel consumption is a low 5.5 to 5.7 litres (depending on derivative) with CO 2 emissions from between 147 to 152 g/km. In fact, the MZR- CD 2.2-litre offers substantially higher power and torque than the previous-generation MZR-CD 2.0-litre, while delivering equal levels of fuel consumption and CO 2 emissions.

Low Emissions - Particulate Filter with World's First Ceramic Support Matrix Structure
Mazda engineers not only made the new 2.2-litre turbo diesel powerful and low consumption, they also lowered the amount of raw emissions and raised the efficiency of its after-treatment technologies. The engine's highly responsive fuel-injection technologies have new injectors (see above) that yield better atomized spray characteristics. These are combined with an exhaust-gas recirculation (EGR) system with a cooler bypass structure - that decreases unburned gases and NOx - and the high- response solenoids described above, to realise superior emissions performance without sacrificing power.

Emissions are then treated by a diesel particulate filter that uses a unique Mazda-developed, ceramic support matrix structure, which is the first of its kind to go into production in the world. Previous diesel particulate filters converted particulate matter (PM) into CO 2 by reacting the PM with the oxygen in the exhaust gas at the surface of the catalytic particle. This meant that the time needed for filter regeneration was determined by the amount of oxygen on the surface of the catalyst.

When the temperature of the exhaust gas is raised to quicken the regeneration time, then technological issues - like higher fuel usage or the ceramics exceeding their thermal resistance limit - can occur. Mazda solved these issues by using highly thermal resistant material for the ceramic monolith of its new diesel particulate filter, and designing the internal structure of the ceramic support matrix with passages for oxygen to enable a large amount of oxygen to be utilized for PM combustion. With this, Mazda has succeeded in significantly increasing the PM combustion speed. As a result, the number of times the diesel particulate filter has to regenerate (in combined mode) is cut in half, and the time necessary for each regeneration phase is shortened by one third. For owners of the new Mazda 6 MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel, this means worry-free filter regeneration and, because fewer regeneration phases are required and each takes less time, less fuel consumption overall.

Running Quiet
The new Mazda 6 MZR-CD 2.2-litre common-rail not only offers superior output, fuel economy and emissions performance, it is also one of the quietest engines in its segment with this amount of torque. This ensures a driving experience that is one of the non- premium segment's most exclusive. To achieve this, the new engine has a lower block with a very rigid aluminium-alloy structure, with the bottom of the cylinder block skirt and the cylinder block's main bearing caps bolted to the lower block at 18 separate locations. This high structural rigidity is combined with a front chain-driven cassette-type balancer shaft to suppress booming noise and lower radiated noise, and to deliver optimised pedal response and engine sound for a reined acceleration feel.

Packaging and Weight Management
Keeping the new MZR-CD 2.2-litre engine as close as possible in size and weight to that of the MZR-CD 2.0-litre diesel was a key factor in ensuring exhilarating performance combined with fuel efficiency and low emissions. Some of the newly adopted technologies, such as the balancer shaft and DOHC, result in increased size and weight. Nonetheless, numerous innovations were added to manage size and weight increases, with the goal of maintaining packaging and keeping the weight increase within just 6.0 kg of the previous MZR- CD 2.0-litre turbo diesel.

Due to the increase in displacement, the stroke of the MZR-CD 2.2 was lengthened by 8 mm compared to the MZR-CD 2.0. At the same time, the overall length of the connecting rods was shortened by optimizing their design. As a result, their weight remains at the same level as in the MZR-CD 2.0. The adoption of a balancer shaft that decreases vibration caused by reciprocating motion made a thinner cylinder block with fewer ribs possible (if the MZR-CD 2.2 had no balancer shaft, the cylinder block would have been 1.9 kg heavier than that of MZR-CD 2.0, and its crankshaft 1.3 kg heavier.). Furthermore, decrease in size and weight was achieved by making the balancer housing, oil pump housing, and the oil suction pipe a single structure. To achieve even more weight reduction, while increasing the cooling capability of the new engine, the oil cooler is made of aluminium (-0.6 kg). The weight of the cam cover is also reduced by making it out of plastic (-1.0 kg).

Packaging and Weight Management
Keeping the new MZR-CD 2.2-litre engine as close as possible in size and weight to that of the MZR-CD 2.0-litre diesel was a key factor in ensuring exhilarating performance combined with fuel efficiency and low emissions. Some of the newly adopted technologies, such as the balancer shaft and DOHC, result in increased size and weight. Nonetheless, numerous innovations were added to manage size and weight increases, with the goal of maintaining packaging and keeping the weight increase within just 6.0 kg of the previous MZR- CD 2.0-litre turbo diesel.

Due to the increase in displacement, the stroke of the MZR-CD 2.2 was lengthened by 8 mm compared to the MZR-CD 2.0. At the same time, the overall length of the connecting rods was shortened by optimizing their design. As a result, their weight remains at the same level as in the MZR-CD 2.0. The adoption of a balancer shaft that decreases vibration caused by reciprocating motion made a thinner cylinder block with fewer ribs possible (if the MZR-CD 2.2 had no balancer shaft, the cylinder block would have been 1.9 kg heavier than that of MZR-CD 2.0, and its crankshaft 1.3 kg heavier.). Furthermore, decrease in size and weight was achieved by making the balancer housing, oil pump housing, and the oil suction pipe a single structure. To achieve even more weight reduction, while increasing the cooling capability of the new engine, the oil cooler is made of aluminium (-0.6 kg). The weight of the cam cover is also reduced by making it out of plastic (-1.0 kg).

Mazda 6 - the first Mazda with Rear Vehicle Monitoring System

Not only does the Mazda 6 2.2-litre diesel meet the requirements of Mazda's 'Sustainable Zoom-Zoom' strategy by delivering high power and torque with low consumption, it also meets the strategy's focus on improved safety by introducing a new vehicle monitoring system to the line-up as an enhancement to its already long list of active safety features. Employing two wide-angle, 24 GHz microwave radar units on the right and left side of the rear bumper, this system is a fully independent active safety feature that detects and warns the driver of an approaching vehicle - when driving at speeds over 60 kilometers per hour - before he has a chance to change lanes by mistake. It also detects vehicles driving in the blind spot area, and is effective even in bad weather conditions.

Mazda 6 SAP, 2009

Mazda 6 SAP, 2009

 

The second-generation Mazda 6 was launched in November 2007 and represented an evolution of Mazda Zoom-Zoom. It set a new standard in the non-premium CD segment for its combination of eye-catching stylishness, exclusive driving experience and insightful packaging, all offered in three distinct body styles. Since launch, it has found over 85,000 owners in Europe and has been contributing to Mazda Motor Europe's record sales in 2008. Now the Mazda 6 is about to get even more popular with the introduction of a new Mazda-developed 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine that is one of the quietest and most powerful in its segment and a new rear vehicle monitoring system for more active safety.

Mazda 6 has always been a driver's car and with the launch of the new-generation model last year, the fun factor was improved even further. The second-generation Mazda 6 was introduced originally with four different engines - three lively MZR petrol engines (in 2.5, 2.0 and 1.8-litre displacements) delivering power between 170 PS to 120 PS, and a MZR-CD 2.0-litre common-rail turbo diesel producing 140 PS and 330 Nm of torque. Mazda now introduces a new clean turbo diesel in three power derivatives that is one of the quietest and most powerful in its class.

Delivering the Power - Output and Torque

To realise this kind of power and torque with 2.2-litres of displacement, the MZR-CD 2.2 employs a highly efficient variable-geometry turbo charger (VGT) with curved (instead of straight) vanes on the turbine (exhaust) side. This increases maximum available torque at both low and high engine speeds, while also increasing all-important low- end response (as low as only 1,800 rpm with a lat maximum torque curve that continues until 3,000 rpm) that contributes smooth and powerful driving feel. When combined with an abradable seal on the compressor side (intake side), which reduces the clearance between the blade and the compressor housing, these deliver superior turbocharger response at just about all engine speeds.

Converting the engine's combustion energy into this much engine torque meant the pistons had to be designed to take the resulting high combustion pressure and temperatures. As a consequence, the pistons are made of an aluminium alloy with improved high- temperature fatigue strength. A half-Keystone cross-section top- ring with improved carbon scavenging abilities is used, and the groove for the top ring is made more durable with the adoption of a cooled ring carrier that increases the groove's cooling capability.

Mazda engineers also increased the fuel injection pressure to 200 MPa (by comparison, the previous generation MZR-CD 2.0- litre turbo diesel uses 180 MPa). They realised this by making functional improvements to the high-pressure pump, among other improvements, and by new injectors featuring 10 spray holes per injector (instead of the 6 spray holes for the MZR-CD 2.0-litre) that are smaller (reduced from 0.13 mm to just 0.119 mm). These changes enable more precise injection timing, and an increase in the number of times of injection and injection amount. And it allowed the fuel injection patterns at transitional states to be more precisely controlled. As a result, the Mazda 6 MZR-CD 2.2 provides superior acceleration in those situations you need it most, like entering the motorway. It also surpasses its competitors in lower speed acceleration. Acceleration in 3rd gear from 50 to 100 km/h, for example, is 1.7 seconds faster than the MZR-CD 2.0-litre.

Low Fuel Consumption
This new diesel engine also meets the requirements of Mazda's 'Sustainable Zoom-Zoom' plan by being frugal at the pump: all power derivatives use between 5.5 and 5.7 litres of fuel per 100 km (combined), some of the segment's lowest.

New injector with 10 spray holes
It achieves this by employing highly responsive solenoids for the common-rail injection system that achieve a minimum injection interval of just 0.2 ms (the MZR-CD 2.0 is 0.3 ms), which speeds up the minimum injection interval by about 30 percent, improves its responsiveness and lowers fuel usage. Fuel is also saved by lowering the compression ratio to 16.3:1 and utilizing the temperature cooling effect this causes, which secures more mixing time until ignition, and allows a more precise fuel-injection pattern. As a result, fuel consumption is a low 5.5 to 5.7 litres (depending on derivative) with CO 2 emissions from between 147 to 152 g/km. In fact, the MZR- CD 2.2-litre offers substantially higher power and torque than the previous-generation MZR-CD 2.0-litre, while delivering equal levels of fuel consumption and CO 2 emissions.

Low Emissions - Particulate Filter with World's First Ceramic Support Matrix Structure
Mazda engineers not only made the new 2.2-litre turbo diesel powerful and low consumption, they also lowered the amount of raw emissions and raised the efficiency of its after-treatment technologies. The engine's highly responsive fuel-injection technologies have new injectors (see above) that yield better atomized spray characteristics. These are combined with an exhaust-gas recirculation (EGR) system with a cooler bypass structure - that decreases unburned gases and NOx - and the high- response solenoids described above, to realise superior emissions performance without sacrificing power.

Emissions are then treated by a diesel particulate filter that uses a unique Mazda-developed, ceramic support matrix structure, which is the first of its kind to go into production in the world. Previous diesel particulate filters converted particulate matter (PM) into CO 2 by reacting the PM with the oxygen in the exhaust gas at the surface of the catalytic particle. This meant that the time needed for filter regeneration was determined by the amount of oxygen on the surface of the catalyst.

When the temperature of the exhaust gas is raised to quicken the regeneration time, then technological issues - like higher fuel usage or the ceramics exceeding their thermal resistance limit - can occur. Mazda solved these issues by using highly thermal resistant material for the ceramic monolith of its new diesel particulate filter, and designing the internal structure of the ceramic support matrix with passages for oxygen to enable a large amount of oxygen to be utilized for PM combustion. With this, Mazda has succeeded in significantly increasing the PM combustion speed. As a result, the number of times the diesel particulate filter has to regenerate (in combined mode) is cut in half, and the time necessary for each regeneration phase is shortened by one third. For owners of the new Mazda 6 MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel, this means worry-free filter regeneration and, because fewer regeneration phases are required and each takes less time, less fuel consumption overall.

Running Quiet
The new Mazda 6 MZR-CD 2.2-litre common-rail not only offers superior output, fuel economy and emissions performance, it is also one of the quietest engines in its segment with this amount of torque. This ensures a driving experience that is one of the non- premium segment's most exclusive. To achieve this, the new engine has a lower block with a very rigid aluminium-alloy structure, with the bottom of the cylinder block skirt and the cylinder block's main bearing caps bolted to the lower block at 18 separate locations. This high structural rigidity is combined with a front chain-driven cassette-type balancer shaft to suppress booming noise and lower radiated noise, and to deliver optimised pedal response and engine sound for a reined acceleration feel.

Packaging and Weight Management
Keeping the new MZR-CD 2.2-litre engine as close as possible in size and weight to that of the MZR-CD 2.0-litre diesel was a key factor in ensuring exhilarating performance combined with fuel efficiency and low emissions. Some of the newly adopted technologies, such as the balancer shaft and DOHC, result in increased size and weight. Nonetheless, numerous innovations were added to manage size and weight increases, with the goal of maintaining packaging and keeping the weight increase within just 6.0 kg of the previous MZR- CD 2.0-litre turbo diesel.

Due to the increase in displacement, the stroke of the MZR-CD 2.2 was lengthened by 8 mm compared to the MZR-CD 2.0. At the same time, the overall length of the connecting rods was shortened by optimizing their design. As a result, their weight remains at the same level as in the MZR-CD 2.0. The adoption of a balancer shaft that decreases vibration caused by reciprocating motion made a thinner cylinder block with fewer ribs possible (if the MZR-CD 2.2 had no balancer shaft, the cylinder block would have been 1.9 kg heavier than that of MZR-CD 2.0, and its crankshaft 1.3 kg heavier.). Furthermore, decrease in size and weight was achieved by making the balancer housing, oil pump housing, and the oil suction pipe a single structure. To achieve even more weight reduction, while increasing the cooling capability of the new engine, the oil cooler is made of aluminium (-0.6 kg). The weight of the cam cover is also reduced by making it out of plastic (-1.0 kg).

Packaging and Weight Management
Keeping the new MZR-CD 2.2-litre engine as close as possible in size and weight to that of the MZR-CD 2.0-litre diesel was a key factor in ensuring exhilarating performance combined with fuel efficiency and low emissions. Some of the newly adopted technologies, such as the balancer shaft and DOHC, result in increased size and weight. Nonetheless, numerous innovations were added to manage size and weight increases, with the goal of maintaining packaging and keeping the weight increase within just 6.0 kg of the previous MZR- CD 2.0-litre turbo diesel.

Due to the increase in displacement, the stroke of the MZR-CD 2.2 was lengthened by 8 mm compared to the MZR-CD 2.0. At the same time, the overall length of the connecting rods was shortened by optimizing their design. As a result, their weight remains at the same level as in the MZR-CD 2.0. The adoption of a balancer shaft that decreases vibration caused by reciprocating motion made a thinner cylinder block with fewer ribs possible (if the MZR-CD 2.2 had no balancer shaft, the cylinder block would have been 1.9 kg heavier than that of MZR-CD 2.0, and its crankshaft 1.3 kg heavier.). Furthermore, decrease in size and weight was achieved by making the balancer housing, oil pump housing, and the oil suction pipe a single structure. To achieve even more weight reduction, while increasing the cooling capability of the new engine, the oil cooler is made of aluminium (-0.6 kg). The weight of the cam cover is also reduced by making it out of plastic (-1.0 kg).

Mazda 6 - the first Mazda with Rear Vehicle Monitoring System
Not only does the Mazda 6 2.2-litre diesel meet the requirements of Mazda's 'Sustainable Zoom-Zoom' strategy by delivering high power and torque with low consumption, it also meets the strategy's focus on improved safety by introducing a new vehicle monitoring system to the line-up as an enhancement to its already long list of active safety features. Employing two wide-angle, 24 GHz microwave radar units on the right and left side of the rear bumper, this system is a fully independent active safety feature that detects and warns the driver of an approaching vehicle - when driving at speeds over 60 kilometers per hour - before he has a chance to change lanes by mistake. It also detects vehicles driving in the blind spot area, and is effective even in bad weather conditions.

Warns You if a Car approaches from the Left or Right Rear
The two radar units are positioned to face outwards from the vehicle's centre line to cover the left and right lanes at the back of the car within a range of about 50 m. These radar units emit microwaves, which reflect off a following vehicle - including smaller vehicles like motorcycles - and are picked up again by the radar units in the bumper.

The Mazda 6 system is outfitted with two 'proximity indicator lights' placed in the inner garnish sails at the base of each A-pillar. These illuminate on the side where a car is detected approaching from behind. They blink (together with a beep sound) if the driver switches on the turn signal in the direction of the busy lane.

The system recognises the lanes on each side of the car independently or both at the same time when the lanes are full. It does not detect cars behind in the same lane.

Warns You before Changing Lanes
If the system detects a car that is approximately 5 seconds away from reaching the Mazda 6, it illuminates the proximity indicator light to warn the driver. If the approaching vehicle passes at a high speed, the proximity indicator will stay illuminated the entire time. Once the approaching vehicle completely passes the Mazda 6 equipped with rear vehicle monitoring system, the light will turn off again.

If the driver switches on the turn signal in the direction of the approaching vehicle before it completely passes, the proximity light will blink and a beep sound will warn the driver not to change lanes.

Design - Japanese Aesthetics in Three Distinct Body Styles
The Mazda 6's athletic, sophisticated exterior design and high levels of build quality has been turning heads all over Europe since launch last year. Its exquisite sense of form based on Japanese aesthetics gives it a unique road presence that is distinctly Mazda.

The hatchback version is 4,735 mm long, 1,795 mm wide and 1,440 mm high and the sportiest-looking of the three versions with a sleek roofline at the C-pillar for a coupe-like image. The Mazda 6 Wagon is 4,765 mm long, 1,795 mm wide and 1,490 mm high and the longest of the three models, with a distinctive kick-up belt line and sleek windows for a cut through the wind look. And the Mazda 6 Sedan has the same exterior dimensions as the hatchback and offers customers the four-door + boot look of stylish quality and sophistication.

The dynamic and sleek exterior design of the Mazda 6 also makes it one of the segment's most aerodynamic vehicles. All external components were streamlined to produce a coefficient of drag (Cd) of only 0.27 (sedan and hatchback) and just 0.28 (wagon), which contributes to stability at high speeds and an overall lowering of fuel consumption.

On the inside, Mazda 6 was designed to take full advantage of the car's great looks, high quality and fun-to-drive character by delivering what engineers termed 'Kizuna,' or a strong emotional bond between the car and its owner. Its wrap-around cockpit allows the driver to feel one with the car, and to fully enjoy an exquisite driving experience not usually found on cars in this class. The inside is not only attractive and roomy, with a floating-look dashboard that makes the inside seem even larger, it also has the highest levels of interior craftsmanship ever on a Mazda vehicle. This quality is underscored by interior forms that are appealing to look at and use on a daily basis.

Space, Comfort & Equipment - Easy to Use and Practical
Though sporty-looking and sleek on the outside, the Mazda 6 still provides more than enough family-sized space and practicality on the inside, which is especially important to CD segment customers. Compared to the previous model, the second-generation Mazda 6 has 20 mm more rear leg room and 9 mm more rear shoulder room, which translates into more comfort precisely where it is needed - in the back seats. Customers also like the fact

that it has one of the largest forward-upward views in the segment. When combined with specially designed rear head restraints and door mirrors that give the driver a better view to the rear, the Mazda 6 is not only safer to drive, but easier to manoeuvre in tight spaces. To this it adds high levels of practicality with one of the segment's widest boot/ tailgate openings, Mazda's acclaimed Karakuri rear seat folding system that drops the 60/40 rear seats down by pulling a latch in the boot trim (hatchback and wagon), and a Karakuri tonneau cover that automatically lifts when you open and close the liftgate (wagon only).

Mazda 6 is also designed with comfort in mind. It has specially formed seat frames for good long-trip comfort that also provide side support during sportier driving. And it makes the ride comfortable whatever the weather might be with a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system that has separate temperature controls for the driver and the passenger. The cockpit is also easy on the eyes with blackout driver metres (depending on grade) with amber- red illumination circled by indirect blue lighting, a new sports car- like steering wheel and gear shift lever positions that are closer to the driver for easier control and shifting. Mazda 6 is also easy on the ears with a quiet driving experience, regardless of what engine is under the bonnet. Compared to the first-generation model, the Mazda 6 is 2.5 dB (from 70 dB to 67.5 dB) quieter when driving at 60 km/h on a coarse road (see 'Running Quiet' above for NVH measures on the new MZR-CD 2.2-litre diesel).

The new Mazda 6 has plenty of convenient storage compartments that make it practical and easy-to-use on a daily basis. For small item storage there is a large glovebox, and a large centre console box - in dimpled-finished leather with a sliding armrest with leather stitching - that has cupholders in front. There are cupholders in the fold-out centre arm rest in the rear and front door trim pockets that can hold a 1.5-litre bottle and documents. Practical as well is the car's Action Illumination system with light fade up and down, and interactive light reaction when using the CD player and radio.

Up to five grades are available (depending on market) each with a long list of equipment, some onboard a Mazda for the very first time. There is more steering wheel control functionality (audio, navigation, air-conditioning, trip computer and Bluetooth® system) than ever before - a product of using a unique cross-functional network (CF-Net). A parking sensor system is available, a navigation system featuring a touch screen, voice command and a 7-inch split display (depending on market and grade), a Bluetooth® mobile phone system with seven languages, bi-xenon head lamps, adaptive front lighting system (AFS), a tyre pressure monitoring system and even a premium BOSE® audio system with eight speakers and AudioPilot® noise-compensation technology - just to mention a few. This is on top of a choice of 12 exterior colours, leather seats and an available sunroof.

Chassis & Safety - Sporty, Predictable and Safe
The Mazda 6 took Mazda's acclaimed steering and handling attributes to the next level at launch. Not only is the Mazda 6 larger and better equipped than the previous-generation Mazda 6, it is also lighter. This is the third vehicle - after the third-generation MX-5 and the new Mazda2 - to benefit from Mazda's 'lightweight strategy' to lower weight and reduce fuel consumption. The Mazda 6 body shell has 7 percent more high and ultra-high-strength steel than the previous Mazda 6, which results in double-digit increases in both flexural and torsional rigidity for all body styles - without a gain in weight. This, along with weight savings at other locations, means today's Mazda 6 is up to 35 kg lighter than its predecessor, has better handling and fuel efficiency, and enhanced crash resistance.

The front suspension is a high-mount double wishbone system that uses two additional perimeter frame mounting points (six vs. the four on the previous Mazda 6), with dynamic dampers for the upper arms to absorb noise and vibrations, and stiff damper settings for excellent overall rigidity and ride comfort. This is combined with a single-pivot type lower arm, which gives more precise steering and predictability. Mazda's E-type multilink rear suspension is employed at the back axle with large-diameter trailing arm bushes placed 25 mm higher than those of the previous model to create a different geometry for improved rear lift control and a more linear toe-angle change during the rebound. The rear dampers are in an upright layout, which realises linear vehicle movement and a feeling of stability. Rack-drive electric power assist steering delivers a firm steering feel and contributes to lowering overall fuel consumption.

A long list of active and passive safety systems round out Mazda 6's outstanding package of attributes. Besides an all-new rear vehicle monitoring system, Mazda 6 also has an adaptive headlamp system that illuminates the curve when going around corners, Bi- xenon headlamps and a unique CF-NET, which allows minimal eye movement away from the road when using the vehicle systems. Added to this are large 299 mm ventilated front disc brakes and 280 mm rear brake discs for dependable deceleration; backed up by ABS, electronic brake distribution (EBD), brake assist, dynamic stability control (DSC) and a traction control system (TCS) as standard on all models.