2013 Geneva Motor Show

If we are nearing the end of February, then it must be time for the Geneva Auto Show that takes place each year in March. This is the 83rd time that automakers will gather in the Swiss city to display their latest models; the Palexpo center will open its gates on March 5 for the press and two days later for the public and will last until March 17.

In spite of all the fuss about “green” transportation, the 2013 Geneva Auto Show’s most anticipated new models are sports cars.

First and foremost, there’s the Alfa Romeo 4C – a two-seater, rear-wheel drive coupe with a carbon fiber chassis that heralds the Italian manufacturer’s new era and its long-anticipated return to the U.S. market.

Then there’s the Formula 1 duel that has been taken to the streets: Ferrari will unveil the Enzo successor, code-named F150, and rival McLaren, the production version of the P1. Interestingly, both hypercars will be powered by hybrid powertrains and despite putting out in excess of 900-horses, they promise ultra-low CO2 emissions.

Other sports car that will make their premiere in Geneva are the open-top versions of the brand-new Corvette Stingray and the Toyota GT 86 (Scion FR-S in the U.S.), the Aston Martin Rapide S and Vantage SP10 and, of course, a special Lamborghini to celebrate the Sant’ Agata-based company’s 50th anniversary.

Naturally, the show won’t be only about sports cars: BMW will launch the 3-Series GT, China's Qoros its 3 Sedan, Volvo its updated range and the VW Group the electrified Audi A3 and VW Golf models.

That’s far from a full description of the cars that will debut at the 2013 Geneva Auto Show, but you can scroll down and view the provisional list in detail.

My Rotary Diaries: The Turn and the Screw of RWD Sports Cars

So far, I have sung the praise of the RX-8 and its multi-layered character. Yet, in 21 years of driving, it was in my current steed that I came closer than ever to having the one thing every driver fears the most: THE BIG ONE.

It was late at night and raining. Getting wheel spin in first, second and third earlier, I had switched the traction control back on as the slimy surface didn’t warrant any heroics.

Less than half a mile from home, there’s a tricky left-hander that is extremely slippery in the entry even when it’s dry. I’ve crossed it a zillion times in many different cars and at various speeds.

Entering that bend at maybe 30-40 mph (50-65 km/h) the instant I turned the wheel the RX-8 didn’t oversteer or understeer at all. Instead, it scythed its own trajectory, crossed over to the opposite lane and headed for the sole stretch of barrier in maybe 10 miles or so.

I can’t quite recall if the DSC intervened at all, only my hands sawing at the wheel and my right foot firmly pressing the brake pedal as I was watching the barrier approaching through the driver’s side window!

As I was bracing myself for the force of impact, the sound of metal crunched and the airbags going off, it came to a halt. I could see the barrier inches away from my face, so close I didn’t even dare open the door. The car had stopped at a slight angle to the barriers so I checked the left mirror to see if the rear wing had made contact. It hadn’t.

I had scrubbed enough speed off so if I had crashed, it would probably damage the car and, subsequently, my pockets and ego.... Even so, if someone was coming from the opposite direction the consequences would be much direr and it would all be my fault.

Had I seriously misjudged the conditions? Had I become complacent due to the forgiving handling and the safety net of electronics? Damn, if I was going too fast it should have warned me like it had until then, no matter the road conditions, and it didn’t.

The next morning I was walking towards the car when I noticed something was askew. The left front tire was completely flat! When it was removed, I discovered a screw in the inner side of the tread. I must have picked it up prior to the near miss as it had tracked and steered faultlessly up to that point.

Partly relieved that it wasn’t my or the car’s fault, I was still dumbfounded by the realization that there was nothing I could have done to prevent the car from veering off the road. It was a freak occurrence and I was fortunate to walk away with not a scratch and without hurting anyone else.

On another note, the odometer may have read only had 68,000 km (42,000 miles) on it, but the calendar showed that its six-year/120,000 km (75,000-mile) service beckoned. It was a big one too, because apart from the usual engine oil/filter job and various checks, it should have its gearbox oil and spark plugs changed.

Rotary-powered Mazdas are not the DIY kind of cars and I searched for someone with experience on servicing them – preferably lots of it. The specialist I took it too came highly recommended and the presence of other RX-8s, including one he had prepared for racing as well as him not objecting to me being present, were a good sign.

In spite of charging a mere €50 (about US$66 at the current exchange rates) for labor, the parts came in at nearly €450 (US$595). That burned a nice, round €500 (US$660) hole in my pocket. If in any car proper maintenance can save you from a much more expensive problem down the road, in rotary engine-powered models it is even more imperative, unless you already have a spare engine sitting in your garage…

Articles Source : Carscoop

Mazda Logo

Mazda Motor Corporation is a Japanese automotive manufacturer based in Fuchū, Aki District, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan.

 

Mazda Logo

 

Mazda Logo

 

Mazda Logo

 

Mazda Logo

In 2007, Mazda produced almost 1.3 million vehicles for global sales, the majority of which (nearly 1 million) were produced in the company's Japanese plants, with the remainder coming from a variety of other plants worldwide.

Articles Source : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mazda

2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe

The facelifted Mazda MX-5 is more fun to drive than ever. The latest version of the best selling roadster in history not only features more responsive acceleration and braking, but also an aggressive front-end design as well as enhanced pedestrian safety.

 

2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe

 

2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe

 

2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe

 

2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe

 

2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe

 

2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe

 

2013 Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe

Mazda's technology specialists fine-tuned the acceleration management program (on manual shift models) to improve acceleration control and with it the linear response to throttle input, especially at lower speeds. By optimising the vacuum brake booster, meanwhile, they also enhanced brake return control. The upshot here is better handling thanks to superior front-rear load distribution. Drivers will appreciate these advancements most when braking into or accelerating out of curves. The Mazda MX-5, which has always excelled on winding roads, now reacts even more faithfully.

Preventing pedestrian injuries

The facelifted Mazda MX-5 is ahead of the curve in other ways, too. The new active bonnet system automatically raises the hood during an impact with a pedestrian, enlarging the crumple zone to prevent or at least diminish the severity of injuries, particularly to the head. The lower section of the front bumper has also been reinforced to better protect people's legs. The Mazda MX-5 is thus ready for stricter EU pedestrian safety standards.

When adding these safety features, designers also reworked the front-end of Mazda's legendary two-seater. The deeper grille and new bumper design express a lower, wider stance and a more assertive face, while the new fog lamp bezels and chin spoiler improve aerodynamics. Available as a retractable hardtop coupe or classic soft-top convertible, the new MX-5 comes in a choice of eight body colours including one stunning new option: Dolphin Grey. Inside, the glossy dark grey steering wheel spokes and panel décor provide a refined sporty optic.

Powered either by a 126 PS MZR 1.8-litre coupled to a five-speed manual or the 160 PS MZR 2.0-litre with a choice of automatic or manual six-speed transmissions, the facelifted Mazda MX-5 is introduced in Europe, starting in fall 2012.

Articles Source : netcarshow

2013 Mazda MX-5

The facelifted Mazda MX-5 is more fun to drive than ever. The latest version of the best selling roadster in history not only features more responsive acceleration and braking, but also an aggressive front-end design as well as enhanced pedestrian safety.

 

2013 Mazda MX-5

 

2013 Mazda MX-5

 

2013 Mazda MX-5

 

2013 Mazda MX-5

Mazda's technology specialists fine-tuned the acceleration management program (on manual shift models) to improve acceleration control and with it the linear response to throttle input, especially at lower speeds. By optimising the vacuum brake booster, meanwhile, they also enhanced brake return control. The upshot here is better handling thanks to superior front-rear load distribution. Drivers will appreciate these advancements most when braking into or accelerating out of curves. The Mazda MX-5, which has always excelled on winding roads, now reacts even more faithfully.

Preventing pedestrian injuries

The facelifted Mazda MX-5 is ahead of the curve in other ways, too. The new active bonnet system automatically raises the hood during an impact with a pedestrian, enlarging the crumple zone to prevent or at least diminish the severity of injuries, particularly to the head. The lower section of the front bumper has also been reinforced to better protect people's legs. The Mazda MX-5 is thus ready for stricter EU pedestrian safety standards.

When adding these safety features, designers also reworked the front-end of Mazda's legendary two-seater. The deeper grille and new bumper design express a lower, wider stance and a more assertive face, while the new fog lamp bezels and chin spoiler improve aerodynamics. Available as a retractable hardtop coupe or classic soft-top convertible, the new MX-5 comes in a choice of eight body colours including one stunning new option: Dolphin Grey. Inside, the glossy dark grey steering wheel spokes and panel décor provide a refined sporty optic.

Powered either by a 126 PS MZR 1.8-litre coupled to a five-speed manual or the 160 PS MZR 2.0-litre with a choice of automatic or manual six-speed transmissions, the facelifted Mazda MX-5 is introduced in Europe, starting in fall 2012.

Articles Source : netcarshow

2013 Mazda CX-9

Mazda chose this week's Australian International Motor Show in Sydney for the first public appearance of its redesigned CX-9 crossover. The Japanese firm's seven-seater model has been with us since 2007 having received its first facelift in 2009.

 

2013 Mazda CX-9

For its second facelift, Mazda brings the CX-9 closer to its newer products like the "6" and the CX-5 by applying the 'KODO - Soul of Motion' design theme to front and rear ends of the mid-size crossover, while also making some minor tweaks to the interior and adding a raft of new safety features.

 

2013 Mazda CX-9

At least from some angles, the 2013 CX-9's new and more serious fascia that features a five-point grille with a chrome surround connected to the revamped headlamps and a brand new bumper design, looks sharper and more modern than the outgoing model.

 

2013 Mazda CX-9

Mazda said that select models get LED Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) with a halo ring light guide around the headlamp unit.

 

2013 Mazda CX-9

Rounding out the exterior styling changes are the redesigned rear combination lamps, the re-sculptured rear bumper, the different exhaust trims, the newly styled 20-inch aluminum wheels, and fresh paint finishes.

 

2013 Mazda CX-9

The enhancements inside include different color schemes and materials for the seats and door panels, satin-silver decorative trims, white illumination for the instrument panel gauges that also get new finishes and a redesigned shift knob.

The infotainment system was also upgraded and features the latest audio, navigation and speech-recognition systems.

Finally, Mazda said it has added a raft of advanced "i-ACTIVSENSE" safety features such as Forward Obstruction Warning (FOW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and High Beam Control (HBC).

At least in Australia, there are no changes made to the CX-9's 3.7-liter V6 engine that continues to produce 273hp (203kW) and peak torque of 367Nm.

The North American model should make its world premiere at the LA Auto Show in November or at the Detroit motor show in mid-January 2013.

Articles Source : Carscoop

2013 Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 marks the dawning of a new era for Mazda. It is the first of a new generation of vehicles, a compact crossover SUV that embodies a balance between the best of all worlds: fun, safety and sustainability, all in a very compelling package.

 

2013 Mazda CX-5

 

2013 Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 symbolises the latest advancement to the company's focus on Jinba Ittai, the feeling of oneness between car and driver known from the legendary MX-5. As the first Mazda to feature the entire range of brand-new SKYACTIV technology for more efficient, more fun and more environmentally-friendly lightweight cars, the Mazda CX-5 paves the way for a new generation of Mazda vehicles. Developed using Mazda's distinctive breakthrough approach to vehicle design, engineering and manufacturing, SKYACTIV's creators successfully resolved conflicting objectives to come up with a line of engines, transmissions, bodies and chassis that offer customers a new level of value.

 

2013 Mazda CX-5

Developers of this special new model focused on four key values. Hence the Mazda CX-5's appealing, emotional design as well as its interior functionality and craftsmanship. Sustainability, too, was a top priority, both in terms of the vehicle's environmental imprint as well as safety. The remarkably responsive yet predictable driving dynamics, finally, were obligatory for Mazda's latest model.

 

2013 Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5's unique SKYACTIV powertrains deliver all the qualities that make a vehicle fun to drive and to own: more torque, better responsiveness and better fuel economy. The latest edition of Sustainable Zoom-Zoom, here is a vehicle that does precisely what the driver wants and reacts exactly as one would expect.

What you also get is the fruits of Mazda's lightweight strategy. Looking to reduce the weight of its new generation models by 100 kg, engineers exhaustively sought out optimisation potential, but always with an eye to improving strength and safety. And safe it is: In addition to the outstanding passive safety afforded by a complete body and chassis redesign as one component of the SKYACTIV programme, the Mazda CX-5 features active safety systems previously unheard of in its segment and an extraordinarily good field of view for the driver.

This is just one example of the intelligent design of the CX-5. The basis for Mazda's brand-new look is the company's innovative "KODO - Soul of Motion" design theme, with its bold front face and new signature wing that highlights the redesigned five-point grille. Inside, the roomy, sophisticated cabin clearly testifies to how this car was built for life in today's world. Featuring refreshingly clever Karakuri features, such as the unique 4:2:4 three-way split folding rear seat, and a highly intuitive HMI/infotainment system, the Mazda CX-5 takes convenience and flexibility to a new level.

With its interior versatility, its predictable and responsive handling and its class-leading fuel economy and CO2 emissions, the Mazda CX-5 instantly raises the bar for the compact SUV segment in Europe.

Design

Mazda set out to enter the competitive compact crossover SUV segment with a vehicle that could do more than just look the part. It needed to evoke a level of emotion and driving passion worthy of the Mazda badge. Therefore, the all-new CX-5 is the first production model to feature the company's new "KODO - Soul of Motion" design theme. Inspired by the beauty and power of nature along with the concept of motion, the Mazda CX-5 achieves an outstanding balance between style and performance.

KODO was first unveiled in 2010 on the Mazda Shinari, a 4-door sports coupe concept, and then the Mazda Minagi, the compact crossover SUV concept on which the Mazda CX-5 is based. Now, starting with the CX-5, KODO will exemplify the design of a whole new generation of Mazda vehicles: a faster, more forceful and more soulful means of motion.

Brimming with vitality, emotion and agility, KODO's essence can be found in the movements of animals. Specifically, Mazda CX-5 designers studied cheetahs - the fastest land animals - observing how they use their entire body as a spring, setting enormous energy into motion with incredible dexterity and grace. Stirred by such beauty, the designers then set out to push the look of an SUV to another level with KODO.

One result is a sophisticated exterior that, while expressing SUV sturdiness and functionality, boldly projects an elegant sense of motion - and anticipation of an exhilarating drive.

Articles Source : netcarshow

2013 Mazda 6 Wagon

Here are some new pieces of the puzzle that is the 2014 model year Mazda6, and more specifically, fresh photos of the station wagon variant that will make its first public appearance at this month's Paris Motor Show.

 

2013 Mazda 6 Wagon

The more practical and roomier (at least in terms of luggage space) Mazda6 Wagon sports an equally athletic design as its saloon counterpart with a heavily slanted rear window and a tailgate that digs in much lower into the rear bumper compared to the four-door sedan to make loading easier.

 

2013 Mazda 6 Wagon

We'll have to wait for Mazda to release more details on the estate version to see if it’s exterior dimensions differ from the saloon and how big of a cargo area it offers.

 

2013 Mazda 6 Wagon

The same goes for the powertrains options, as Mazda has only revealed the engine lineup for the Russian market sedan model, which will be available with a pair of four-cylinder SKYACTIVE-G petrol units, a 2.0-liter producing 148hp (150PS) and a 2.5-liter with 189hp (192PS).

 

2013 Mazda 6 Wagon

The European market specification Mazda6 Sedan and Wagon are likely to be offered with the Japanese brand's new SKYACTIVE-D 2.2-liter twin-turbo diesel in two states of tune, generating 150hp and 175hp.

Articles Source : Carscoop

2013 Mazda 6 Sedan

The all new Mazda6 sedan will make its world premiere at the 2012 Moscow Motor Show. The new flagship will be the second of a new generation of Mazda vehicles to adopt the full range of SKYACTIV technology and the “Kodo – Soul of Motion” design language.

 

2013 Mazda 6 Sedan

At the front, it now incorporates Mazda’s ‘signature wing’ family face design. And for the first time on a Mazda, the headlights features a halo ring and LED daytime running lights to give the car a distinctive look.

 

2013 Mazda 6 Sedan

The new Mazda6 sits on a 2,830mm long wheelbase, 105mm longer than the current model. The front wheel has been moved forward by 100mm in relation to the A-pillar, resulting in reduced overhang. It is also more spacious inside with better leg, head and shoulder room.

 

2013 Mazda 6 Sedan

 

2013 Mazda 6 Sedan

 

2013 Mazda 6 Sedan

A range of new SKYACTIV engines will be on offer, including both petrol and diesel. The Russian market vehicle boasts the following engine line-ups:

• SKYACTIV-G 2.0 petrol – 110kW/6,000rpm and 210Nm/4,000rpm. Paired with either 6-speed SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic or 6-speed SKYACTIV-MT manual.
• SKYACTIV-G 2.5 petrol – 141kW/5,700rpm and 256Nm/3,250rpm. Paired with 6-speed SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic.

The new Mazda6 features the company’s i-stop idling stop system, which restarts the engine in a class-leading 0.35 seconds, as well as the i-ELOOP brake energy regeneration system which begins charging a capacitor the moment the accelerator pedal is released. It also also promises to offer better driving dynamics.

 

2013 Mazda 6 Sedan

The 2013 Mazda6 will go on sale worldwide starting late 2012. Australian pricing and specifications will be released closer to local launch date.

Articles Source : Mazdashow

2013 Mazda 3 MPS

One of Europe's most powerful compacts just got a bit sportier. Featuring assorted new body accents, the 191 kW/260 PS Mazda 3 MPS stands out with richer contrasts and a more dynamic overall look for the new model year.

 

2013 Mazda 3 MPS

The upgraded Mazda 3 MPS retains the previous model's exceptionally responsive handling and performance, and highlights the stunning exterior design by sporting new gunmetal finish for the 18-inch alloy wheels, whilst the inner roof spoiler (beneath the unique MPS wing), door mirror housings and lower rear bumper trim are finished in a sleek Black Mica finish.

 

2013 Mazda 3 MPS

"Visual upgrades to the Mazda 3 MPS compliment its strikingly bold design, which boasts a dynamic, aggressive and assertive look, that sets it apart from the rest of the Mazda 3 line-up and encapsulate the 'defy convention' philosophy of our brand," comments Peter Allibon, Sales Director, Mazda UK.

 

2013 Mazda 3 MPS

"Mazda 3 MPS delivers a unique combination of exhilarating driving fun and everyday compact car practicality. Its distinctive bonnet air-intake, gunmetal 18-inch alloy wheels and large rear wing with the new inner spoiler create a muscular, athletic appearance. Delivering sensationally spirited performance, the Mazda 3 MPS boasts 'stand out' looks which give it a great road presence, plus exquisite handling and incredible dynamics. It is the ultimate expression of driving excitement and Mazda's defy convention attitude, in a sophisticated super-hatch. Alongside sensational performance it provides all the accessibility, practicality, reliability and build quality of its Mazda 3 sister models," adds Allibon.

 

2013 Mazda 3 MPS

Each Mazda 3 MPS is fitted with the immensely powerful and responsive 2.3-litre MZR DISI Turbo petrol engine. It generates maximum power of 260PS and 380Nm of torque (at just 3,000rpm) and drives the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission with wider spaced gear ratios and a Limited Slip Differential. The dual exhaust pipes deliver a suitably sporty rasp at low revs, but give a 10dB noise reduction at engine speeds over 5,000rpm for improved levels of comfort when driving on open roads.

 

2013 Mazda 3 MPS

For enhanced 'active' safety appropriate for a high-performance model, the Mazda 3 MPS comes with Bi-Xenon headlights with swivel-type Adaptive Front Light System (AFS), front fog lamps, a radar-based rear vehicle monitoring (RVM) system and larger, 320mm diameter ventilated front disc brakes.

The upgraded Mazda 3 MPS will be available in a choice of four metallic/mica/pearlescent colours - Aluminium Silver, Black Mica, Crystal White Pearlescent and Velocity Red - free of extra charge.

What hasn't changed is the exceptional handling and performance, care of the inspiring turbocharged direct injection 2.3-litre DISI petrol powerplant under the bonnet. Generating 380 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpms, it propels the 5-door Mazda 3 MPS from a standstill to 100km/h in only 6.1 seconds and a top speed of 250km/h (governed).

Articles Source : netcarshow