Mazda RX-8

2009 MAZDA RX-8: FURTHER EVOLUTION FOR THE ROTARY REVOLUTION
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.
For 2009, Mazda will further the evolution of the four-door, four-seater sports coupe, giving RX-8 a refreshed exterior and interior design, enhanced performance and a new R3 sport package for the ultimate driving enthusiast.
Unchanged is the core of the RX-8 – a high-powered, lightweight and perfectly balanced machine powered by the world-renowned twin-rotor RENESIS rotary engine.
“Dating back to the Cosmo Sport released in 1967, every sports car ever developed by Mazda has had the same fundamental mission – to provide car lovers with a vehicle that’s fun-to-drive, exciting to look at and easy to own,” said Tetsu Nakazawa, Mazda North American Operations’ RX-8 vehicle line manager. “The 2009 RX-8 embodies that mission, conveying the unique and distinctive Mazda brand DNA to the fullest.”
To enhance the highly successful RX-8, Mazda engineers focused on innovation in three key areas for the 2009 RX-8: styling, performance and packaging. “The enhancements made to RX-8′s exterior, interior, packaging and performance takes it to a whole new level of visual and driving excitement,” remarked Nakazawa.
STYLING INNOVATION – REFRESHED DESIGN CUES PROVIDE “HIGH-QUALITY” DYNAMISM
RX-8 was designed with an athletically sculpted exterior that provides a sense of originality that’s unrivaled in the marketplace today. For 2009, RX-8 receives design enhancements that are meant to freshen the styling and give RX-8 a new look, without impairing the basic design theme. Refinements for the 2009 model year 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 2009 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 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 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 2009 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.
An extremely low cabin floor allows the seats to be mounted low in the chassis, which, along with a low instrument cluster and hood, allows a low center of gravity and allows outstanding occupant visibility. Mazda designers concentrated on the shape of the front seat backs and the rear seat cushions to ensure adequate rear-seat knee room. Front seat slide-rails are positioned to allow maximum leg room for rear-seat passengers.
The rotary design element is incorporated through the interior of the 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 RX-8′s instrument cluster was developed to reduce eye fatigue and strain.
PERFORMANCE INNOVATION – MORE SPORTS CAR DRIVING PLEASURE
Through-and-through, the RX-8 is a pure sports car that gives the driver an exciting and dynamic experience. For 2009, engineers improved RX-8 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 RX-8 increased acceleration and performance, as well as even greater responsiveness to the accelerator pedal – always a rotary-engine and
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.
SUPERIOR SAFETY
When designing the RX-8, safety was given as much of a priority as was performance. For Mazda, the safety process incorporates both accident avoidance and accident protection. In effect, this approach to safety means the RX-8 can help the driver avoid various dangers and protect occupants in the unfortunate event of a collision. In rollover tests performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the RX-8 achieved an impressive five-star rating.
Mazda engineers integrated numerous active and passive safety elements throughout the car. Active safety features, which require input from the driver, include the use of large ABS-equipped disc brakes on all wheels as well as precise steering and suspension systems. Dynamic Stability Control (available on Sport models with Performance package, standard on Touring and Grand Touring) delivers a superior level of handling that can be disabled when driving and road conditions allow safe operation.
Passive systems, or those that take effect automatically without the driver’s involvement, also are present throughout the RX-8. Despite the absence of a center B-pillar, the RX-8 has an exceptionally rigid body, accomplished through the use of the vertical pillars built in the rear doors and a series of locking pins, which hold the doors together and bind each door directly into the roof and floor. Integrating the frame components helps dissipate crash energy through the vehicle’s structure.
Other standard passive systems on the RX-8 include front airbags, seat-mounted side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags. Additionally, the front end and engine bay have ample crumple zones, the front seats are designed to reduce whiplash injuries, the brake pedal is designed to break away in the event of a collision of sufficient force to protect feet and legs and all four seating positions are fitted with three-point seatbelts. Even pedestrian protection was considered, as the RX-8 is fitted with Mazda’s “shock-cone” hood design that yields more to the impact of a pedestrian onto the hood than a standard design, yet is strong enough to not deform in normal use.

Mazda A3

MSRP: $15,045-23,195
Invoice: $14,108-21,715
2010 Mazda 3 news, pictures, and information
ALL-NEW MAZDA3 BOOSTS THE SPORT COMPACT BAR TO UNPRECEDENTED HEIGHTS
In sync with consumers’ mindset-change toward affordable, efficient, yet high-quality automobiles, Mazda presents the all-new 2010 MAZDA3. This redefined, reengineered, and restyled sport compact climbs atop its predecessor’s tall shoulders to deliver improved appearance and performance, fresh features, and an unmatched level of refinement.
Like all Mazdas, the 2010 MAZDA3 has the soul of a sports car, ensuring that driving enjoyment is a top priority. In response to the rising expectations of a dedicated sport-compact customer base and new consumers attracted to a fuel-efficient yet highly versatile 4- or 5-door sedan, this second-generation model also offers:
• A more sophisticated and exciting exterior hinting at Mazda’s Nagare (motion and flow) design philosophy
• Elevated driving dynamics attributable to comprehensive body, chassis, and powertrain enhancements
• Key safety and environmental upgrades
• A higher level of standard and optional equipment
• An overall sophistication that ventures beyond the sport-compact segment to rival import models costing thousands more
The MAZDA3 is Mazda’s most gratifying success story. The first generation sold for the past five years exceeded the expectations of nearly 2-million owners around the world while earning 90 major awards from car critics and enthusiast magazine editors. America’s leading consumer publication listed the MAZDA3 as one of the best vehicles costing less than $25,000. Reader surveys gave this car top scores for reliability and low operating expense, two additional reasons why it earned a ‘RECOMMENDED’ rating.
One out of every three Mazdas sold worldwide is a MAZDA3. In the US, its sales increased each year for the last five years. In 2008, the last year in the first generation MAZDA3 lifecycle, it singlehandedly represented 44 percent of Mazda North American Operation’s sales volume.
MAZDA3 is a favorite for consumers shopping for their first new vehicle. MAZDA3 buyers are typically the youngest, both in their segment and among the greater Mazda family. By consistently exceeding ambitious wants and needs, the MAZDA3 continues to earn the loyalty of its youthful customer base. Offering two bodystyles, three trim levels, and four separate powertrain options, the new MAZDA3 is expected to spread the Zoom-Zoom spirit far and wide.
According to David Matthew, MAZDA3′s vehicle line manager, ‘This product has earned its stripes as a high quality and exciting sport compact. Our customers voice four reasons why they choose this product over direct competitors as well as alternatives outside the sport-compact segment:
• Zoom-Zoom Design-MAZDA3′s dynamic styling stands out from the small-car crowd to provide customers lasting pride of ownership.
• Zoom-Zoom Performance-This car’s driving character is steeped in vigor and exhilaration, the sheer joy of motion. It delivers on the visual promise provided by its distinctive exterior. Long after the new wears off, MAZDA3 continues putting a smile on its driver’s face.
• Exemplary Quality and Craftsmanship-Every see and touch point is finished to a level of perfection unmatched in the compact class. MAZDA3′s interior design and execution goes beyond Japanese competitors to rival more expensive European brands.
• Insightful Features-Several of MAZDA3′s rivals-Civic, Focus, Sentra-skip the versatile 5-door bodystyle, a configuration one third of the MAZDA3 customer base prefers. Mazda also pioneered the availability of upmarket features such as a navigation system, leather trim, xenon headlamps, electronic stability control, and rain-sensing wipers. MAZDA3 is well known for offering the creature comforts and equipment savvy buyers are seeking in a small, affordable, and highly maneuverable sedan.
ZOOM-ZOOM NEVER SLEEPS
Success has been good to the MAZDA3. The customer devotion it achieved spurred Mazda’s engineering team to design and develop a successor capable of making major strides in driving enjoyment, fuel efficiency, ride poise, occupant protection, and all-around user friendliness.
According to Program Manager Yoshiyuki Maeda, ‘We had no intention of merely protecting the position we held. Instead, our task was to keep the target moving for our competitors by further exceeding customer expectations. Our goal was to create a sport compact capable of advancing driving pleasure to new heights. This is the essence of Mazda’s Sustainable Zoom-Zoom credo and what separates our company and our products from other cars and brands.
‘The renewal process began by identifying exactly what made the existing MAZDA3 such a global overwhelming success. The Zoom-Zoom driving experience rose to the forefront as our standout attribute. With that in mind, we set to work creating a new generation capable of delivering even more driving enjoyment. Instead of altering the size and general makeup, we focused on implementing improvements throughout the body structure, powertrain, and chassis that would be immediately apparent to the driver and appreciated by every MAZDA3 occupant.
‘Realizing that the Zoom-Zoom emotional spirit is both static and dynamic, we gave the new MAZDA3 a more expressive and sophisticated interior and exterior with added sportiness. With consumption and environmental stewardship concerns growing around the globe, the MAZDA3 also provides an excellent opportunity to showcase our latest gains in fuel efficiency and exhaust emissions.
‘New features-many of which are borrowed from the new MAZDA6-are also introduced here with the aim of exceeding constantly rising customer expectations. Ultimately, we designed and engineered a whole new MAZDA3 that blends the best of the previous model with large and small refinements in countless areas.’
BOLDER, MORE BEAUTIFUL EXTERIOR
Chief designer Kunihiko Kurisu describes the design concept as ‘inheriting MAZDA3′s established identity while making it more expressive.’ He continues ‘I wanted to strengthen the Mazda brand with the all-new MAZDA3 design. Key designers from not only Japan but also Mazda North American Operations and Mazda Motor Europe worked very closely to create a more emotional design with an even richer expression.’
Jonathan Frear, who worked on the MAZDA3′s design for two years at Mazda Motor Europe, before joining Mazda North American Operations last April, Carlos Salaff, a senior designer who made major contributions at the quarter-scale model stage, and Jordan Meadows, Mazda North American Operations’ design manager, are all proud of what they have collectively achieved. ‘The new MAZDA3 provided us an opportunity to translate new design cues into the reality of a car which Mazda customers can own, drive, and enjoy,’ notes Meadows. ‘You may note some first hints of Nagare design appearing.’
‘It’s all about the thought processes,’ adds Frear. ‘There are strong similarities between recent concepts and the new MAZDA3 in the grille execution, the front and rear lamp treatments, and the deep creases that play an important role in the front fender design. New lighting technology has given us the opportunity to express motion and flow in more interesting and exciting ways. So all of the MAZDA3 fans who love their current cars will surely appreciate the dramatic fashion statement we’ve designed into this new edition.’
It begins with a bold grille that is purposely polarizing. ‘Mazda has never been afraid of taking design risks,’ says Salaff. We always strive to push our exterior, to stretch what is considered normal. We wanted the MAZDA3′s dominant grille design to be bold because that will separate this car further from the blasé competitors and, by leaping ahead of the crowd, keep us looking fresh even late in this product’s life.’
‘The MAZDA3′s new face also helps distinguish it from the new MAZDA6,’ adds Frear. ‘However, the five-sided opening is still instantly recognizable as a strong Mazda design cue. Likewise, the aggressively sculpted front fenders and hood share a clear family resemblance with the MAZDA6 and RX-8. Our ‘soul of a sports car’ mantra isn’t restricted to powertrain and chassis attributes.’
Combining the two medium-sized grille openings used previously into one larger opening also pays functional dividends. Frear explains: ‘Shifting the air-intake lower on the car increases the pressure of the flow. As a result, the actual grille opening is 20-percent smaller than what was necessary with the previous generation MAZDA3. Most of the air is routed over the hood or around the sides of the car, yielding a significantly lower drag coefficient. (The previous drag coefficient ranged from 0.30 to 0.32, depending on bodystyle and tire size, and has now been reduced from 0.29 to 0.31.) Cars equipped with an automatic transmission have a second driver’s-side inlet opening that routes air through a heat exchanger.
‘It’s important to note that we have used the front bumper surface as a key MAZDA3 design element,’ adds Frear. ‘The grille and various elements within its periphery are three dimensional so they literally flow into the surrounding surfaces. The Mazda identification badge is larger and prominently raised above the front body surface.
‘Other Nagare-like flow lines are evident in the hood, down the sides of the car, and in the center of the decklid. MAZDA3 is very much a preview of coming attractions.
‘The front-to-rear rise of the beltline gives the MAZDA3 a crouched, expectant look of a predator ready to pounce. This treatment also provides functional benefits. The low-in-front window opening provides excellent outward visibility. The driver can easily spot lane markings and the road surface close to the car. But a higher belt-line in the rear seat area gives occupants a greater sense of security. Likewise, the elevated decklid surface is both an aerodynamic aid and a means of maximizing trunk room.’
Meadows adds, ‘designers always attempt to build a strong emotional connection with their customers. We do it through their hearts-by giving them cars they are genuinely proud to own. They appreciate the quality, they’re pleased with a reasonable price, but Mazda owners are most proud of how their cars drive and the attractive appearance. They expect their cars to be a reflection of their personalities, so Mazdas are purposely youthful and outgoing. Those character traits read through loud and clear in the MAZDA3′s design language.’
‘We’re also conscious of the fact that this sport compact is likely to spend major portions of its life in urban areas. So the front end is purposely configured to connote the soul of a sports car. Those who pull up from behind or get passed by the MAZDA3 see the vivid taillamp execution and dual exhaust pipes in the case of the 3s model. The precision and attention to detail suggests a much more expensive automobile. And in the side surfaces, there’s ample evidence of our Zoom-Zoom spirit as interpreted by the Nagare design aesthetic.’
STRAIGHT AS AN AERO
To maximize fuel economy while hushing wind noise, extra effort was invested in trimming the new MAZDA3′s aerodynamic drag. Subtle reshaping of the front bumper beam greatly diminishes the turbulence of air passing through the grille. Several speed flaps located in the radiator shroud automatically open at highway velocities to allow some air to bypass the cooling fan.
Wind tunnel testing revealed that small deflectors located near the front tires and subtle adjustments to the upper-forward corners of the A-pillars, outside mirrors, windshield wipers, and taillamps also helped smooth air flow along the sides of the car. The net gain was a six-percent reduction in wind noise. In terms of aero performance, the new MAZDA3 is one of the most efficient entries in its segment.
DRIVER-ORIENTED, PREMIUM-QUALITY INTERIOR
The new MAZDA3′s cockpit is configured to support the driver in a more dedicated manner than any sport-compact competitor. Two large instrument clusters are carefully positioned and clearly marked to deliver engine and road speed information. Key controls are located in the steering wheel spokes where they can be reached with minimum distraction. A new Multi-Information Display screen containing navigation, audio, and trip information is positioned high on the instrument panel to avoid the need for the driver to refocus vision off the road ahead. A second screen slightly to the right provides station frequency and climate control setting information.
Mazda’s Human Machine Interface approach breaks the interior into three key zones: displays and controls used most frequently are located high and close to the driver to significantly reduce eye motion and refocusing; audio and climate controls are also elevated in the center stack to minimize the amount of head motion needed to change any setting; switches located on the door arm rest, steering column, and steering wheel are designed for intuitive operation so they can often be activated with no need for head or eye motion. Responding to the knowledge gained from human-machine studies, the new MAZDA3′s center console was elevated to shorten the reach to the shift lever and parking brake more by than two inches.
In keeping with the Zoom-Zoom philosophy, the interior of every Mazda is not just a place to sit and travel, it’s the location where the joy of driving and the satisfaction of owning something special are delivered. From the pleasant sound of the entry chime to the gradual rise of interior illumination, every MAZDA3 interior design detail is carefully conceived and executed with high quality in mind. Roof pillars and the beltline are designed to maximize outward visibility and the feeling of roomy openness.
The new instrument panel top cover is a padded, seamless, and elegantly grained surface that sweeps from the center console to both A-pillars. The center console provides two cupholders, a sliding armrest, and a roomy storage box, before blending in a continuous curve into the instrument panel. HVAC and audio controls are large, properly textured and illuminated to provide a visual feedback that a command has been received. A damper is included to smooth the opening and closing of the small compartment built into the instrument panel, the overhead sunglasses storage box and the roomy glove box.
Improved seating comfort is the result of front cushions extended by 0.8-inches for enhanced thigh support. Seatbacks are reshaped for more lumbar support and extended by 1.4-inches for added shoulder support. Optional sport-seat upper bolsters are canted inward more aggressively for added restraint during hard cornering. A segment-first eight-way driver’s seat with memory has been added to the optional features list. Dual-zone automatic temperature control, heated seats, and a BOSE ® Centerpoint audio system are other new features also not offered by other sport compact competitors. The five-channel surround sound system engineered cooperatively with BOSE® experts includes digital amplifier, noise cancellation technology, and an array of ten premium speakers.
Top versions of the MAZDA3 have a small-diameter leather-wrapped steering wheel and soft-touch surfaces finished with French-stitched seams. Seating areas are available in black or dune colors in both cloth and leather. All MAZDA3 interiors feature a black instrument panel with pewter-painted accents and black carpeting. All models feature a 60-40 split-folding rear seat as standard to stretch the utility of the cargo compartment.
The MAZDA3′s new Multi-Information Display (MID) is patterned after the compact aftermarket navigational devices that provide guidance at an affordable price. Controls located on the steering wheel select the information to be displayed on the 4.1-inch LCD color screen. In addition to maps and turn-by-turn guidance, the screen conveys MP-3 and i-Pod program information, trip data including fuel economy, plus various maintenance and alert messages. A monochromatic readout MID is also available without the navigational functions.
Advanced keyless entry allows a MAZDA3 driver to unlock the doors and start the engine with the key fob carried in a pocket or purse. A discrete door handle button and a start button on the dash are used in lieu of a key.
The addition of Bluetooth® capability in the new MAZDA3 provides wireless mobile phone and audio player connections and hands-free operation. Instrument panel and steering wheel switches can be used to sort through music selections.
ACTIVE AND PASSIVE SAFETY SYSTEMS
Steering and braking accuracy and feedback that leads to avoiding collisions is one of the best ways to avoid calamity and injury. Towards that end, the MAZDA3 excels in agility, maneuverability, and ease of control at the limits of braking and cornering adhesion. Powerful disc brakes, ABS and electro-hydraulic power steering are standard equipment. Dynamic Stability Control and Traction Control are standard on most models.
The MAZDA3s is the first compact on the market with an Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) containing self-leveling bi-xenon (high and low beam) headlamps. Standard equipment in the top Grand Touring trim level, the inner beam of this system steers up to 15 degrees into the turn to expand the illumination pattern.
To minimize the likelihood of injury when a collision cannot be avoided, the MAZDA3 uses a technology called Triple-H unibody design. Efficient H-shaped reinforcements in the floor, roof, and sides of the body structure resist intrusion and support crush zones at both ends of the vehicle. Six airbags and active head restraints are also standard MAZDA3 equipment. Side-curtain air bags, which help protect all outboard occupants, are a new fast-inflating design with 40-percent larger coverage area.
POWERTRAINS THAT STIR THE SOUL WITHOUT WOUNDING THE WALLET
Mazda’s MZR engine family is widely regarded as one of the world’s most advanced forms of fuel-efficient, high-energy propulsion. As before there are two distinct MZR four-cylinder engines available in the MAZDA3, both of which offer outstanding performance and efficiency.
MAZDA3i models are fitted with the MZR 2.0-liter engine, providing 148 hp at 6500 rpm and 135 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm. It features compact and light aluminum block and head construction with two chain-driven overhead camshafts operating four valves per cylinder for complete combustion, maximum efficiency, and minimal exhaust emissions. (PZEV versions of this engine, sold in California and select other states, produces 144 hp @ 6500 rpm and 132 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm.) Variable intake valve timing provides robust low-rpm performance with strong high rpm pull, all the way to the 6500 rpm redline. A light-weight nylon-reinforced intake manifold offers dual-mode flexibility with runner lengths ideally suited to both low- and high-rpm operation. A new front-mounted air pickup system feeds the 2.0-liter engine cooler air for combustion.
Two transmissions are offered in the MAZDA3i: a smooth-shifting manual box or a sophisticated, electronically controlled automatic with a manual-shift mode. Both are fitted with five forward speeds. Engine calibration changes and aerodynamic improvements yield a gain of one mpg in both city and highway driving with the manual transmission (25 city, 33 highway). The wider ratio spread provided by the new 5-speed automatic enhances both acceleration and mileage. On EPA test cycles, the MAZDA3i automatic achieves 24 mpg in city driving-a one mpg improvement-and 33 on the highway-an impressive 3 mpg (10 percent) gain.
MAZDA3s customers benefit from a healthier injection of Zoom-Zoom attributable to a move from 2.3 to 2.5-liters of displacement. This new engine is similar in most details to that found in the all-new 2009 MAZDA6i.
Changes from the previous 2.3L unit include a fatter bore and a longer stroke packed into a cylinder block with unchanged external dimensions by using cylinder-bore liners made of a steel-molybdenum alloy offering strength and stiffness increases of 30-percent. A forged-steel crankshaft provides the necessary stamina. Twin balance shafts located in the oil sump cancel second-order noise and vibration, allowing this engine to sing to its 6200 rpm redline.
The deep-skirt block is engineered for extra stiffness and main-bearing caps are integral with a ladder-type lower-block reinforcement.
To minimize the noise and vibration typically found on larger displacement four-cylinder engines, the damper at the forward end of the crankshaft is equipped with two tuned masses. At the output end, a new flexible flywheel also curbs NVH.
Fuel is delivered to the intake ports by an electronically controlled sequential injection system. Ignition coils are modular units positioned directly above the spark plugs. Shim-less bucket tappets require no maintenance. Light-weight pistons are coated with a special anti-friction compound and fitted with low-tension rings for improved gas mileage. Sintered powder-metal connecting rods and lighter full-floating wrist pins minimize the reciprocating weight. As a result, this engine hums as contentedly at 6000 rpm as it does at 2000 rpm.
Like the MZR 2.0-liter, the new 2.5-liter power plant features variable intake valve timing and a two-mode composite intake manifold. A 4-into-1 exhaust manifold improves cylinder scavenging and reduces the time necessary for the catalytic converter to warm to full operating temperature. Dual tailpipes and specially tuned mufflers provide a pleasant exhaust note without a hint of mid-range boom or high-rpm thrash.
Providing 167 hp at 6000 rpm and 168 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm, the MZR 2.5-liter engine is available with a six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed electronically controlled automatic with manual shift control – again, borrowed from the larger, up-market MAZDA6. (The PZEV version of this engine sold in California and other states produces 165 hp @ 6000 rpm and 167 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm). Despite an increase in power and displacement, fuel efficiency ratings show no loss over the 2009 2.3-liter models, with EPA figures of 21 city and 29 highway with a manual transmission and 22 city and 29 highway with the new automatic.
A uniquely Mazda Active Adaptive Shift protocol provides the new 5-speed automatic transmission with the performance and response that MAZDA3 customers expect. Part-throttle downshifts are delivered in sync with the nudge of the accelerator during passing. When the car is braked aggressively in anticipation of cornering, the transmission also downshifts to add engine braking and to prepare for an expedient exit from the bend. A wider overall ratio spread assists acceleration from rest while also providing quieter and more efficient highway cruising.
COMPREHENSIVELY IMPROVED BODY, CHASSIS
By refining the strengths of the previous unibody, steering, brakes, and suspension systems – instead of starting over with radically different designs – Mazda engineers delivered major improvements in ride and handling performance while also reducing several pounds from the unibody and chassis weight.
As before, MAZDA3 rides on a 103.9-inch wheelbase. Wheel track dimensions are also unchanged. A three-inch increase in length yields a lower drag coefficient, and additional fuel capacity with the 2.5-liter engine.
Unibody bending stiffness has been increased a significant seven percent by a major gain in the use of high-tensile-strength steel panels, by adding gussets in heavily loaded areas (such as at suspension mounting points), and by strategic increases in metal gauge (thickness).
In addition, a technique called weld bonding first used in the new MAZDA6 has also been applied to the MAZDA3′s unibody construction. At key locations – such as in the door aperture areas – the combination of structural adhesive and spot welds greatly enhances the unibody’s flex resistance. A stiffer structure also provides a quieter ride, improved suspension response to steering and cornering loads, and more stable cruising and braking performance. The savings in weight attributable to the new unibody construction methods is a significant 24 pounds.
Changes to the rubber-isolated front, and the rigidly mounted rear, subframes also enhance rigidity while saving weight. A new instrument panel support structure using two instead of the previous one steel reinforcement tubes saves 4.4 pounds while providing more solid support for the steering column. Adding ribs to the inner door panels and increasing the size of the roof reinforcement bar yield major reductions in NVH.
To improve steering precision and feel, a third mounting point has been added near the center of the electrohydraulic-assisted rack-and-pinion steering gear. The diameter of the rack has been increased from 1.57- to 1.61-inches for improved stiffness and to facilitate more precise calibration of the speed-dependent power assistance.
Because the previous car was so effective, suspension changes are modest. The span between front and rear anti-roll bar support points has been widened by nearly an inch to increase the effectiveness of the bars without raising their weight. Minor changes to the steering geometry and the layout of the multi-link rear suspension diminish understeer during turn-in and oversteer while exiting a bend. Front struts and the rear monotube dampers are recalibrated for this new generation to take advantage of the more robust unibody structure and tire specification changes.
Power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, electronic brake force distribution and brake assist are standard MAZDA3 equipment. Rotor sizes are 10.9-inches in front and 10.4-inches in back in the MAZDA3i and 11.8-inches in front and 11.0-inches in back in MAZDA3s models. The vacuum brake booster has been recalibrated to provide a more reassuring response to light pedal efforts without disturbing the direct and highly linear feel available during more aggressive braking. Dynamic Stability Control and Traction Control are now standard on the majority of MAZDA3 models.
As before, all-season radial tires are standard MAZDA3 equipment, though the base size is now 205/55HR-16 on 6.5-inch wheels. The more powerful MAZDA3s models roll on 17-inch wheels and V-rated tires. Changes in tire compound and construction yielded lower rolling resistance.
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
Proof that small changes can yield substantial results lies in the combination of lower drag with an extra gear in the MAZDA3i equipped with a 2.0-liter engine and automatic transmission. The rise in highway fuel economy is three-mpg or 10-percent.
In line with European directives regarding disposal at the end of a vehicle’s life, Mazda is well on its way to eliminating the use of lead, mercury, cadmium, and hexavalent chromium. Except for parts exempt from requirements, the new MAZDA3 contains none of the above materials.
Another Mazda innovation is the use of the world’s first single-nano-particle technology, which significantly reduces the amount of precious metals used in catalytic converters. By inventing a method of controlling precious metal particles less than five nanometers in diameter (one nanometer is a billionth of a meter) as well as a proprietary catalyst material structure, Mazda created the world’s first catalyst that features single, nano-sized precious metal particles embedded in fixed positions. With the single-nano catalyst, the underfloor catalytic converter in the new MAZDA3 certified to comply with U.S. Federal emissions standards requires only 0.15g/L of precious metals, approximately 70 percent less than the 0.55g/L in the previous model. It is also highly durable and effective in purifying vehicle exhaust gases.
New from front to back, from top to bottom, with heavily restyled bodies and updated or all-new powertrains, and a comprehensively revised interior, the 2010 MAZDA3 4-door and 5-door models are ready to protect their ground in the popular and ever-growing sport compact category. The new car offers a level of content, style, dynamics and sophistication simply not seen elsewhere in the segment.
Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City; and in Puerto Rico by Mazda de Puerto Rico in San Juan.

Mazda Shinari

2010 Mazda Shinari | sonics car Concept news, pictures, and information
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The Mazda Shinari is a pure design concept model of a four-door, four-seater sports coupe which perfectly expresses the ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’ design theme in a graceful and carefree form.
The Japanese word Shinari describes the powerful yet supple appearance of great resilient force when objects of high tensile strength, such as steel or bamboo, are twisted or bent. It also refers to the appearance of a person or animal as it flexibly transforms its body to generate a fast movement. Within this movement, Mazda designers discovered the potential to realize ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’.
One glance at Mazda Shinari Concept stirs the emotions. Its form expresses the powerful movement of a lean body with highly developed muscles, supple but at the same time filled with tension. Mazda’s desire is to reach car lovers’ hearts and go beyond the notion of rational logic. This form purely embodies that desire.
Designer’s challenge
Yasushi Nakamuta, the chief designer who led the design of the third generation Mazda MX-5, was the first to begin the ideation of the Mazda Shinari Concept: ‘The challenge for us was to create an innovative new expression for energetic and powerful movement; something that we had never attempted before. We began by developing the design around the image of a predator, as it strikes at its prey, or the stabbing movement in kendo, Japanese fencing, to express the instant where accumulated force is released.
Translating this initial moment of ‘instantaneous movement’ being pursued by Mazda design into the Mazda Shinari Concept car presented various challenges to both the designers and the modelers working on the project. The process involved a series of activities that saw the team draw inspiration from a variety of places. This included each team member creating sketches and freely sculpting models from clay to represent their own perceptions of ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’. It then continued with the exploration of the functional beauty seen in traditional Japanese crafts and the motion witnessed in Japan’s ancient martial arts.
As the team continued this exploratory process, Nakamuta focused on a force so powerful that it can bend a strong section of steel plate. The Mazda Shinari Concept design adds subtle twists and tension to create forms that express agile and powerful movement, resulting in the expression of ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’.
Exterior – unbridled expression of agile movement
With an image of strength emanating across every panel and component, the Mazda Shinari Concept looks ready to leap at any second. The strong backbone running through the body, the sudden release of pent-up energy, and the interplay of beautiful, supple movements – this form is the expression of all of these elements.
The appearance of the A-pillar, which tapers towards the rear of the body, the shape of the cabin, the front fender; these and Shinari’s other elements combine to create proportions that suggest the instantaneous release of energy to propel the car forward.
The distinctive front fenders represent the further evolution of the prominent fenders introduced in the Mazda RX-8. They emphasize the front wheels and accentuate the dynamic movement expressed in the side of the body, in a style that is both sporty and elegant. Character lines flow rearward from the front fenders and meet those traveling forward from the rear fenders in a multi-layered effect. This fusion creates an appearance that suggests a forceful sense of tension with a graceful beauty.
All of Mazda Shinari Concept’s body surfaces appear as if constantly undergoing transformation. There is no static shape to be found, as if the car is in perpetual motion. For instance the subtle control of the angle of the upper surface of the side sill, from the front to the rear, results in a form that suggests a flash of speed along the body of the car.
The three-dimensional sculpting of the front grille proudly emphasizes the Mazda lineage. A powerful line of movement originates at the grille and continues through the bonnet, fender, front lamp modules and bumper. In particular the floating bar – which links the grille with the headlights – is a three-dimensional expression of speed, an accent that represents a new signature element for Mazda. For the headlights, Mazda’s designers have created a headlamp structure with no outer lens, exposing the deep-set lights and suggesting the eyes of a wild animal about to pounce on its prey.
Aerodynamic performance was a major priority for Mazda Shinari Concept, and the centre of the lower sections – on both the front and rear bumpers – are designed to optimize the flow of air along the underbody of the car. The flared line that connects the front bumper with the side sills and rear bumper, fulfils a similar role and streamlines the flow of air along the body, while further contributing to the aerodynamic performance of the car.
The outer mirror, wheels and tailpipes accentuate the sense of agility and lightness and convey a hand-made feel with a human touch which contributes to the impression of superior, premium quality.
For the body colour a luminous metallic blue has been chosen to convey an image of hard metal. The strong yet elaborate brilliance of the highlights combines with the clearly defined contrast of the shadows to create a balance between the sharp, three-dimensional form and the appearance of surfaces bending and transforming; a balance which was a design objective. The fierce, bright flash of the forged steel of a Japanese sword is combined with wisdom and sensuality to express superlative quality.
Interior – Exploring a new approach of oneness between car and driver
When creating the Shinari concept interior Mazda’s objective was to design a distinctive premium cockpit that incorporates its interior DNA. While the exterior design can be appreciated through motion, the interior, meanwhile, is experienced in a static, seated position. A commitment to essential mechanical function and excellent ergonomics has created a driver focused interior that embodies the ‘ultimate athletic space’ while expressing a sense of speed inside the vehicle.
Entering the vehicle your eye is immediately drawn to the driver focused cockpit which surrounds the driver. Its angle and surface movement sets the tone for the whole of the interior. The highlight of interior is a surfacing between the upper and the lower instrument panel which is contrasted by crisp surface edges and precision mechanical details. Interior craftsmanship is characterized by the use of bright trim work integrated along the cockpit’s perimeter and accentuating the sensation of speed. An authentic application of materials including machined aluminum, soft natural leathers and the precision design of instrumentation and controls, gives the interior an alluring quality that exceeds expectations.
Craftsmanship meets total car control
Mazda design wanted to re-define the proximity of the driver to the instrumentation and controls by establishing intuitive ‘reach zones’; what Mazda calls ‘dedicated driving ergonomics’. All instrumentation and controls have been designed and positioned to enhance the driving experience. By separating the instrument panel into two individual zones, the driver cockpit is isolated from the rest of the interior and allows the driver to focus on the task of driving. To reinforce the message of driver orientation, the design of the primary and secondary instruments echo the main cockpit shape, to provide a clean uncluttered view from the driver’s seat. Seated behind a thick-rimmed, three-spoke steering wheel the driver sits within a uniquely contoured seat, providing maximum comfort and support.
The principle of ‘dedicated driving ergonomics’ is further reflected in the car’s next generation Human Machine Interface (HMI). The availability of smaller electronic components has allowed Mazda Shinari Concept’s designers to create a floating HMI three-dimensional display; a design element that represents the very latest HMI technology . The system offers three distinct modes: ‘Business, Pleasure and Sport’.
The Business-mode enables the driver to stay connected to his work day tasks. In Pleasure-mode, focus is on comfort and entertainment, allowing the driver to tailor the interior mood creating a relaxed atmosphere. In Sport-mode the driving set-up is changed; the paddle shifter is activated, suspension settings are tuned for performance driving, and controls are simplified allowing the driver to focus solely on the driving experience.
The main dashboard surfaces are positioned low, and away from the occupants, creating a unique sensation of openness. The HMI interface and the dedicated seating controls for the front seat passenger represent a new level of detail and functionality for a Mazda premium interior. Even though the interior volumes have been rearranged in this way there is a high level of sportiness to enhance the feeling of driving dynamics.
Mazda Shinari Concept represents the profound connection of driver and machine and the beginning of Mazda’s latest design theme ‘KODO-Soul in Motion’. Shinari exhibits a functional aesthetic that will continue to evolve as Mazda continues to define its next generation of vehicles.
The quest for a Mazda original and a Japanese original
With Mazda Shinari Concept as the first step, Ikuo Maeda, general manager of Mazda’s design division, aims to create original Mazda designs that will be recognized around the world. He summarizes his resolve in the following words:
‘My goal is to create designs that people can point to proudly and say, ‘This is a Mazda design’. There is no need for Mazda to build cars for people who are only concerned with ‘style’ and ‘trends’. Whether working on sports cars or compact cars, I have always worked to create designs that evoke an emotional response in people and I hope to keep doing the same as I remain fully committed to develop designs for people who love and admire cars. It is my personal belief that the only way to create designs that fundamentally connect with people and to create designs they love, is if the people creating them are absolutely passionate about cars and are willing to make that passion a firm policy for design expression.
‘Further, I consider it vitally important to have an awareness of Japanese originality in designing cars for Mazda. This is not merely about incorporating traditional Japanese elements into car design. I believe in reflecting the Japanese spirit in car designs as part of a subconscious practice. So, while I consider where this may lead in the future, my plan is to create cars that will be instantly recognizable as a Mazda, even when viewed at a distance. My ultimate goal is to create a brand presence that car lovers around the world recognize as representing both Mazda originality and Japanese originality. Future Mazda’s will move people physically and emotionally – this is ‘KODO – Soul of Motion”