THE 2010 MAZDASPEED3

It’s an unwritten law of nature. When two parents have kids, more often than not, their offspring will be quite different. One will have Dad’s eyes, another, Mom’s nose. Some will be mild-mannered, happy and always smiling, and others, well – they will be wicked. Enter the all-new 2010 MAZDASPEED3. From a distance, it may look like its MAZDA3 siblings, with its five-point grille and sleek lines, but one minute behind the wheel will prove otherwise.

For 2010, the MAZDASPEED3 blends the five-door functionality of the all-new MAZDA3 5-Door with bolder, more aggressive styling and exhilarating performance to meet the needs of driving enthusiasts with active lifestyles. Carrying forward the award-winning MZR 2.3-liter DISI Turbo engine, the new MAZDASPEED3 builds on the legendary performance of the original while adding a fresh new look and even better handling.

Expressive and Dynamic Design

The design of the all-new MAZDASPEED3 evolves the model’s visual identity to create a sportier, more aggressive appearance. The result is a more emotional design that takes the sporty, agile nature of the all-new MAZDA3 5-Door to a new level.

The MAZDASPEED3 is easily distinguished from its siblings. Start at the front, where a lower air dam and round fog lights frame an organic, metallic-black grille. The hood now houses an intercooler scoop to improve charge air cooling, and the front fenders are flared to contain the car’s wider tires.

From the side view, the new 18 x 7.5-inch aluminum wheel design is unique, but modeled closely on the deeply sculpted, expressive, and very lightweight 19-inch forged wheels on the RX-8 R3. Sculpted side skirts and a lower stance also give away the MAZDASPEED3′s sinister motives. From the rear, larger dual exhaust tips, a rear valance painted the same metallic black as the grille, and a larger, roof-mounted rear wing give it away.

Nagare-inspired design defines the exterior and continues into the cabin, which features color coordination and materials chosen to excite the driver and passengers every time they take a seat. Black is the keynote color employed throughout the interior, while the seats and trim fabric have an organic red graphic design. This MAZDASPEED3-exclusive design is distributed throughout, with red stitching enhancing the sporty interior character on the steering wheel, seats, door trim, shift lever boot, and center armrest.

The dashboard of the new MAZDASPEED3 is designed to give a roomy feel while displaying critical information up high and deep into the dashboard, closer to the driver’s field of vision and focal point. The instrument cluster for the all-new MAZDASPEED3 also includes a new LED turbo boost gauge positioned between the meters.

The driver’s seat is especially critical in any performance car. Without solid lateral support, a driver loses the focus, control and precision needed to really enjoy driving. The all-new MAZDASPEED3 seats are designed to provide that support without compromising everyday comfort.

Exhilarating Performance

The all-new MAZDASPEED3 continues to use Mazda’s award-winning MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo powerplant. Delivering 263 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 280 lb.-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm, it made the original MAZDASPEED3 the most powerful front-drive performance car under $25,000, and remains one of the strongest engines in its class today.

With no need to increase power, the development team focused on harnessing that power more effectively. Engine output itself is more consistent, thanks to the hood-mounted intercooler scoop that not only improves intercooler airflow over the grille-mounted intercooler duct of last-year’s car, but also frees up grille space for a fresh-air duct to feed the engine’s intake. Breathing cooler air improves efficiency, boosting both real-world power and fuel economy.

The gear ratios in the compact, three-shaft gearbox have also been revised, with 2nd through 5th gear all getting slightly taller to make better use of the engine’s abundant torque. The new gear spacing and refined engine calibration are focused on providing more linear, seamless power delivery. The advanced torque management system, which minimizes torque steer by adjusting torque output based on gear position and steering angle, has also been recalibrated. The new gear ratios allow more of the engine’s torque to be utilized in the lower gears while still keeping torque steer at a manageable level.

Handles Like a Mazda

The new MAZDASPEED3′s body shell benefits from a focused effort at strengthening the most important parts of the structure. The use of high-strength and ultra-high strength steel in the safety structures like bumpers and side impact beams has nearly doubled, making these areas both stronger and lighter. The suspension mounting points all gain rigidity from the use of thicker sheet metal in high-stress areas and extensive use of weld bonding, a hybrid joining technique combining conventional spot welds with structural adhesives. Torsional stiffness around the rear suspension mounts is improved roughly two percent, while deflection around the rear liftgate is reduced nearly 40 percent.

In general, a stiffer structure allows firmer suspension tuning without compromising ride comfort. In the case of the new MAZDASPEED3, that firmer suspension was accomplished with stiffer springs, higher damping rates, and revised mounting points for the front stabilizer bar that reduce bushing deflection and increase the bar’s effectiveness. Combined with wider, higher-grip 225/40R18 Dunlop SP Sport 2050 performance tires, the MAZDASPEED3′s new suspension tuning marries unflappable control with a comfortable everyday ride.

Steering feel and response have been improved through more rigid 3-point mounting of the steering rack, compared to the previous 2-point system. The hydraulic power steering pump has also been removed from the engine and is now driven by an electric motor. This electro-hydraulic power assisted steering (EHPAS) reduces parasitic drag on the engine, lowers power steering fluid temperature, and gives much more flexibility for the development team to dial in steering feel. Rigid high-speed steering feel can now be accomplished without suffering heavy steering at low speeds

Brake feel in hard braking has been improved through the upgrade of the brake assist from mechanical to a new electronically-controlled system. Brake assist shortens stopping distance in panic-stop situations by applying full brake pressure during the moment of hesitation that most drivers exhibit in the instant after first hitting the brakes. The new electronically-controlled system is better at differentiating between true panic-stop situations and, for example, braking hard for turn 11 at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

Features and Options – Everything You Want, Nothing You Don’t Need

The 2010 MAZDASPEED3 is loaded with all the goodies a driving enthusiast wants, but without anything that would add undue weight. Standard features and equipment include variable intermittent windshield wipers, roof-mounted aerodynamic antenna, illuminated vanity mirrors, electroluminescent gauges, aluminum pedals, MAZDASPEED -branded black/red cloth seats, door trim, interior trim, floor mats, scuff plates and black/red decoration panel; and dual-zone climate control. An available MAZDASPEED3 Tech Package offers advanced keyless entry, push-button start, a compact full-color navigation system, Sirius satellite radio with six months of free service, a perimeter alarm, six CD changer, and BOSE® Centerpoint® surround sound – a five-channel surround system engineered cooperatively with BOSE® that enhances the listening experience thanks to a digital amplifier, noise cancellation technology and 10, strategically placed, premium speakers. Because the weight and structural penalties would compromise the pure driving experience, the MAZDASPEED3 is not available with a moonroof option.

The MAZDASPEED3 is the third model in the 2010 MAZDA3 lineup, joining the MAZDA3 5-door, which made its North American debut at the North American International Auto Show earlier this year, and the 4-door sedan, which made its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show last November.

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 more than 850 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario, Canada, and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

2010 MAZDASPEED3 AT A GLANCE:

Exterior

* Design based on the all-new MAZDA3 5-Door, evolved for a sportier, more aggressive appearance
* New air intake to optimize intercooler efficiency
* Front fender and front bumper designs exclusive to MAZDASPEED
* The front grille and lower bumper sections share the same black metallic paint finish
* Wedge-shaped, curving character lines on the side panels and side under spoiler for a lower-looking center of gravity
* New, large floating rear spoiler
* New 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels with the same three-dimensional design theme as the Mazda RX-8 R3 wheels

Interior

* Driver-oriented dashboard design gives a roomy, wrap-around, sporty feel
* New tachometer with red MAZDASPEED logo
* New LED turbo boost gauge between the driver meters
* Semi-bucket front seats with superior fit
* Seat upholstery in black base color with a red graphic design and red stitching
* Black interior color with an organic red graphic design throughout the cabin and red stitching for the steering wheel, shift boot, door trim, center console

Powertrain

* Acclaimed MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo producing high power of 263 horsepower at 5,500 rpm, and 280 ft.-lb. of torque at 3,000 rpm
* In-cylinder cooling effect from direct injection realizes ca. 10 percent more torque compared to conventional-intake turbo engines
* Top speed of 155 mph
* The world’s first single-nanotechnology catalytic converter helps to reduce the amount of precious metals needed
* Advanced boost pressure control suppresses sudden torque peaks for linear torque development
* Left and right drive shafts optimized to minimize torque steer
* Torque-sensing conical limited-slip differential (LSD) standard
* Specially-designed, 6-speed manual transmission with wider gear ratio than before
* Triple-cone synchronizers for first, second and third gears and a double-cone synchronizer for fourth gear for optimized gearshift operation
* Low-viscosity transmission fluid reduces shift effort when the engine is cold

Chassis & Safety

* Special reinforcements inside the front cowl member gussets and a large tunnel member for increased body stiffness
* Modified coil spring rates for MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension
* Larger diameter stabilizers with longer mount spans achieve greater roll linearity
* Special dampers with increased damping strength contribute to higher roll stiffness
* Now three highly rigid steering gear mount bushings instead of two used on the previous model for improved response to steering wheel action
* New wider Dunlop 18-inch tires with improved grip, more rigid sidewalls and damping strength for more direct steering feel and a stronger one-with-the-car feel
* Electro-hydraulic power assisted steering (EHPAS)
* Large diameter 12.6-inch ventilated front disc brakes and 11-inch rear solid discs, 8+9-inch tandem brake booster and 1-inch large diameter master cylinder for powerful and stable braking
* Newly-introduced electronic brake assist added to four-wheel ABS and DSC as standard equipment

The three seater Mazda AZ Wagon goes on sale in Japan later this year with a price tag starting at $15,780. Read more in the press release below.

Mazda Releases Redesigned AZ-Wagon i in Japan

- New special needs model provides improved user-friendliness and greater peace of mind -

HIROSHIMA, Japan-Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the launch of its redesigned Mazda AZ-Wagon i, a special needs vehicle equipped with a sloping access ramp for wheelchairs. The new model is based on the fully redesigned AZ-Wagon micro-mini that was launched in Japan in September 2008. Sales commence today at all Mazda, Mazda Anfini, and Mazda Autozam dealerships throughout Japan.

The new AZ-Wagon i has a wide opening at the rear and a spacious cabin with a high roof. Other enhancements designed for wheelchair users include a new three-point seatbelt and a handrail on both sides of the rear cabin, as standard equipment. Additionally, user-friendliness is also improved for caregivers by a sloping entry/exit ramp that is gentler than the previous model.

Main features of the all-new AZ-Wagon i

- New three-point seatbelt for wheelchair users (the previous model was equipped with a two-point seatbelt)
- A handrail on both sides of the rear cabin provides extra support and comes as standard equipment
- Easier wheelchair access due to the lower floor and gentler sloping ramp
- Anti-theft immobilizer fitted as standard equipment
- The prices include vehicle and accessories. The AZ-Wagon i is exempt from Japan’s consumption tax.
- A separate recycling fee of 11,640 yen is necessary in addition to the manufacturer’s suggested prices listed above.
- The four-seat version has a folding rear seat; the three-seat version has no rear seat.

Mazda RX-7 Concept

According to World Car Fans, the RX-7 has a next-generation RX-7 well into its development phase and is also working on a next-gen RX-8 which will carry the name one digit further and be called the RX-9. Both models will feature an update of their rotary engine, a The new 16X twin-rotor engine will come with an 800cc x 2 configuration (the current is a 654 cc x 2) and will better fuel consumption by about 20 percent all while generating 270 hp.

2010 Mazda3 MPS

2010 Mazda3

Also following in the path of Mazda face lifts is the 2010 Mazda3 MPS, ready for its debut at the Geneva Auto Show. A new four-cylinder MZR 2.3-liter turbocharged engine produces 0-100 km/h acceleration of 6.1 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph. Check out full details in the 2010 Mazda3 Press Release.

2010 Mazda3 MPS

Sharing the spotlight in Geneva is the next-generation Mazda 3 MPS, one of the world’s most powerful front-wheel drive compact cars. It takes the all-new Mazda 3 hatchback as its base and raises it to new levels of driving excitement with an updated MZR 2.3-litre DISI turbo petrol engine, increased body shell rigidity and an evolved suspension. To this it adds exclusive design cues and materials to deliver a next-generation compact flagship that is even more fun to own and drive than the current model.

On top of its high performance level – one of the best in the category – the all-new Mazda 3 MPS was developed according to Mazda’s long-term vision for technology development. Advanced Mazda engine and catalytic converter technologies mean the new model has an optimized power delivery, uses less fuel, and has cleaner emissions than the previous Mazda 3 MPS model.

Design – A More Expressive and Dynamic Design

The design theme for the all-new Mazda 3 called on the development team to evolve the model’s visual identity to create a sportier, more aggressive appearance. The end result is a more emotionally appealing design that takes the sporty, agile compact nature of the all-new Mazda 3 hatchback to a new level of sporty refinement.

Exterior Design

Front end

A new air intake for the intercooler is introduced to the centre of the all-new Mazda 3 MPS bonnet, hinting at the power underneath. The front fender and front bumper designs are exclusive to the MPS, while subtle intonation added to the surface and character lines give the exterior an expressive and dynamic flair. The front grille and lower bumper sections share the same black metallic paint finish. These are framed by cylindrical bi-xenon headlamps and round fog lamps, to underscore the car’s premium character (standard or option, depending on market).

Wheels and tyres

Mazda introduces all-new 18-inch (18 x 7.5J) aluminium alloy wheels designed exclusively for the Mazda 3 MPS using the same design theme as the Mazda RX-8 wheels. These have a strong, three-dimensional form that helps the car look nimble and aggressive when seen from the side.

Powertrain – Exhilarating Driving and Euro Stage V Compliance

The power and easy-to-control torque characteristics of the new Mazda 3 MPS turbo petrol engine are combined with an optimised gear ratio that ensures smooth shift operation for sporty driving. This is matched to a stiffer body, a suspension system with greater damping strength, Mazda’s electro-hydraulic power assisted steering (EHPAS), as well as specially tuned brakes. Together, they deliver a high-performance package with precise, controllable handling, and powerful braking that is fun to drive on a daily basis.

Engine – high-performance DISI technology

The all-new Mazda 3 MPS is powered by Mazda’s MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo, a high-power inline 4-cylinder petrol engine. This acclaimed engine has been further refined and now delivers a maximum output of 191 kW/260 PS at 5,500 rpm and the same generous maximum torque of 380 Nm at 3,000 rpm than the current model. This represents one the world’s highest level of performance in a front-engine front-wheel drive sports compact.

High-performance compact

Pairing direct-injection with a turbocharger allows the engine to achieve performance that is on par with a larger displacement engine. Realising the right balance between lightweight and high rigidity through the effective use of high-tensile steel sheeting – including 1,480 MPa ultra-high tensile steel – means the new MPS body shell easily supports the top speed of 250 km/h and acceleration of 0-100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds.

6-speed manual transmission

The transmission of the new Mazda 3 MPS uses a compact, three-shaft design that keeps the overall length the same as a 5-speed manual transmission. It uses a wide gear ratio setting that can fully exploit the wide torque band of the DISI Turbo engine, with a sixth gear that contributes to a quieter ride and improved fuel economy when driving at high speed. Each gear is set to a higher speed total gear ratio than on the previous model. Of particular note is the natural feel of shifting between first and second gear as the car picks up speed, as well as the smooth feel of successive shifts while accelerating.

Triple-cone synchronizers for first, second and third gears and a double-cone synchronizer for fourth gear optimize the amount of strength required to make shifts and establish the right balance between a short, responsive stroke and pleasing feel to gearshift operation. In addition, the transmission uses low-viscosity fluid, which greatly reduces the effort required for shifting when the engine is cold.

Mazda 3 MPS dimensions and specifications for EU

* Dimensions
o Overall length: 4,505 mm
o Overall height: 1,460 mm
o Overall width: 1,770 mm
o Wheelbase: 2,640 mm
o Treads (front/rear): 1,535 mm/1,520 mm
o Luggage capacity: 300 l with Bose® System
* Drive train: FWD
* Engine: MZR 2.3-litre DISI Turbo
* Displacement: 2,261 cm3
* Bore x stroke: 87.5 mm x 94.0 mm
* Fuel tank capacity : 60 l
* Max. output : 260 PS (191 kW) at 5,500 rpm
* Max. torque: 380 Nm at 3,000 rpm
* Fuel consumption
o Combined: 9.2 l / 100 km
o Urban: 13.5 l / 100 km
o Extra urban: 7.5 l / 100 km
o Emissions ranking: Euro Stage V
* Exhaust system: single-nanotechnology
* Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission
* Differential: Torque-sensing Limited Slip Differential
* Performance
o Max. speed: 250 km/h
o 0-100km/h (EU): 6.1 s
* Steering: Electro-hydraulic power assisted system
* Turn lock-to-lock: 2.7
* Min. turning circle: 11 m
* Suspension, front: MacPherson strut
* Suspension, rear: Multi-link
* Coil spring rate, front: D26.8 N/mm
* Coil spring rate, rear: D29.9 N/mm
* Dampers, front: Twintube
* Dampers, rear: Monotube
* Stabilizer diameter, front: 26 mm
* Stabilizer diameter, rear: 25 mm
* Front brake type, diameter: Ventilated discs, 320 mm
* Rear brake type, diameter: Solid discs, 280 mm
* Coefficient of drag: 0.32 Cd
* Brake booster: 8″ + 9″ tandem booster & large 1″ diameter master cylinder
* Tyres, wheels: Dunlop 225/40 R18, 18×7.5J

All-new Mazda3
At a Glance*

* Global sales of the first-generation Mazda3 achieved year-on-year increases from launch to the present day
* Five years after the sales start, total sales have surpassed 1.8 million units, making it the top selling Mazda model
* The Mazda3 has won a total of 90 automobile awards around the globe since launch in 2003
* All-new Mazda3 to be launched in Europe in spring 2009
* All-new Mazda3 characteristics blend sporty driving and dynamic design, together with top class environmental and safety performance

Exterior

* Chief designer Kunihiko Kurisu describes the all-new Mazda3 as: “Remaining faithful to an inherited identity while evolving the design to make it more expressive.”
* Powerful emotional design with a richer expression and more dynamic stance
* Two distinct body styles – hatchback and saloon
* A new purposeful face that integrates the front grille’s lower section into the 5-point grille to further distinguish the unique character of the Mazda brand
* Aerodynamics improved with drag coefficient (Cd) of only 0.28 (sedan) and 0.30 (hatchback), some of the best in the C-segment
* All design elements focus on and flow into the centre to express power and dynamism
* Subtly curving lines along the sides and a wedge-shaped character line extending from the prominent front fenders communicate dynamism that makes the model appear to be about to run and reflect a design theme shared with the Mazda2 and Mazda6
* The bold curve and low centre of gravity of the protruding rear shoulders on the 5-door hatchback inherit the distinctive ‘Mazda3 look’ established by the previous model
* The saloon’s refined flowing lines feature a coupe-like silhouette
* Functional beauty as symbolized by the design of the airflow management system
* Minimal gaps between body panels signify solid quality

Interior

* Benefits from a 6-11 % noise reduction vs the previous generation, thanks to aerodynamic work, increased suspension rigidity, optimal positioning of vibration dampening material, increased bodyshell and panel rigidity
* Sporty and sophisticated interior design that combines a sense of roominess with a dashboard turned to the driver for sense of oneness with the car
* Use of soft grained surface material on the upper section of the dashboard combines with minimal join lines to achieve a vastly improved look of interior quality
* Practical central console with sliding armrest
* Gear shift lever placed closer to driver for easier shifting
* State of the art ergonomics and HMI with ‘zone layout’ for less distraction from the road
* New multi information display (MID)
* New interactive lighting control and illumination entry system
* New sport seats with optional 3 memory function
* 10-speaker Bose® premium surround sound system with Audiopilot2® noise compensation and centerpoint® surround system, and a hands-free system for Bluetooth-equipped cell phones and mobile audio players

Powertrains

* New MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel with high and standard power versions both reaching Euro Stage 5 emission standard. Mazda unique technology Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) offering reduced regeneration times
o High power version: 136 kW/185 PS at 3,500 rpm and 400 Nm of maximum torque at just 1,800-3,000 rpm and combined fuel consumption of 5.6 l/100 km (CO2: 149 g/km)
o Standard power version: 110 kW/150 PS at 3,500 rpm and 360 Nm at 1,800-2,600 rpm and combined fuel consumption of 5.4 l/100 km (CO2: 144 g/km)
* MZ-CD 1.6-litre turbo diesel with Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) produces 80kW/109 PS at 4000 rpm and 240 Nm of maximum torque at just 1750 rpm, and uses 0.3 litres less than the previous generation with a combined fuel consumption of 4.5 l/100 km (CO2: 119 g/km)
* MZR 2.0-litre petrol produces 110kW/150 PS at 6,500 rpm and maximum torque of 187 Nm at 4,000 rpm, with five-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift mode
* MZR 1.6-litre petrol produces 77 kW/105 PS at 6000 rpm and maximum torque of 145 Nm at 4000 rpm, and uses 0.6 litres less than the previous generation with a combined fuel consumption of 6.3 l/100 km (CO2: 149 g/km)
* New catalyst that uses single nanotechnology for both 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre petrol engines

Chassis & Safety

* Despite larger dimensions and more equipment, new Mazda3 weighs up to 15 kilos less
* Evolved C-platform running gear for better balance between the sports/comfort ratio
* 17 percent increase in use of high and ultra-high strength steels vs. outgoing model
* Double-digit increases in texural and torsional rigidity for improved handling and safety
* Newly evolved MacPherson strut front suspension
* Newly evolved multilink rear suspension
* Electro-hydraulic power assist steering introduced to all versions for a light, but stable steering feel and reduced fuel consumption
* ABS, EBD, brake assist, traction control system (TCS) DSC, front, side, and curtain airbags standard in all markets
* High-intensity Bi-xenon headlamps, pivoting Adaptative Front Lighting System, Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), Rear Vehicle Monitoring (RVM) and tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and parking sensor system (available as options)

*Preliminary data, subject to homologation