Mazda CX-7

The CX-7 is a mid-size crossover SUV model from Mazda, the production version of the MX-Crossport concept car. The CX-7 is built in Hiroshima, Japan, starting in early 2006. The CX-7 was shown publicly for the first time at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show in January. Production officially began on February 20 at Mazda's Ujina#2 factory in Hiroshima. The CX-7 went on sale in spring 2006 as a 2007 model. It is also Mazda's first mid-size SUV since the Navajo was discontinued in 1994. The CX-7 receives an all-new platform instead of sharing the Ford/Mazda CD3 platform used by the larger Mazda CX-9/Ford Edge/Lincoln MKX crossovers as well as the Mazda6. It uses the front suspension of the Mazda MPV minivan, with the rear suspension from the Mazda5. Many of the all wheel drive components come from the Mazdaspeed6. It shares its turbocharged engine with the Mazdaspeed6. It uses a 6-speed automatic transmission. The CX-7 currently slots between the Tribute and the CX-9. Power comes from the same 2.3 L straight-4 MZR engine used in the Mazdaspeed3 and Mazdaspeed6 coupled with a 6 speed Aisin automatic transmission, and tuned to produce 244 hp or 182 kW (Australian model 175 kW) at 5000 RPM and 258 ft·lbf (350 N·m) of torque at a low 2500 rpm, 99% of the maximum torque is available to 5000 rpm. The MZR 2.3L DISI turbo engine found in the Mazdaspeed3 and Mazdaspeed6 has been retuned in the North American-Spec CX-7 to deliver torque at a lower RPM for less turbo lag off the line. This was achieved thanks to a redesigned, smaller KO4 turbocharger. UK-Spec CX-7's feature the same, larger KO4 turbocharger and transmission found in the Mazdaspeed line.

The CX-7 features fully independent suspension, four-wheel ventilated disc brakes with standard anti-lock brakes, stability control and traction control, and a choice of either front wheel drive or Mazda's Active Torque-Split all wheel drive system. With the Active Torque-Split system, two computer-controlled magnetic clutches feed up to 50% of the engine's torque to the rear wheels. The Australian combined cycle official fuel economy is 11.5 L/100 km (24.6 mpg-imp; 20.5 mpg-US). Fuel Economy varies among different tests, owners, and models, but drivers report a typical range between 10.0 L/100 km (28.2 mpg-imp; 23.5 mpg-US) and 18.0 L/100 km (15.7 mpg-imp; 13.1 mpg-US).
As of the 2010 model, there are four trim levels (model):
* iSV is the base version, priced from US$21,550
* iSport is the next version, priced from $24,385
* sTouring is the upscale version, priced from US$26,135
* sGrand Touring is the top version, priced from US$26,935
* Only Touring and Grand Touring models are available with All-Wheel Drive and only these two trims are offered with the 2.3L turbocharged engines while the SV and Sport trims come with a 2.5L MZR naturally-aspirated DOHC four-cylinder.
Canadian models and pricing:
* GS Front-Wheel Drive - $32,095 CDN
* GS All-Wheel Drive - $34,095 CDN
* GT Front-Wheel Drive - $35,295 CDN
* GT All-Wheel Drive - $37,295 CDN
Australian models (AWD only) pricing:
* "CX-7 Classic" Base trim starts at AUD $40,610
* "CX-7 Luxury" Top trim starts at AUD $46,460

This is an update to the original. The exterior design features revised front and rear fascias with the front adopting the larger five-point grille design similar in appearance to the recently redesigned RX-8, MX-5 and Mazda3/Axela. The new interior features redesigned gauges with blackout meters that feature three-dimensional dials, a 3.5 inch super-twisted nematic (STN) monochrome and 4.1-inch thin-film transistor (TFT) colour Multi Information Display (MID), (positioned at the top of the instrument panel), Bluetooth compatibility, and a Blind Spot Monitoring System. The car was unveiled at the 2009 Canadian International Auto Show. The diesel version now includes a manual transmission, and has been on sale in Europe since 2009. Engine choices include 2.5 litre MZR 4-cylinder engine that produces 161 hp (120 kW) and 161 lb·ft (218 N·m) of torque and the same MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo engine from before. Transmission is a 5-speed automatic for the 2.5 and a 6-speed automatic for the 2.3 DISI Turbo engine.The CX-7 reused the name RX-7, (which was a sports car that was discontinued and replaced by RX-8), but the first letter, 'R' ('R' means rotary engine), was changed to 'C' ('C' means crossover SUV).

here are some pictures of Mazda CX-7

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2012 Mazda 3

var addthis_config = {"data_track_clickback":true}; Mazda has dropped the first photos and details on its 2012 model year Mazda3 sedan and five-door hatchback models that are making their world premiere at this week's 2011 Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto. In addition to receiving a cosmetic pick-me-up, the refreshed Mazda3 gains the Japanese firm's new Skyactiv-G gasoline engine

READ MORE - 2012 Mazda 3

2011 Mazda MX-5 ice racing

Mazda held an MX-5 race on ice recently with teams from around the world comprising journalists, TV fans and readers competing in Sweden.The four-hour race featured 20 of the roadsters, all fitted with studded tires, battling it out on a three-mile circuit composed of snow and ice. The competitors not only battled each other, but chilly temperatures as low as -24 degrees Fahrenheit. The

READ MORE - 2011 Mazda MX-5 ice racing

2012 Mazda3 with Modest Styling Tweaks and New Skyactive-G Engine Debuts in Toronto

Mazda has dropped the first photos and details on its 2012 model year Mazda3 sedan and five-door hatchback models that are making their world premiere at this week's 2011 Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto. In addition to receiving a cosmetic pick-me-up, the refreshed Mazda3 gains the Japanese firm's new Skyactiv-G gasoline engine and Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission. The automaker

READ MORE - 2012 Mazda3 with Modest Styling Tweaks and New Skyactive-G Engine Debuts in Toronto

New Mazda MX-5 Special Edition

Earlier today we told you about the Australian market Mazda MX-5 Special Edition offers a sport suspension kit and a few touches of exclusive style. Well, now we learn that this model will be offered in the United States in a limited edition of 750 units, but at a much lower price than the American version starts at $ 30.925 with a manual transmission and $ 31.525, when equipped with six-speed

READ MORE - New Mazda MX-5 Special Edition

Mazda to Lease All-Electric Mazda2 in Japan

Mazda today announced that it's developing an electric vehicle based on the Demio subcompact – known as the Mazda2 in Europe and North America –, which will be available for lease in Japan starting from spring 2012.

Details about the upcoming zero-emissions model are limited right now, with the official press release only stating that the car's driving range is expected to be around 200 km (124 miles) and that it will be leased mainly to local government bodies and fleet customers.

Mazda’s foray into the EV segment focuses on developing electric cars suitable for customers with short city commutes. Through the aforementioned lease program, the Japanese maker hopes to gain valuable information about usage requirements and electric drive technologies.

The acquired experience will also be used to improve the base technologies of the brand, as announced in the Building Block Strategy. Certain systems sourced from EVs such as regenerative braking tech, will make their way into conventional models, which will also benefit from the firm's SKYACTIV technologies, announced at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show.

For now, the company’s core values are going to be centered around the internal combustion engine, but in the long run, customers can expect to find an increasing number of eco-friendly technologies fitted to Mazda models.

By Csaba Daradics

*Note: Standard Mazda2 / Demio featured in photos

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READ MORE - Mazda to Lease All-Electric Mazda2 in Japan

Mazda to Lease All-Electric Mazda2 in Japan

Mazda today announced that it's developing an electric vehicle based on the Demio subcompact – known as the Mazda2 in Europe and North America –, which will be available for lease in Japan starting from spring 2012.

Details about the upcoming zero-emissions model are limited right now, with the official press release only stating that the car's driving range is expected to be around 200 km (124 miles) and that it will be leased mainly to local government bodies and fleet customers.

Mazda’s foray into the EV segment focuses on developing electric cars suitable for customers with short city commutes. Through the aforementioned lease program, the Japanese maker hopes to gain valuable information about usage requirements and electric drive technologies.

The acquired experience will also be used to improve the base technologies of the brand, as announced in the Building Block Strategy. Certain systems sourced from EVs such as regenerative braking tech, will make their way into conventional models, which will also benefit from the firm's SKYACTIV technologies, announced at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show.

For now, the company’s core values are going to be centered around the internal combustion engine, but in the long run, customers can expect to find an increasing number of eco-friendly technologies fitted to Mazda models.

By Csaba Daradics

*Note: Standard Mazda2 / Demio featured in photos

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READ MORE - Mazda to Lease All-Electric Mazda2 in Japan

Mazda5 is both very affordable and fuel

Because it is a compact minivan, the Mazda5 is quite smaller than the usual set of minivans on our roads and streets. It has already presented and proved itself to the market as a vehicle that is able to transport passengers and cargo while providing performance and an unforgettable driving experience. Its parts may not look like those Mazda RX 7 performance parts you find in the market, but its own set do give the Mazda5 a different and unique appeal. It looks sportier than most minivans in the market which is greatly enhanced by its own sporty features and parts. Plastic covers that are clear enough to show the colored taillights give the Mazda5 an even better look.

As for the accommodations, both Mazda and Kia are at par with each other. In the third row Kia has noticeably more legroom, headroom, and knee room. On the other hand Mazda has a hard plastic trim piece that is right over the head of the passengers. In terms of seating comfort, Mazda provide slightly more comfort since its seats are higher off the floor approximately 270 millimeters compared to the 230 mm on Kia.

Mazda5 is both very affordable and fuel

READ MORE - Mazda5 is both very affordable and fuel

Mazda5 is both very affordable and fuel

Because it is a compact minivan, the Mazda5 is quite smaller than the usual set of minivans on our roads and streets. It has already presented and proved itself to the market as a vehicle that is able to transport passengers and cargo while providing performance and an unforgettable driving experience. Its parts may not look like those Mazda RX 7 performance parts you find in the market, but its own set do give the Mazda5 a different and unique appeal. It looks sportier than most minivans in the market which is greatly enhanced by its own sporty features and parts. Plastic covers that are clear enough to show the colored taillights give the Mazda5 an even better look.

As for the accommodations, both Mazda and Kia are at par with each other. In the third row Kia has noticeably more legroom, headroom, and knee room. On the other hand Mazda has a hard plastic trim piece that is right over the head of the passengers. In terms of seating comfort, Mazda provide slightly more comfort since its seats are higher off the floor approximately 270 millimeters compared to the 230 mm on Kia.

Mazda5 is both very affordable and fuel

READ MORE - Mazda5 is both very affordable and fuel

2011 The Mazda5 Review

The maker of Mazda radiator, Mazda and Kia seem to use a different method when it comes to calculating the relative space available however one thing is for sure with the third row deployed, there is no cargo space in either vehicle. But take note once the third row is down the cargo space quadruples. And with the center row seat flat, the Rondo opens up to 73.4 cubic feet. The Mazda 5 was able to match this space however its roofline may slightly limit its overall height.

The 2011 Mazda5 is both very affordable and fuel- efficient with several features that guarantee safety as well as comfort. Impressive new features include pack- and- pinion steering with Electro- Hydraulic Power Assist Steering system and Anti- Lock Brake System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist.

2011 The Mazda5 Review

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2011 The Mazda5 Review

The maker of Mazda radiator, Mazda and Kia seem to use a different method when it comes to calculating the relative space available however one thing is for sure with the third row deployed, there is no cargo space in either vehicle. But take note once the third row is down the cargo space quadruples. And with the center row seat flat, the Rondo opens up to 73.4 cubic feet. The Mazda 5 was able to match this space however its roofline may slightly limit its overall height.

The 2011 Mazda5 is both very affordable and fuel- efficient with several features that guarantee safety as well as comfort. Impressive new features include pack- and- pinion steering with Electro- Hydraulic Power Assist Steering system and Anti- Lock Brake System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist.

2011 The Mazda5 Review

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Mazda Minagi Compact SUV Concept Officially Revealed

While it has been reported by several sources as a “leak”, we eventually found the official release and photos of the new Mazda Minagi Concept. Planned teaser or not, it’s certain that the design study will make its world debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show in March, providing us a preview of the firm's upcoming compact SUV model, rumored to carry the CX-5 moniker.

The Minagi Concept will also showcase Mazda's next-generation of fuel-efficient powertrain and chassis technologies, branded under the [new] SKYACTIV name.

The Japanese firm didn’t reveal any details on the concept's specifications, simply stating that the Minagi "is equipped with a SKYACTIV engine and SKYACTIV transmission fitted to a SKYACTIV-Body and chassis that merge comprehensive weight reduction with the assurance of ample safety features."

Aside from the Minagi, the Japanese automaker’s stand will also feature separate technology exhibits as well as the Mazda Shinari sports saloon study.

By Csaba Daradics

Main Exhibits at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show

Reference exhibits

Mazda MINAGI (world premiere)

Mazda SHINARI (European premiere)

Technology exhibits

New Mazda SKYACTIV-G direct injection gasoline engine

New Mazda SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engine

New Mazda SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission

New Mazda SKYACTIV-MT manual transmission

Vehicles currently on sale

Mazda2, Mazda3, Mazda5, Mazda6, Mazda MX-5, Mazda CX-7, Mazda BT-50

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READ MORE - Mazda Minagi Compact SUV Concept Officially Revealed

Mazda Minagi Compact SUV Concept Officially Revealed

While it has been reported by several sources as a “leak”, we eventually found the official release and photos of the new Mazda Minagi Concept. Planned teaser or not, it’s certain that the design study will make its world debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show in March, providing us a preview of the firm's upcoming compact SUV model, rumored to carry the CX-5 moniker.

The Minagi Concept will also showcase Mazda's next-generation of fuel-efficient powertrain and chassis technologies, branded under the [new] SKYACTIV name.

The Japanese firm didn’t reveal any details on the concept's specifications, simply stating that the Minagi "is equipped with a SKYACTIV engine and SKYACTIV transmission fitted to a SKYACTIV-Body and chassis that merge comprehensive weight reduction with the assurance of ample safety features."

Aside from the Minagi, the Japanese automaker’s stand will also feature separate technology exhibits as well as the Mazda Shinari sports saloon study.

By Csaba Daradics

Main Exhibits at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show

Reference exhibits

Mazda MINAGI (world premiere)

Mazda SHINARI (European premiere)

Technology exhibits

New Mazda SKYACTIV-G direct injection gasoline engine

New Mazda SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engine

New Mazda SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission

New Mazda SKYACTIV-MT manual transmission

Vehicles currently on sale

Mazda2, Mazda3, Mazda5, Mazda6, Mazda MX-5, Mazda CX-7, Mazda BT-50

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READ MORE - Mazda Minagi Compact SUV Concept Officially Revealed

Mazda5 MPV gets New 115HP 1.6-liter Turbo Diesel in Europe, Returns 5.2lt/100km - 45 MPG

Targeting better fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions, Mazda has announced that the European market Mazda5 minivan is now available with a new 1.6-liter 4-cylinder diesel engine, which replaces the previous 2.0-liter unit.

“For the engine line-up of the new Mazda5, we placed emphasis on environmental performance and fuel economy. This aim led us to use Mazda’s 2.0-liter direct-injection petrol engine with i-stop, and to replace the 2.0-liter diesel engine with a newly developed 1.6-liter turbo diesel unit that leads the class in low CO2 emission levels”, said Hideki Matsuoka, Program Manager Mazda5.

Thanks to its smaller displacement and aluminum alloy block, the new powerplant is a whopping 120 kg (265 lbs) lighter than the 2.0-liter diesel it replaces, without sacrificing performance. In fact, with 115HP and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque, the turbocharged four-pot produces +5HP, while using 14.8% less fuel in the combined cycle (5.2 lt/100 km or 45 US mpg) and emitting 13.2 percent less CO2 (138 g/km).

The new engine is also Euro5 compliant. It does this by using a low compression ratio (16:1) and an efficient exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler and bypass system. Other features of the MZ-CD 1.6 unit are the piezo injectors, variable-geometry turbocharger and maintenance-free diesel particulate filter (DPF) system.

The Mazda5 MZ-CD 1.6 accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 13.7 seconds and can reach a top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph).

All Mazda5s come as standard with power-adjustable side mirrors, manual air conditioning, driver seat height adjustment, power windows, power door locks and four-speaker radio. The safety equipment list includes six airbags, ABS, dynamic stability control (DSC), electric brake-force distribution (EBD), brake assist and traction control (TCS).

By Csaba Daradics

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READ MORE - Mazda5 MPV gets New 115HP 1.6-liter Turbo Diesel in Europe, Returns 5.2lt/100km - 45 MPG