Mazda MX Sportif Concept (2003)
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
2003 Mazda Demio Stardust Pink Limited Edition
The Demio was redesigned in 2002 on the DY platform. The Demio name continued in Japan, while the rest of the world dropped Demio and other names in favor of Mazda2. The badge-engineered Ford version is no longer made, as Ford began importing the Fiesta into Japan. It is based on Ford's Fiesta on the Global Ford B3 platform which is based on Mazda's DY platform. The car is produced for Europe at a Ford plant in Valencia, Spain. North American sales of the Mazda2 are expected to start in 2007, where other subcompacts (Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa, Honda Fit) will also debut. It will fill the gap in Mazda's subcompact line since the Mazda 323 hatchback was discontinued for North America in the mid-1990s.
All Demios come with ABS and EBD, and stability control is optional. An innovative feature offered in Japan is e-4WD, a hybrid car-type system which uses an electric motor to power the rear wheels of this front wheel drive vehicle when needed. In the Demio, this system is used only as a traction aid, not for increased fuel economy as in most other vehicles.
Three trim levels are available, each targeted by Mazda at a different demographic:
Cozy for single women with special paint colors and an optional canvas sunroof
SPORT is for young men
Casual focuses on young families
The Mazda2 is sold with a variety of Z-family engines:
1.3 L ZJ-VE I4
1.5 L ZY-VE I4
1.25 L MZI
1.4 L MZI
1.6 L MZI
1.4 L MZ-CD Diesel
1.4 L MZ-CD Diesel
All Demios come with ABS and EBD, and stability control is optional. An innovative feature offered in Japan is e-4WD, a hybrid car-type system which uses an electric motor to power the rear wheels of this front wheel drive vehicle when needed. In the Demio, this system is used only as a traction aid, not for increased fuel economy as in most other vehicles.
Three trim levels are available, each targeted by Mazda at a different demographic:
Cozy for single women with special paint colors and an optional canvas sunroof
SPORT is for young men
Casual focuses on young families
The Mazda2 is sold with a variety of Z-family engines:
1.3 L ZJ-VE I4
1.5 L ZY-VE I4
1.25 L MZI
1.4 L MZI
1.6 L MZI
1.4 L MZ-CD Diesel
1.4 L MZ-CD Diesel
2003 Mazda 2
With this newly developed model, Mazda has entered the second phase of its model renewal program. With the new brand design, high levels of functionality and intelligent technology, the compact Mazda2 follows in the successful tyre tracks of the Mazda6.
A sporty design, a love of detail and agile handling characteristics coupled with spirited engines - are the attributes that have made the Mazda6 so successful. Since its launch, many people now see the Mazda brand in a completely new light. The launch of the Mazda2 with similar qualities in another market segment, proves that the process of renewal at Mazda is continuing and will go on to affect all vehicle segments. Lewis Booth, President of the Mazda Motor Corporation, put it best: "The Mazda2 embodies every aspect of our new product philosophy. Exactly like the Mazda6, it also represents the zoom-zoom feeling that is the new spirit of our brand."
Design: Sporty and Appealing
A strong family resemblance is written in the face of the new Mazda2. The brand-typical five-point grille, the striking contours of the bonnet, the integrated headlights with their dynamic design, and the sporty front spoiler with large air intakes is reminiscent, and not completely by accident, of the front end design of the car's larger brother. Seen from the side, Mazda2's belt line rising towards the back of the car, minimal body overhangs, and restrained sill moulding provide an appealing and confident appearance. The original rear end design of the car is dominated by the hatch, which reaches down low into the bumper area, and the elegant styling of its rear light clusters, which wrap around into the side panels. Extremely small shut line gaps, made possible through newly developed assembly techniques, also contribute to Mazda2's attractive exterior and to its optimal aerodynamic shape.
Interior: Comfortable and Practical
Despite its compact exterior design, Mazda2's high quality and inviting interior is a spatial miracle. There is sufficient room for five adults to ride in comfort, due in part to a very generous head and shoulder room. The driver's seat is adjustable horizontally and in height (210 mm and 38 mm respectively) so that men and women of every body size can find just the right driving position. Newly developed, anatomically-correct seat frames provide all passengers with fatigue-free seating on long trips.
A variety of storage compartments provide room for smaller items. For larger items, Mazda2 possesses a luggage compartment that is unusually large for this class, with a volume of 267 litres. With the back seats folded down, Mazda2 has an expanded load capacity of 1,044 litres with a completely flat floor. The front passenger seat backrest can also be folded flat for transporting especially long items. Mazda2's extremely low load sill, combined with its large wide-opening hatch, ensures easy loading and unloading.
Powertrains: Modern and Spirited
The engine line-up available for the new Mazda2 meets all power output requirements in this class. Three modern, 16-valve, double overhead camshaft (DOHC) petrol engines - a 1.25-litre MZI (55 kW/75 hp), a 1.4-litre MZI (59 kW/80 hp) and a 1.6-litre MZI (74 kW/100 hp) - are available; together with a second-generation common-rail 1.4-liter MZ CD diesel engine (50 kW/68 hp). These engines guarantee spirited driving fun, combined with low fuel consumption and emissions. All petrol engines meet the Euro-Stage IV fuel emission standard.
As an alternative to the precise and easy-to-shift manual five-speed transmission - available for all four engines - the 1.4-litre petrol and the common-rail diesel engines are also available with an automatic shift manual (ASM) transmission, which combines the advantages of an automatic transmission with the flexibility and low fuel consumption of a manual transmission.
Chassis: Stability with Outstanding Dynamic Attributes
Mazda engineers concentrated much of their efforts on the bodyshell and chassis design. Intensive computer simulations and practical tests resulted in an extremely rigid body structure. For example, rear axle torsional stiffness has been improved by 45% over the previous Mazda Demio model. The extremely stable body structure and the efforts put into developing the chassis, steering and suspension systems have resulted in
outstanding driving dynamics. The new Mazda2's suspension is firm and sporty, yet comfortable to drive. This attribute is enhanced by the extensive measures taken by Mazda engineers to improve sound and vibration insulation, to fine-tune the chassis and to provide powerful brakes and the perfect distribution of brake pressure. Such dynamic attributes make it clear that the new Mazda2 is not only good-looking.
Safety: Optimum Active and Passive
Mazda2 features a strong passenger safety cell. An ingenious body structure design distributes impact energy equally through the car's cross-members and side beams to help prevent deformation of the passenger cell. If Mazda2 is involved in a serious head-on collision, the brake pedal decouples and is pulled away from the driver's legs, which reduces the overall risk of leg injuries. Further safety features include front airbags, along with side and head airbags that protect passengers in the front and back seats in case of side impact. Doors and interior trim are made of energy absorbing upholstery. ISOFIX brackets for child seats are standard in the back seat.
The best possible active safety is provided by an agile front-wheel drive chassis, well damped suspension and (optional) ABS, electronic brake distribution (EBD) and the (optional) dynamic stability control (DSC).
A sporty design, a love of detail and agile handling characteristics coupled with spirited engines - are the attributes that have made the Mazda6 so successful. Since its launch, many people now see the Mazda brand in a completely new light. The launch of the Mazda2 with similar qualities in another market segment, proves that the process of renewal at Mazda is continuing and will go on to affect all vehicle segments. Lewis Booth, President of the Mazda Motor Corporation, put it best: "The Mazda2 embodies every aspect of our new product philosophy. Exactly like the Mazda6, it also represents the zoom-zoom feeling that is the new spirit of our brand."
Design: Sporty and Appealing
A strong family resemblance is written in the face of the new Mazda2. The brand-typical five-point grille, the striking contours of the bonnet, the integrated headlights with their dynamic design, and the sporty front spoiler with large air intakes is reminiscent, and not completely by accident, of the front end design of the car's larger brother. Seen from the side, Mazda2's belt line rising towards the back of the car, minimal body overhangs, and restrained sill moulding provide an appealing and confident appearance. The original rear end design of the car is dominated by the hatch, which reaches down low into the bumper area, and the elegant styling of its rear light clusters, which wrap around into the side panels. Extremely small shut line gaps, made possible through newly developed assembly techniques, also contribute to Mazda2's attractive exterior and to its optimal aerodynamic shape.
Interior: Comfortable and Practical
Despite its compact exterior design, Mazda2's high quality and inviting interior is a spatial miracle. There is sufficient room for five adults to ride in comfort, due in part to a very generous head and shoulder room. The driver's seat is adjustable horizontally and in height (210 mm and 38 mm respectively) so that men and women of every body size can find just the right driving position. Newly developed, anatomically-correct seat frames provide all passengers with fatigue-free seating on long trips.
A variety of storage compartments provide room for smaller items. For larger items, Mazda2 possesses a luggage compartment that is unusually large for this class, with a volume of 267 litres. With the back seats folded down, Mazda2 has an expanded load capacity of 1,044 litres with a completely flat floor. The front passenger seat backrest can also be folded flat for transporting especially long items. Mazda2's extremely low load sill, combined with its large wide-opening hatch, ensures easy loading and unloading.
Powertrains: Modern and Spirited
The engine line-up available for the new Mazda2 meets all power output requirements in this class. Three modern, 16-valve, double overhead camshaft (DOHC) petrol engines - a 1.25-litre MZI (55 kW/75 hp), a 1.4-litre MZI (59 kW/80 hp) and a 1.6-litre MZI (74 kW/100 hp) - are available; together with a second-generation common-rail 1.4-liter MZ CD diesel engine (50 kW/68 hp). These engines guarantee spirited driving fun, combined with low fuel consumption and emissions. All petrol engines meet the Euro-Stage IV fuel emission standard.
As an alternative to the precise and easy-to-shift manual five-speed transmission - available for all four engines - the 1.4-litre petrol and the common-rail diesel engines are also available with an automatic shift manual (ASM) transmission, which combines the advantages of an automatic transmission with the flexibility and low fuel consumption of a manual transmission.
Chassis: Stability with Outstanding Dynamic Attributes
Mazda engineers concentrated much of their efforts on the bodyshell and chassis design. Intensive computer simulations and practical tests resulted in an extremely rigid body structure. For example, rear axle torsional stiffness has been improved by 45% over the previous Mazda Demio model. The extremely stable body structure and the efforts put into developing the chassis, steering and suspension systems have resulted in
outstanding driving dynamics. The new Mazda2's suspension is firm and sporty, yet comfortable to drive. This attribute is enhanced by the extensive measures taken by Mazda engineers to improve sound and vibration insulation, to fine-tune the chassis and to provide powerful brakes and the perfect distribution of brake pressure. Such dynamic attributes make it clear that the new Mazda2 is not only good-looking.
Safety: Optimum Active and Passive
Mazda2 features a strong passenger safety cell. An ingenious body structure design distributes impact energy equally through the car's cross-members and side beams to help prevent deformation of the passenger cell. If Mazda2 is involved in a serious head-on collision, the brake pedal decouples and is pulled away from the driver's legs, which reduces the overall risk of leg injuries. Further safety features include front airbags, along with side and head airbags that protect passengers in the front and back seats in case of side impact. Doors and interior trim are made of energy absorbing upholstery. ISOFIX brackets for child seats are standard in the back seat.
The best possible active safety is provided by an agile front-wheel drive chassis, well damped suspension and (optional) ABS, electronic brake distribution (EBD) and the (optional) dynamic stability control (DSC).
2002 Mazda MX Sport Runabout Concept
Mazda will unveil its brand DNA and a design philosophy in small car concept form at the Geneva Motor Show on Tuesday March 5. The world premiere of the Mazda MX Sport Runabout demonstrates the standards Mazda aims to achieve in small car lifestyle packaging and class-leading driving dynamics.
Through Mazda's new brand-driven direction, the eye-catching MX-Sport Runabout cleverly combines distinctive design, exceptional functionality and outstanding performance and handling, in-line with the attributes already incorporated in the highly-praised Mazda6 range and set to appear in all future production models.
Mazda MX Sport Runabout proposes a new standard in the class, superbly combining athletic styling and innovative interior quality with excellent packaging, dynamic performance, class-leading handling and ride comfort.
The interior is a lifestyle environment with quality levels that are exceptional in this market segment and through clever packaging, the five-door MX Sport Runabout delivers maximum space and flexibility within compact overall dimensions, providing an outstanding blend of comfort, functionality and top-level safety.
In creating the MX Sport Runabout, Mazda ensured that it meets and exceeds customer requirements in terms of its ease-of-use and flexibility to suit active lifestyles.
Even though the compact body measures just 3,900mm in overall length and is just 1,720mm wide, the 2,500mm wheelbase provides the passenger room and storage space of a much larger car - allowing four adults to travel in complete comfort. The remarkable roominess and open, airy feeling is enhanced by a large glass area and a body height of 1,550mm.
In designing the MX Sport Runabout, Mazda has taken careful note of the widespread praise it has received from Demio customers, who appreciate being able to load two mountain bikes after folding the rear seat. As a result, this latest concept model is designed with the same capability thanks to a non-protruding suspension tower design and a one-touch rear seat folding mechanism - as well as a low load height and a host of other neat solutions to stowage requirements.
To deliver an optimum mix of outstanding performance, economy and environmental friendliness, the MX Sport Runabout is powered by a newly-developed, state-of-the-art petrol engine. The 1.5-litre in-line four-cylinder DOHC S-VT unit is mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.
Mazda Head of Design, Moray Callum explained: "The challenge on the exterior of the MX Sport Runabout has been to create the right balance of emotional Mazda design and the visual communication of its world-class package.
"This has been achieved by graphically emphasising the cabin area while maintaining the surface language, which is recognisably Mazda; the result is a design that is highly efficient and full of character. The short overhangs and the emphasis on the wheel relationship to the body, expressing the sense of stability expected in a Mazda, enhance the overall stance of the vehicle.
"With the interior, we have given the occupants an atmosphere where they can literally 'feel at home'. Using architectural design principles, the interior emphasises the efficient use of space, at the same time expressing comfort and an inviting atmosphere. This is achieved through a careful balance of form, materials, textures and colours.
"The interior has all the expected and required functions of a modern family car - however, they have been integrated with an emphasis on familiarity to what the customer uses everyday at home, such as the influence of modern audio units on the centre panel."
The MX Sport Runabout is instantly recognizable as a Mazda by the 'family face' with its five-point grille and distinctive light cluster design, which echoes that of the Mazda6.
With large-diameter wheels positioned well into the corners of the body, the MX Sport Runabout conveys a clear sense of stability, while a newly-developed suspension system provides a careful balance between ride comfort and secure handling.
To reflect the fun-to-drive message of the MX Sport Runabout, the concept model's bodywork is finished in bright and distinctive yamabuki orange while the light beige upholstery and interior trim with chocolate lowlights enhances the light, open feel of the interior.
Mazda President Mark Fields commented: "We've shown the exciting way forward for Mazda with our stunning range of midsize Mazda6 models. Now, with the MX Sport Runabout, we are showing how the distinctive styling, outstanding functionality and fun-to-drive dynamics transfer to the small car segment.
Through Mazda's new brand-driven direction, the eye-catching MX-Sport Runabout cleverly combines distinctive design, exceptional functionality and outstanding performance and handling, in-line with the attributes already incorporated in the highly-praised Mazda6 range and set to appear in all future production models.
Mazda MX Sport Runabout proposes a new standard in the class, superbly combining athletic styling and innovative interior quality with excellent packaging, dynamic performance, class-leading handling and ride comfort.
The interior is a lifestyle environment with quality levels that are exceptional in this market segment and through clever packaging, the five-door MX Sport Runabout delivers maximum space and flexibility within compact overall dimensions, providing an outstanding blend of comfort, functionality and top-level safety.
In creating the MX Sport Runabout, Mazda ensured that it meets and exceeds customer requirements in terms of its ease-of-use and flexibility to suit active lifestyles.
Even though the compact body measures just 3,900mm in overall length and is just 1,720mm wide, the 2,500mm wheelbase provides the passenger room and storage space of a much larger car - allowing four adults to travel in complete comfort. The remarkable roominess and open, airy feeling is enhanced by a large glass area and a body height of 1,550mm.
In designing the MX Sport Runabout, Mazda has taken careful note of the widespread praise it has received from Demio customers, who appreciate being able to load two mountain bikes after folding the rear seat. As a result, this latest concept model is designed with the same capability thanks to a non-protruding suspension tower design and a one-touch rear seat folding mechanism - as well as a low load height and a host of other neat solutions to stowage requirements.
To deliver an optimum mix of outstanding performance, economy and environmental friendliness, the MX Sport Runabout is powered by a newly-developed, state-of-the-art petrol engine. The 1.5-litre in-line four-cylinder DOHC S-VT unit is mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.
Mazda Head of Design, Moray Callum explained: "The challenge on the exterior of the MX Sport Runabout has been to create the right balance of emotional Mazda design and the visual communication of its world-class package.
"This has been achieved by graphically emphasising the cabin area while maintaining the surface language, which is recognisably Mazda; the result is a design that is highly efficient and full of character. The short overhangs and the emphasis on the wheel relationship to the body, expressing the sense of stability expected in a Mazda, enhance the overall stance of the vehicle.
"With the interior, we have given the occupants an atmosphere where they can literally 'feel at home'. Using architectural design principles, the interior emphasises the efficient use of space, at the same time expressing comfort and an inviting atmosphere. This is achieved through a careful balance of form, materials, textures and colours.
"The interior has all the expected and required functions of a modern family car - however, they have been integrated with an emphasis on familiarity to what the customer uses everyday at home, such as the influence of modern audio units on the centre panel."
The MX Sport Runabout is instantly recognizable as a Mazda by the 'family face' with its five-point grille and distinctive light cluster design, which echoes that of the Mazda6.
With large-diameter wheels positioned well into the corners of the body, the MX Sport Runabout conveys a clear sense of stability, while a newly-developed suspension system provides a careful balance between ride comfort and secure handling.
To reflect the fun-to-drive message of the MX Sport Runabout, the concept model's bodywork is finished in bright and distinctive yamabuki orange while the light beige upholstery and interior trim with chocolate lowlights enhances the light, open feel of the interior.
Mazda President Mark Fields commented: "We've shown the exciting way forward for Mazda with our stunning range of midsize Mazda6 models. Now, with the MX Sport Runabout, we are showing how the distinctive styling, outstanding functionality and fun-to-drive dynamics transfer to the small car segment.
2002 Mazda B2500
With the new Mazda B2500, Mazda is launching a pick-up improved from the ground up, which is further proof of Mazda's expertise in the globally expanding off-road and pick-up segments. With four body styles, two powerful engines and the choice of rear or engageable all-wheel drive transmissions, the new Mazda B2500 is perfect for both commercial and private use.
Pick-up customers are a special breed. They are not looking for your everyday car, but a very special kind of vehicle. Robust technology combined with the flexibility of carrying hard to transport items off-road if need be, is first and foremost on their minds when purchasing a mode of transportation. But the decision to buy a pick-up is based on emotional reasons as well: for the way it looks, for example, and that it stands out in the otherwise monotonous flow of automobiles on European roads and motorways.
The Mazda B2500 fulfilled all the demands of pick-up customers when the new model appeared four years ago. But times have changed and automobiles with them. To adress new customer needs, the Mazda B2500 has undergone some significant changes, including an additional new body style called Freestyle Cab. This version is a Stretch Cab with no B-pillar and a centre-opening door system, which allows for extreme ease of access to the inside of the vehicle, and especially to the back seats.
Other stylistic changes that make the new Mazda B2500 different than its predecessor include modified bumpers, headlights and radiator grill.
The interior has a newly designed steering wheel, dashboard and door trim. The seats are completely new as well. With strengthened contours, thicker upholstery and new fabrics, they not only increase passenger comfort but contribute to a friendly and upbeat interior environment. All these modifications give the Mazda B2500 an attractive and modern feel, and make it another perfect expression of the new Zoom-Zoom Mazda image.
There are also changes under the cool styling of the body. The chassis of the new Mazda B2500 includes several newly-optimised details that work together to enhance the vehicle's road holding ability. Modifications to the steering system, for example, provide for more precise steering and better overall handling. The brake system has been further improved, and now includes two-piston brake callipers that shorten Mazda B2500's braking distance and improve the durability and running life of the brake pads. An anti-lock brake system (ABS) is available as well, as is electronic brake distribution (EBD) which automatically provides optimal brake pressure to the front and back axles.
The powertrain line up remains the same. The base engine is a spirited 2.5-litre four cylinder turbo-diesel. Depending on driver taste, it can be ordered as a 62 kW/84 PS rear-wheel drive version, or in an 80 kW/109 PS engageable all-wheel drive version. New to the Mazda B2500's drive train is an improved five-speed transmission that, thanks to optimised gear synchronization, is as easy to shift as a passenger car.
Safety of the new Mazda B2500 has been improved as well. Active safety features now include optional ABS with EBD, and higher luminous efficiency headlights. Passive safety has been improved through structural optimisation.
A stronger body structure for the new Freestyle version was one of the main focuses of development. Despite its centre-opening door system with no B-pillar, the Freestyle version meets all European crash standards. Accidentally opening one of the back doors while driving is impossible in the new Mazda B2500, since the back doors cannot be opened from the inside of the vehicle if the front doors are closed.
Pick-up customers are a special breed. They are not looking for your everyday car, but a very special kind of vehicle. Robust technology combined with the flexibility of carrying hard to transport items off-road if need be, is first and foremost on their minds when purchasing a mode of transportation. But the decision to buy a pick-up is based on emotional reasons as well: for the way it looks, for example, and that it stands out in the otherwise monotonous flow of automobiles on European roads and motorways.
The Mazda B2500 fulfilled all the demands of pick-up customers when the new model appeared four years ago. But times have changed and automobiles with them. To adress new customer needs, the Mazda B2500 has undergone some significant changes, including an additional new body style called Freestyle Cab. This version is a Stretch Cab with no B-pillar and a centre-opening door system, which allows for extreme ease of access to the inside of the vehicle, and especially to the back seats.
Other stylistic changes that make the new Mazda B2500 different than its predecessor include modified bumpers, headlights and radiator grill.
The interior has a newly designed steering wheel, dashboard and door trim. The seats are completely new as well. With strengthened contours, thicker upholstery and new fabrics, they not only increase passenger comfort but contribute to a friendly and upbeat interior environment. All these modifications give the Mazda B2500 an attractive and modern feel, and make it another perfect expression of the new Zoom-Zoom Mazda image.
There are also changes under the cool styling of the body. The chassis of the new Mazda B2500 includes several newly-optimised details that work together to enhance the vehicle's road holding ability. Modifications to the steering system, for example, provide for more precise steering and better overall handling. The brake system has been further improved, and now includes two-piston brake callipers that shorten Mazda B2500's braking distance and improve the durability and running life of the brake pads. An anti-lock brake system (ABS) is available as well, as is electronic brake distribution (EBD) which automatically provides optimal brake pressure to the front and back axles.
The powertrain line up remains the same. The base engine is a spirited 2.5-litre four cylinder turbo-diesel. Depending on driver taste, it can be ordered as a 62 kW/84 PS rear-wheel drive version, or in an 80 kW/109 PS engageable all-wheel drive version. New to the Mazda B2500's drive train is an improved five-speed transmission that, thanks to optimised gear synchronization, is as easy to shift as a passenger car.
Safety of the new Mazda B2500 has been improved as well. Active safety features now include optional ABS with EBD, and higher luminous efficiency headlights. Passive safety has been improved through structural optimisation.
A stronger body structure for the new Freestyle version was one of the main focuses of development. Despite its centre-opening door system with no B-pillar, the Freestyle version meets all European crash standards. Accidentally opening one of the back doors while driving is impossible in the new Mazda B2500, since the back doors cannot be opened from the inside of the vehicle if the front doors are closed.
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