Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today became the first automotive company in the industry to offer live chat functionality on a third-party Web site. Launched on Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com automotive Web site, users will be able to click on a text link that will direct them to a Mazda live chat shopping assistant, helping Internet-savvy car buyers get one step closer to sliding into the driver’s seat of a new Mazda vehicle – without ever leaving their home or office.

“This is a significant day for Internet customers shopping for a new vehicle,” said Rudy Privitelli, Group Manager, Relationship Marketing, MNAO. “The partnership between Kelley Blue Book and Mazda is very important and showcases the future direction of Mazda digital; we will expand our online footprint in new and unique ways to make the vehicle purchase process as easy and comfortable as possible for our customers.”

The Mazda Shopping Assistant (MSA) program is the first in the industry to provide potential buyers with an actual quote – from the customer’s choice of dealer – for the vehicle they have chosen, as opposed to other manufacturers’ programs that simply offer the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP). The MSA program connects consumers with Mazda Personal Shoppers who can answer specific product questions and provide personalized shopping experiences through live Web-chat sessions.

Through the help of these in-house Mazda employees, buyers can configure a vehicle, select a dealership, search vehicle inventory, acquire an actual dealer quote, schedule a sales appointment and get information about financing the Mazda vehicle of their dreams. Once a price is agreed upon between the customer and the dealer, the Personal Shopper arranges an appointment time at the dealership for final paperwork to be signed and the vehicle to be delivered.

“The new Mazda live chat functionality provides new-car shoppers with tremendous added value on kbb.com, giving them access to instantaneous information that they cannot access on any other third-party Web site,” said Tim Hand, Director of Advertising and Business Development – West, Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com. “This collaborative effort between kbb.com and Mazda offers an enhanced shopping experience that will help the new-car shopper make a more informed purchase decision with convenience and ease.”

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 and Mexico through nearly 900 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.

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Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today announced pricing for the 2009 MAZDA6 sports sedan will start at $18,550 for a MAZDA6 i SV, equipped with a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter I-4 engine and a six-speed manual transmission. Pricing for the 2009 MAZDA6 s, powered by a 273-horsepower V6 engine and six-speed Sport AT automatic transmission begins at $24,130. Destination charges for all 2009 model-year Mazda vehicles are $670, $715 in Alaska. The 2009 MAZDA6 will be available at dealers across the U. S. starting in late August, 2008.

The highly anticipated 2009 MAZDA6 is the first of Mazda’s “Zoom-Zoom Evolution” second-generation vehicles, building on a heritage of sports sedans and sports cars that no other manufacturer can boast, and bringing a combination of sports sedan, sophistication, build quality and product insight not currently found in the market.

“This is the most important new vehicle Mazda has launched in a decade,” said Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO. “Bringing any new car to market at a competitive price has always been critical, but seldom more-so than today. Customers are looking for that rare combination of style, dynamics, economy and a great price, and the all-new 2009 MAZDA6 delivers on all levels.”

The 2009 MAZDA6 will be available as a four-door sedan and in four trim levels: SV (I-4 models only), Sport, Touring and Grand Touring, and with varying levels of standard and optional equipment. All models, regardless of engine or trim grade, will include as standard equipment: air-conditioning, power windows, mirrors and door locks, anti-lock brakes (ABS), dynamic stability control, traction control, frontal and seat-mounted airbags for driver and front passenger, side air-curtain airbags for front and rear seat passengers and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

Power for the 2009 MAZDA6 will be available from an all-new Mazda-designed and developed MZR 170-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a 273-horsepower 3.7-liter V6, as used in the 2008 CX-9, Motor Trend’s 2008 Sport/Utility of the Year and the 2008 North American Truck of the Year. Transmission choices are a six-speed manual or five-speed Sport AT automatic with manual-shift mode (2.5-liter engine) or a six-speed Sport AT automatic with manual-shift mode (3.7-liter V6). I-4 models equipped with the Sport AT are certified at the ultra-clean SULEV level, and PZEV in California-emission states. All V6 models meet ULEV standards for all 50 states.

As it has been since the first MAZDA6 launched in 2002, all North American MAZDA6s will continue to be built at AutoAlliance International, in Flat Rock, Mich, a joint venture with partner Ford Motor Company.

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.

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Mazda will unveil a sporty, compact crossover concept vehicle, Mazda Kazamai, at the Moscow International Automobile Salon (MIAS) on August 26. Kazamai, which means “swirling crosswinds” in Japanese, expresses the powerful yet nimble image of a stylish and compact crossover. The concept is based on Mazda’s long-term vision for technology development, Sustainable Zoom-Zoom, which aims to provide a unique balance between sporty driving fun and superior environmental and safety performance. Kazamai will be joined at MIAS by the Russian debut of Mazda’s CX-9 SUV, which was crowned 2008 North American Truck of the Year in February.

The Kazamai concept further evolves Mazda’s ‘Nagare’ design language by fusing Nagare’s ‘flow’ design cues with aerodynamic proportions. The design features panel lines inspired by crosswinds in nature which evoke visual lightness. Its bold five-point grille, accentuated front wheel arches and sleek roof line, combined with large 22-inch wheels, lend it high emotional appeal.

Sporty to look at, Kazamai is meant to be spirited and fun to drive, with compact dimensions. Kazamai’s four-wheel drive powertrain will consist of a next-generation direct injection engine and a newly developed transmission. It is also aerodynamic, with an evolved lightweight body structure and enhanced the vehicle safety attributes. Were it to be built, Mazda’s latest show car would deliver exciting driving dynamics, frugal fuel consumption and greatly reduced CO2 emissions.

The Mazda Kazamai promises to be another ground-breaking show car from Mazda Design, winner of this year’s Grand Prix du Design in Paris. Created especially for the Moscow International Automobile Salon, it gives a good indication of where Mazda is going with a possible future compact crossover. And in Russia’s growing automotive market, compact SUVs are the second-largest segment, representing about 13 percent of all new car sales.

Complete information will be made available immediately after Mazda’s press conference at 10:15 a.m. local time, on August 26 at the Mazda stand.

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Mazda Motor Corporation has freshened its globally popular Demio compact car for the Japanese market. It goes on sale today at all Mazda, Mazda Anfini and Mazda Autozam dealerships nationwide. Manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (including consumption tax) range from 1,190,000 to 1,580,000 yen.

The updated Demio comes with refined interior and exterior styling. Two vivid exterior body colors — Passion Orange Mica and Golden Red Mica — have been newly added to the range. Inside, the standard black seats have been enlivened with a multistripe pattern, and the steering wheel features bright silver spokes.

Mazda’s ‘Audio-less’ specification is now standard across the entire model range, providing customers with the freedom to choose their desired audio system. This revision makes the base price for some of the available models even more affordable.

Main features of the freshened Mazda Demio:

Exterior:
- The range of exterior body colors has been expanded with Passion Orange Mica and Golden Red Mica. (Golden Red Mica was available for the special edition ‘Chiara’ Demio.)

Interior:
- New ‘Multi Black’ seats energize the interior with the addition of a multistripe pattern to the standard black seats. (For all grades except SPORT)
- The steering wheel has shiny silver spokes. (For all grades except SPORT)
- Tachometer with white background as standard. (For 13C-V and 13C grades)

Other features:- ‘Audio-less’ specification (the center panel has a free space) provides customers with the freedom to choose their desired audio system. (New to all grades except 13S; came as standard on original 13S grade.)
- A total of six-speakers are set in the front and rear doors and in the door mirror garnishes. (For SPORT grade)

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Later this year Mazda is introducing a new version of its unique rotary-engined, four?seater, four-door coupe – the Mazda RX-8 R3. Powered by an improved version of the 231ps twin-rotor engine, the new R3 will offer drivers a heightened experience with faster steering, chassis and engine responses, more refinement, more equipment and even greater value.

On sale from late August, the new Mazda RX-8 R3 will be priced at £24,995 (on?the?road) and, together with the Mazda MX-5, is sure to maintain Mazda’s position as ‘Britain’s favourite sportscar brand’ with a 25 per cent share of that market sector.

“New Mazda RX-8 R3 is the ultimate expression of Mazda’s brand DNA, demonstrating our determination to do things differently,” enthuses Mark Cameron, Mazda UK Marketing Director.

“The R3 delivers an even more focused and even more sporty driving experience, while retaining the original model’s many uniquely attractive technical innovations and adding numerous premium features.

“Thanks to its Sports Styling Pack, stiffer body shell, up-rated suspension, lower gearing, enhanced aerodynamics and new Recaro sports seats, the new Mazda RX-8 R3 is a truly exciting sportscar with immense driver appeal. It remains the perfect ‘flagship’ model for Mazda in the UK,” adds Cameron.

“The changes made for R3 have not detracted in any way from the unique selling points that made the Mazda RX-8 such a stunning car at its 2003 launch. RX-8 is still the world’s only rotary-engined production car, and that very rare creation, a genuine four-seater coupe. The free-style doors ensure good access and the car has the typical Mazda functionality, practicality and reliability that also make it a ‘use-me-every-day’ kind of car. With the new-look Sports Styling Pack for the RX-8 R3, Mazda is taking a step back towards its sportscar heritage, giving its coupe the appearance of a Japanese racing car,” declares Cameron.

The standard-fit Sports Styling Pack comprises a sport front bumper, side skirts and rear wing all finished in body colour. The new model’s front wings no longer feature the air-extractor vents behind the wheel arches and accommodate the turn-repeater light instead.

Mazda RX-8 has always had the appearance of a classic sportscar with a powerful?looking and dynamic exterior design. The new R3 version enhances this with a new front bumper design that has a larger five-point grille and oil cooling openings (below the front fog lights), that are nearly twice as large as on the original model for an even stronger look and improved cooling. Added to this are new front headlamps, new front fender designs, new twin round LED rear lamps and a redesigned rear bumper with larger exhaust pipes (now 90mm in diameter) – all executed with a beautiful attention to detail and a superb build quality that Mazda drivers have grown to expect.

The more aggressive appearance created by the revised styling is complemented by the all-new larger diameter 19-inch alloy wheels with ultra-low profile 40 section tyres. These extra-light wheels have five ‘rotor-shaped’ spokes and are finished in dark titanium.

At under £25,000, the new RX-8 R3 is still incredibly good value for a 146mph sportscar with the ability to reach 62mph in just 6.4 seconds. A previous model RX-8 of equivalent power, with leather trim and metallic paint would actually have cost more than the highly specified new RX-8 R3.

The new Mazda RX-8 R3 will be available in four new body colours – Aurora Blue mica, Crystal White pearlescent, Diamond Grey metallic and Sparkling Black mica – and two carry-over colours, Sunlight Silver metallic and Velocity Red mica. A solid paint finish is not available and whatever colour customers choose, there is no additional charge.

Rotary Powertrain – Enhanced Sports Car Performance

The uniquely high-revving RENESIS engine of the new RX-8 is evolved to deliver sharper responses and even more driving fun, although the outright power and torque are unchanged. Maximum power is 231ps at 7,500rpm and maximum torque is 211Nm at 5,500rpm.

Several measures have been taken to enhance engine lubrication in the new R3. The metering oil pump drive is now electromagnetic, rather than mechanical, and the pump is now mounted semi-directly at the supply position. The oil capacity is enlarged to 7.0-litres and a larger oil cooler air intake generates a 6°C drop in oil temperature at maximum engine speeds.

The rotary engine’s acclaimed smoothness and cultivation is enhanced by the introduction of a two knock sensor system, a first for Mazda, which improves the detection and prevention of knock. Drive shaft torsional rigidity has been increased by 30 per cent improving driving performance and reducing NVH.

The new RX-8 R3 also features variable ‘red-zone’ technology which limits revs at a cold start to protect the engine and allows full use of the car’s uniquely broad 9,000rpm rev-band when it is fully warmed.

Using a 700ps race-tuned four-rotor rotary engine, Mazda won the Le Mans 24 Hours race in 1991, beating hot favourites Porsche along the way. Mazda was the first and is still the only Japanese manufacturer to have achieved this classic motorsport feat.

Every new Mazda RX-8 R3 comes with a new six-speed manual gearbox developed from the transmission fitted in the smooth-shifting third-generation MX-5. This unit has better overall shift feel, making the new R3 even more fun to drive. It is fitted with a higher top ratio (0.787:1) for quieter, relaxed and fuel-efficient cruising – and R3 is fitted with a lower final drive ratio (4.777 compared to 4.444 for the previous model) for a sharper getaway from standstill and improved performance feel.

Improved Ride and Handling

The new RX-8 R3 continues to feature the front-midship engine, rear-wheel drive configuration of the original, delivering an ideal 50/50 weight distribution between the front and rear axles for fantastic handling characteristics. This acclaimed attribute is taken to a new level with improved overall body shell rigidity, steering feel and handling stability.

Mazda engineers have stiffened the body shell so that torsional (twisting) and flexural (bending) rigidity have been increased by 5.4 and 8.7 per cent respectively.

Revised steering and suspension deliver even better steering feel and driving stability. New damper, spring, suspension bush and stabiliser settings are introduced for enhanced ride comfort, while Bilstein® sports suspension and a urethane foam filled front suspension cross member ensure a more linear steering feel with a quieter and smoother ride for optimal comfort. The multi-link rear suspension geometry is fine tuned for increased stability.

Also contributing to the evolved handling of the new Mazda RX-8 is its exterior design, which is updated for improved aerodynamic performance and reduced lift, enhancing performance feel and high-speed stability. Underbody airflow is optimised as well by a redesigned and extended floor covering. All these modifications do not harm the aero Cd which remains a highly competitive 0.30.

Maximised premium equipment, maximised value

Marketed as a single model, the new R3 is so highly specified that no factory-fitted options are available and each car is fitted with more than a dozen items of equipment not previously available on an RX-8.

The interior of the new RX-8 is just as sporty and sophisticated as its predecessor, and adds new trim materials for a further improvement in quality look and feel. For the driver, the cockpit is even sportier with new Recaro sports front seats, a tachometer that now has a variable red-zone that rises as the engine comes to operating temperature, an instrument cluster with a newly developed colour to help minimise eye strain, and a new-style steering wheel.

In addition to the Sports Styling Pack, larger 19-inch diameter alloy wheels and Recaro front seats, every R3 comes with 12 new items such as cruise control, automatic light-sensing xenon headlamps, automatic rain-sensing wipers, an integrated Bluetooth® system and special R3-badged carpet mats.

Buyers will also enjoy the new BOSE® premium audio system with Centerpoint® surround sound and AudioPilot® noise compensation technology exclusively designed for R3 with an eight-channel digital amplifier. A 6-CD autochanger, nine speakers and an AUX auxiliary jack (for connecting an MP3 player), complete the audio system.

Enhanced ownership benefits

As well as benefiting from hyped performance feel and significantly improved NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness), new RX-8 R3 owners will find it easier to live with as an ‘everyday’ car.

Checking the oil level in the R3 is now easier. The oil dip-stick has been moved from the side of the engine to the top of the engine cover, for quick and easy checking of the oil level. Engine oil capacity has been increased to 7.0-litres. And owners can now enjoy driving the new Mazda RX-8 longer between fuel fill ups. It has a larger 65.4-litre petrol tank holding 3.6-litres more fuel.

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Mazda Motor Corporation has announced the sales launch of the newly developed Mazda Biante for the Japanese market. Mazda’s mid-size tall ‘high-roof’ minivan goes on sale today at all Mazda, Mazda Anfini and Mazda Autozam dealerships throughout Japan. Manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (including consumption tax) range from 2,199,000 to 2,650,000 yen for the front-wheel-drive (FWD) models. The target sales volume is 3,000 units a month.

The Mazda Biante was developed exclusively for the Japanese market under the concept, ‘Look, then experience the Zoom-Zoom Tall minivan as it expands your dreams.’ It offers a spacious and functional clean interior, distinctive, athletic styling, and superb driving performance that provide an enticing blend of security and excitement.

With the longest and widest interior dimensions in its class, the Biante boasts best-in-class*1 interior space. The cabin’s feeling of spaciousness is amplified by the ‘living mode’ function for the second row seats, which enables the seats to be adjusted backwards by an outstanding 863 mm. To ensure the interior is comfortable even with a full complement of passengers, the Biante features wide aperture dual sliding doors, a low floor in the passenger compartment and flexible seating arrangements. Additional features that provide a clean and comfortable cabin space include a ‘nanoe ion’ air purification system*2, an Alleru [Allergy] Buster*3 unit (a particulate filter to aid allergy sufferers), a deodorizer in the cabin ceiling and easy-wipe seat fabric.

The exterior design of the Biante is unlike anything seen in the minivan segment before. The styling is intended to maximize visibility of the surroundings and the feeling of interior space for passengers. These impressions are emphasized by the flowing interior fittings, expansive side windows with low sills, and large triangular A-pillar windows.

Driving performance attributes were based on Mazda’s long-term vision for technology development, Sustainable Zoom-Zoom, with the Biante being developed to provide a balance of driving pleasure with safety and peace of mind. Effective use of high tensile steel produced a highly rigid body, helping the Biante achieve top class aerodynamics, quietness and safety levels.

The direct-injection naturally aspirated engine*4 delivers excellent environmental performance, fuel economy and a powerful ride. The electronically controlled five-speed automatic*5 transmission ensures lively acceleration from low speeds.

*1 The most interior space in the 2,000 cc minivan class (3 rows of seats, domestically manufactured people carrier) based on cabin length, height and width. According to a survey conducted by Mazda in June 2008.
*2 ‘Nanoe’ is a trademark of Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd.
*3 Alleru [Allergy] Buster® is a registered trademark of Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. (Panasonic)
*4 Featured on the 20S and 20CS grades. The 23S grade has a 2.3-liter DOHC engine.
*5 Featured on the FWD models (The 23S grade also has a manual mode). 4WD models have an electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission.

Main features of the Mazda Biante

Cabin space

Development focused on attaining ‘space,’ ‘functionality’ and ‘cleanliness.’ The aim was to achieve top class comfort and an exciting experience for all of the occupants.

‘Space’

- The Biante has the most spacious interior in its class, with best-in-class cabin length (2,990 mm) and width (1,545 mm) as well as one of the tallest cabins (1,350 mm) in its segment. The spacious and open impression is emphasized by expansive side windows with low sills and large triangular A-pillar windows.
- By lowering the hip point of the front seats and raising the rear seats, and through use of compact saddle-type headrests for the second and third rows, the wide-open feeling is preserved even when there are many passengers.
- By sliding both the second and third rows of seats to their most rearward positions, second row passengers are afforded an impressive 863 mm of leg room. This ‘living mode’ arrangement creates an even greater sense of openness.

‘Functionality’

- The dual sliding doors have the widest aperture in the Biante’s vehicle class (according to Mazda’s assessment). Combined with one of the lowest floors available, access to the rear seats couldn’t be easier. For the first time, Mazda is offering power sliding doors with a touch sensor to prevent them from closing if anything is obstructing the opening (power sliding doors are standard on the 20S and available as a factory-installed option on other grades).
- The arrangement of the rear seats is extremely flexible. Options include ‘living mode’ for maximum leg room, ‘walkthrough mode’ for easy access to the third row seats (by splitting the second row seats and sliding them to either side), and a choice of luggage modes to match the size and shape of various cargos. For maximum convenience when rearranging the seats, levers are provided on both the front and back of the seats.
- The third row seat is a bench-type design which can be flipped up or down. This allows the cushion to be thicker and more comfortable than on a split seat. Other benefits of the full-width seat are greater rear visibility and more under-seat storage space.

‘Clean’

- The Biante comes equipped with a nanoe*2 ion generator that neutralizes bacteria, odors and allergens such as pollen. The ions are blown from the driver’s seat air conditioner vent to deodorize the cabin air (standard on four-wheel-drive (4WD) models, available as a factory-installed option on FWD models).
- The fully automatic air conditioner features an Alleru [Allergy] Buster*3 filter to remove allergens and viruses (standard on 4WD models, available as a factory-installed option on FWD models).
- The deodorizer mounted on the cabin ceiling absorbs and neutralizes tobacco, adhesive and other unwelcome odors. It has an extended lifecyle and does not require periodic replacement (standard on 4WD models, available as a factory-installed option on FWD models).
- The Biante’s ‘Cleanable seats’ are upholstered with easy-wipe fabric to prevent stains in the event of spillages (standard on the 23S and 20S grades).
- Anti-bacterial deodorizing seat covers, anti-bacterial deodorizing and waterproof seat back baskets, and deodorizing floor mats are available as dealer-installed options.

Design

The design was intended to be attractive at first glance and emphasize the Biante’s spaciousness and functionality under the concept, ‘space motivator.’

Exterior

- The vehicle’s exterior reflects Mazda’s new ‘Nagare’ design theme. The styling hints at the vehicle’s lively driving performance, while the broad interior space is enhanced through the continuously flowing lines that connect the front, sides and rear.
- At the front, a large brand symbol adorns the top part of the grille, which stretches to each side in a broad wing-shaped chrome extension. The lower fascia features a large version of Mazda’s hallmark five-point grille, expressing athleticism and stability. On the rear, stylish vertical reflectors built into the sides of the rear bumper embellish the Biante’s sporty image.
- Sharp headlight units that flow into the large triangular A-pillar windows create a distinctive side view. The tall window glass connects seamlessly all the way along the sides and hints at the spacious interior. Biante’s rising beltline expresses dynamism, while the stretched blister fenders above the front and rear wheels suggest dynamic stability and poise.
- Large LED rear combination lights carry the sweeping side lines around the back and convey width, a low center of gravity and stability. Chrome and transparent trim emphasizes the high quality levels. – Seven exterior colors are available, including soft ‘Lilac Silver Metallic’ and vivid ‘Chili Orange Mica’ (new and exclusive to the 23S grade).

Interior

- The broad meter cluster enhances the sense of depth and is positioned at the top of the dashboard towards its center. The design is intended to minimize the driver’s eye movement away from the road, and also enable passengers in the second and third row seats to easily see the instruments, making the ride more enjoyable for everyone.
- For seat and trim designs, customers may choose either the calm and airy light-beige or muscular and poised black. The seat designs also feature a light, flowing motif.
- The dashboard panel is black on the 20S and 20CS grades, and comes with a “hairline” finish (beige interior) or a wood grain finish (black interior) on the 23S grade.

Performance

The Biante was developed to provide driving pleasure through a combination of top class comfort, quietness and safety, and Mazda’s hallmark Zoom-Zoom performance.

- Extensive use of lightweight and rigid high-tensile steel in specific parts allows the Biante to achieve excellent body rigidity despite its large door apertures. This results in superior handling and ride quality. These weight reductions contribute to the Biante’s low fuel consumption.
- The specially developed suspension comprises MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link arrangement in the rear. The suspension provides a comfortable and assured ride even with a fully occupied cabin.
- Electric Hydraulic Power Assisted Steering provides precise feedback to the driver, for a natural feel. The steering gear ratio is the same as general passenger cars, to maintain the kind of light handling that drivers of sedans and other smaller vehicles will have little trouble adapting to.
- All four wheels have large disc brakes. The brakes respond reassuringly and linearly to movement of the brake pedal and provide precise braking even at highway speeds.
- Two engines are available. The MZR 2.0L DISI (direct injection spark ignition) engine provides an excellent balance of high torque, environmental performance and fuel economy, while the MZR 2.3L engine offers superb acceleration.
- The FWD models come with an electronically-controlled five-speed automatic transmission. Wide gear ratios improve low-speed acceleration and the higher fifth gear ratio assures better fuel economy when cruising. On models with the 2.3-liter engine, the transmission also features a manual mode for sportier performance. (4WD models are equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission.)
- The Biante offers excellent stability in crosswinds. This was achieved by optimizing the shape of the D-pillars and other areas to enhance the upper body aerodynamics, and careful design of the underbody aero parts. Mazda Biante has achieved a class-leading drag coefficient (Cd value) of 0.30.
- The highly rigid body, anti-vibration and sound damping materials, improved suspension oscillation characteristics, and an optimized tire structure effectively suppress road noise. The Biante also boasts one of the lowest levels of wind noise in its class due to the optimized shape of the door mirrors and A-pillars, clever use of cowling, and enhanced door rigidity.

Environmental and safety features

The Mazda Biante is meant to be enjoyed with family and friends, and comes equipped with various people- and eco-friendly features.

- Mazda’s Advanced Impact-energy Distribution and Absorption System consists of crumple zones to absorb impact energy and a triple-H body structure to preserve cabin integrity in the event of a collision. The system was developed to withstand impacts from various directions, including head-on collisions, side collisions and rear offset collisions at up to 80 kilometers per hour.
- Safety equipment to minimize injury to occupants in the event of a collision includes a crushable brake pedal, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags and anti-whiplash front seats. To minimize injury to pedestrians, the bonnet area features an energy absorbing structure.
- All model grades qualify as Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicles (SU-LEV), achieving exhaust emissions that are at least 75 percent lower than Japan’s 2005 regulations. Additionally, FWD models with the 2.0-liter engine meet Japan’s 2010 fuel economy standards plus 20 percent, making them eligible for Japan’s Green Tax exemptions.
- Highly recyclable polypropylene is used for both bumpers, the instrument panel and trim. The recyclability ratio for the entire vehicle is over ninety percent.*6

*6 Calculated based on the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association’s Guidelines on the Definition and Calculation of Recyclability Ratios in New Models (1999).

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Japan-Mazda Motor Corporation has announced that it is setting its sights on reducing the fuel consumption of Mazda vehicles sold globally by an average 30 percent by 2015. This determined commitment will entail a holistic approach which includes using lightweight technologies, the upgrade of almost all of Mazda’s gasoline engines, introducing a Smart Idle Stop System, a new gasoline rotary engine and new diesel engines worldwide. By 2015, Mazda will have renewed almost its entire powertrain lineup and, from 2011, through steadily developing safe, lightweight, new generation platforms aims to reduce the weight of its new vehicles by 100 kilograms or more.

Mazda is driven by its long-term vision to provide all its customers with first-rate environmental and safety features as well as driving pleasure. This means that Mazda owners are assured of driving cars that continue to provide the fun-to-drive feeling that will keep them coming back for more, while still having the peace of mind that their Mazda is environmentally-friendly and safe to drive.

But, this focus on the environment is not a new concept for Mazda. In the seven years from 2001 to 2008, the average fuel economy of Mazda vehicles sold in the Japanese market increased by approximately 30 percent. In 1991, the company embarked on a long-term project to develop vehicles powered by hydrogen technology, thereby participating in the search for sustainable transportation solutions, which still continues today.

Mazda saw its hydrogen powertrain efforts progress positively forward in June 2008 when the Mazda5 Hydrogen RE Hybrid received the green light from the Japanese government to begin testing on public roads. The Mazda5 Hydrogen RE Hybrid (known as the Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid in Japan) offers 40 percent more power and an extended hydrogen driving range of 200 kilometers. It will be available for commercial lease in Japan during the 2008 fiscal year. And, Mazda is already progressing well with the development of an all-new Hydrogen RE vehicle with dynamic performance equivalent to a 3.0-liter gasoline engine and a hydrogen range of 400 kilometers.

The next technological milestone for Mazda will be the introduction of the mass production version of its proprietary Smart Idle Stop System into one of its cars in 2009.

Mazda’s is the only idle stop system in the world that restarts the engine from idle by injecting fuel directly into the cylinder and igniting it to force the piston down, enabling a fast and quiet restart as well as an improvement in fuel economy by up to seven-to-eight percent. Demonstrating the extent of Mazda’s flexible R&D capability in developing alternative environmentally-friendly technologies, the system will initially appear in Japan and Europe; however, it will be rolled out worldwide.

Mazda’s future powertrain line-up has much to excite current and future Mazda customers. In 2009, an E85 fuel-compatible flex-fuel engine will be introduced into the Northern European and North American markets. From 2011 onwards, with new gasoline engines will incorporate next generation Direct Injection Spark Ignition and other systems to boost power by 15 to 20 percent and improve fuel economy by approximately 20 percent.

Beginning in 2011, Mazda plans to introduce new diesel engines worldwide that meet the strictest future exhaust gas regulations in each market. These engines will feature next generation direct injection technology, turbocharging systems and NOx reduction technology, which will enhance fuel economy by 20 percent and produce cleaner exhaust gases, while still providing a true Zoom-Zoom experience.

A fundamental part of Mazda’s heritage, the gasoline rotary engine, will be substantially upgraded in the early 2010s. Currently referred to as the 16X, the next rotary engine will offer substantially improved performance and economy through use of Direct Injection Spark Ignition and high-speed combustion technology, enfolded in new rotary dimensions.

Mazda’s environmental efforts are not only focused on its cars. The plants in which they are built have also received a lot of attention to ensure that they contribute to a sustainable future.

In FY2007, the volume of CO2 emissions from production activities in Japan was reduced by 15.4 percent compared to FY1990 levels. Expressed as CO2 emissions volume per unit of revenue, the reduction was 24 percent.

In 2005, Mazda was the first auto manufacturer to introduce a Three Layer Wet Paint System which reduces VOC emissions by 45 percent and CO2 emissions by 15 percent. Mazda now plans to introduce a more advanced version of this unique Paint System in 2009 as it finalizes the development of an innovative water-based paint technology that reduces VOC emissions by a further 57 percent without increasing CO2 emissions. Producing around 25 percent fewer CO2 emissions than common water-based paint, this new technology is intended to make Mazda’s paint shops the cleanest in the world.

Mazda is also making itself known in the area of carbon neutral bioplastics. Developed in collaboration with government, industry and academia, Mazda intends to expand the applications of this new source of eco-friendly material. Already, bioplastics are used in the new Mazda5 Hydrogen RE Hybrid and, in June 2008, Mazda commenced the Mazda Bioplastic Project to develop a bioplastic made from non-food-based cellulosic biomass. The project aims to have the bioplastic ready for use in vehicles by 2013.