The Detroit Free Press laid out ten industry-redefining cars, and we're, well, a little perplexed. This is the definition, in the paper's own words: "a handful of new vehicles that debut over the next 12 months may shape the future of automakers around the world. They come in all shapes and sizes. Some break new ground for their manufacturers. Others aim to reassert companies' dominance in market segments they created."
We don't believe they are ranked in any order, but first up is the Audi A4, with a "beautifully balanced chassis" and bargain price that could put the shakes into everyone from BMW to Acura. The Chevy Traverse might outsell the GMC Acadia, Saturn Outlook, and Buick Enclave combined. The new Dodge Ram will be ultra smooth, the new Ford F-150 will be more frugal. And so on...
While all of these are worthy accomplishments, none of them -- not even the 2010 Prius nor the 2010 Lincoln MKT -- appears to have any claim to redefining the industry. But follow the link and see for yourself. Maybe we missed something.
[ Via: Chevy Traverse Forum ]
[ Tag: list, lists, top ten, top ten list, top ten lists, TopTen, TopTenList, TopTenLists ]
Freep names 10 cars that will redefine the industry... like the Camaro
Spy Shots: Mazdaspeed 3 spotted at the 'Ring
Click above for high-res gallery of 2010 Mazdaspeed3 spy shots
With the new 2010 Mazda3 on its way, the next logical question for any gearhead worth his driving shoes is when we'll set our eyes on the next Mazdaspeed version. Well, we have our answer already if the latest batch of spy shots are to be believed.The current Mazdaspeed3, also known as the Mazda3 MPS in Europe and the Mazdaspeed Axela in the Japanese domestic market, is a veritable barn-stormer and Mazda's performance engineers will be eager to follow up with an even hotter version of the new model. This prototype, bearing all the hallmarks of the new 3 coupled with all manner of performance bolt-ons, was spotted lapping the vaunted Nürburgring Nordschleife wearing a bit of camo and a lot of speed. The shots reveal the presence of a big ol' hood scoop, oversized alloys, a full aero kit and dual exhaust. Of course, the next question is what engine will be crammed under that gaping bonnet vent, with some suggesting a revamped version of the current model's direct-inject 2.3-liter turbo four and others the Volvo-derived 2.5-liter five-cylinder turbo slated to crank out 300 hp in the new Euro-only Ford Focus RS. Tantalizing options, both, but we'll just have to wait and see what the Zoom-Zoom crew have in store for us.
[ Via: Autoblog (Mazda) ]
[ Tag: 2010 mazda3, 2010 mazdaspeed3, 2010Mazda3, 2010Mazdaspeed3, breaking, mazda 3 mps, mazda speed axela, mazda3, Mazda3Mps, mazdaspeed, mazdaspeed 3, Mazdaspeed3, MazdaSpeedAxela, new mazda 3, NewMazda3, spied, spy, spy pics, spy shots, SpyPics, SpyShots ]
Ford to sell Mazda shares to insurers?
While GM is being swamped with the persistent rumors surrounding the addition/dissolution of Chrysler, Ford's rumor mill has been heading in the complete opposite direction. It appears Volvo is on the way out of Dearborn, but Mazda may be sneaking through the exit first. Recent reports since disputed by Mazda have Ford selling off a portion of its 33.4% stake in the Japanese automaker, which means the Blue Oval would lose majority ownership status. The Nikkei daily in Japan has been all over the Ford/Mazda story, and the latest news involves selling 20% of Mazda to 20 Japanese firms including some insurance companies, leaving Ford with a stake of around 13%.
Ford is allegedly unwilling to sell the shares to its competition, so splitting the Mazda shares in 20 small chunks makes picking up all the shares difficult. Besides five insurance companies, parts maker Denso, steel companies, and trading companies are also rumored to be taking part in the purchase. The price of 1% Mazda ownership is in the neighborhood of $40 million, and the total sale could approach $1 billion. Japanese media is reporting that any deal could be announced next month, and neither Mazda or Ford are saying a word at this point.
[ Via: Automotive News ]
[ Tag: ford, insurance, insurance companies, InsuranceCompanies, japan, mazda, sold ]
Mazda set to expand range
According to president and CEO James Muir, the company would like to go a bit upmarket, attracting buyers looking for an aspirational brand. We're okay with that as long as Mazda's don't lose their sporty edge in the process. To make the transition, the automaker is looking to offer more variations of models already in its line and to add a few new ones. A new entry-level model could show up first, drawing styling cues from the company's radical concept cars such as the Kiyora concept recently shown as the Paris Motor Show. That new city car could be known as the Mazda1. A small crossover is also on the drawing board and was previewed by the awesome Kazamai concept from Moscow.
Also present and accounted for is the rumor that just won't die: a new RX-7, which would undoubtedly be powered by a version of Mazda's unique Renesis rotary engine. We'd expect the new RX to be a bit more than just an RX-8 with its rear doors lopped off, as the 7 has always been Mazda's top performer. That new halo car would complement the more aggressive MX-5 that the automaker is currently working on.
[ Via: Autocar ]
[ Tag: mazda, mazda 1, mazda kazamai, mazda kazamai concept, mazda kiyora, mazda kiyora concept, mazda1, MazdaKazamai, MazdaKazamaiConcept, MazdaKiyora, MazdaKiyoraConcept ]
Mazda may buy some of itself back from Ford
Rumors of Ford selling part or all of its 33.4% share in Mazda have picked up steam this week since we first reported on them over the weekend, and analysts in Tokyo think a deal that "clears a cloud over Mazda" is imminent. Nikkei English News also reported that Ford has asked Japanese supplier Denso to purchase part of its stake in Mazda, but the Japanese news agency didn't claim any sources and Denso has declined comment in the matter. Most are guessing that potential buyers would include Mazda itself, as well as a number of companies over which the risk of investment could be spread, while Ford would likely hold on to at least some of its stake in the brand but lose its controlling share of the company.
Management from Ford and Mazda are largely silent regarding any possible deal, but Mazda spokesman Ken Haruki said that "nothing has been decided," which doesn't sound like much of a denial. There is no question that Ford needs cash to get through these turbulent economic times, and its share of Mazda is currently worth $1.33 billion based on Wednesday's share price, which itself has dropped 56% in the past year. The ownership status of Mazda is likely worth more than $1.33 billion, though, and anyone taking that title from Ford will surely have to pay a premium.
Even if Ford sells some or all of its stake in Mazda, the two companies would continue to share platforms, powertrains and components for a long, long time. That will help Ford continue to enjoy economies of scale while giving Mazda good hardware without the massive development costs.
[ Via: Detroit News ]
[ Tag: ford, ford mazda sale, FordMazdaSale, mazda ]
Spy Shots: 2010 Mazda3 interior snapped
Judging from exterior shots of the 2010 Mazda3 that were released last week, Mazda is looking to be more than a bit player in the small car market. The styling of the new Mazda3 looks more expensive than the current model, and is perhaps a better example of the brand's new design language than the also recently redesigned Mazda6. We've been looking forward to seeing pics of the Mazda3 on the inside, and judging from this one spy shot we've seen so far, the Zoom Zoom designers didn't go cheap on the interior.
The first thing that draws attention in the Mazda3 cabin is the Civic-esque two-tier dashboard. We're not huge fans of this style, but Mazda designers did a nice job of integrating the top deck with the lower level and center stack. Judging from the sole pic, some buttons on the center stack look to be a bit small, but main knobs for HVAC and volume are nice and big. The interior in this example is two-toned with what looks to be an aluminum-finished applique above the glove box, and more contrasting colors on the seats and doors. One thing that didn't change from the current generation Mazda3 is the red back-lighting on all the gauges, buttons, and knobs that we've come to expect from Mazda.
[ Via: TTAC ]
[ Tag: 2010 mazda3, 2010Mazda3, mazda3, mazda3 interior, Mazda3Interior, spy photo, SpyPhoto ]
Ford may be considering sale of Mazda stake
The financial peril that currently faces the U.S. domestic automakers is no secret, and according to Wall Street Journal report published yesterday, Ford is mulling over the possibility of unloading at least part of its controlling stake in Mazda to raise cash. Japanese media, via the AP, said that Ford would likely keep some interests in the Japanese automaker after such a move -- no surprise when you consider how closely tied Ford and Madza are right now in terms of shared technology. The Oval's third-quarter numbers are expected to be pretty ugly, and the Journal's source said that the potential sale of its Mazda holdings is one of many moves reportedly under consideration as Dearborn looks for ways to add to its cash on hand. For its part, Mazda denies that any decision has been made (a non-denial, really -- no outlets reported that a deal had yet been completed) and Ford weighed in with a to-be-expected "no comment." As they say, to be continued...
[Sources: The Wall Street Journal, AP]
[ Via: Autoblog (Mazda) ]
[ Tag: ford, ford earnings, ford mazda, FordEarnings, FordMazda, mazda, mazda sale, MazdaSale ]
VIDEO: Mazda releases unrevealing teaser vid of 2010 Mazda3
Mazda has already given us a sneak-peak at its long-awaited 2010 Mazda3, and while we like what we've seen so far, we want more. We know that team Zoom Zoom is adding a new 2.5L engine to replace the outgoing 2.3L engine, and that the full Monte will be shown at the LA Auto Show next month, but anything more would be great. We came across a short video clip of the Mazda3 in action, but it's 12 seconds long and shows the same three photos we've already seen with moving wheel animations. Needless to say, it's a little disappointing. Now is as good of a time as any to look at the high-resolution pics we do have in the gallery below, and if you need help imagining what Mazda's top-selling sedan looks like in motion, hit the jump.
[ Via: eGMCarTech ]
[ Tag: 2010 mazda3, 2010Mazda3, mazda, mazda3 ]
Mazda MX-5 will get lighter, maybe alternative powertrain
The Mazda MX-5 is one of the world's best handling cars under $25,000, and as much as we Americans want more power and size to turn the Japanese roadster into a proper pony car, that's probably not going to happen. Increased fuel economy and CO2 reductions will force the MX-5 into the same situation as larger vehicles. It has to get more efficient and lighter to stay competitive. MX-5 program manager Takao Kijima told Drive that Mazda is looking at alternative powertrains for its little roadster, but the Zoom Zoom specialists are also looking to drop 10% of the car's weight.
One way to improve efficiency is with diesel technology. Diesels can be 30% more efficient than petrol powerplants, but beefier diesel parts means that total displacement must be smaller than the current engine's 2.0 liters. Another idea is a hybrid, which, like the diesel, would provide instant torque that would also add weight to a vehicle that's just about to go on a diet. Kijima also stated that any MX-5 would absolutely have to have 50/50 weight distribution, meaning that a hybrid with its heavy batteries would by tricky, but not impossible. For our money, we'll take a 10% lighter Miata with a smaller turbocharged, direct-inject gas engine with ethanol injections.
[ Via: Drive ]
[ Tag: alternative powertrains, AlternativePowertrains, diesel, Mazda Miata, Mazda MX-5, MazdaMiata, MazdaMx-5 ]
In the Autoblog Garage: 2009 Mazda RX-8 R3, return of the "hummer"
Hard as it may be to believe, the word "hummer" didn't always bring up visions of obnoxious, polarizing SUVs. In fact, there was a time not so very long ago that uttering that word evoked something entirely different, namely cars powered by Wankel rotary engines. For the past three decades, the world's sole purveyor of rotary-powered automobiles has been Mazda. The "Zoom-Zoom" brand has always been a little different from its compatriots. Back in 1963, a young Kenichi Yamamoto was heading up the research department at Mazda and latched on to the concept developed a decade earlier by Felix Wankel.
Just as two-stroke engines were all the rage for a time in the early 1990s and fuel cells in the middle of this decade, the Wankel rotary seemed to be the next big thing in the 1960s and early '70s. For a time it seemed every major automaker had licensed the design from Wankel and was trying to commercialize it. Some like NSU did build rotaries while General Motors and Daimler Benz built an assortment of concept cars. By the mid-'70s, all had given up except Yamamoto-san and Mazda. From the original 1967 Cosmo, Mazda has built an unbroken string of hummers culminating with the recently updated 2009 RX-8 R3. The pony-keg sized power plant isn't the only unique element of the RX-8, which you can read all about that after the jump.
[ Via: Autoblog (Mazda) ]
[ Tag: featured, mazda rx-8, mazda rx-8 r3, mazda rx-8 rotary en..., mazda rx-8 rotary engine 40th anniversary edition, mazda rx8, mazda rx8 hydrogen re, MazdaRx-8, MazdaRx-8R3, MazdaRx-8RotaryEn..., MazdaRx-8RotaryEngine40thAnniversaryEdition, MazdaRx8, MazdaRx8HydrogenRe ]
Autocar drives 2010 Mazda3 prototype - "big improvement"
British mag Autocar just got through driving a 2010 Mazda3 prototype and the author seems to have come away impressed. The mag got the chance to sample the new 3 in gas and diesel variants while driving them around Iceland's coastline. They were very impressed with the new 2.2L diesel, but we'll likely just get the equally new and impressive 2.0L direct-injection gas engine here in the former colonies. They described that DI engine as "impressively smooth, refined and torquey" while routing its power through a "very slick" six-speed manual. Mazda has apparently also kept the spirit of Zoom-Zoom alive in the handling department, producing a car that is more "pointable... than is common in this class." Autocar went so far as to compare it to a Mk IV Golf V5. High praise indeed. We'll have to wait until later next month at the LA Auto Show to see how the U.S. version turns out, but for now we'll take Autocar's word on this being "a big improvement over the current car," which many of us already love.
[ Via: Autocar ]
[ Tag: mazda3 ]
2010 Mazda3 unveiled ahead of LA Auto Show
Mazda has confirmed the time and place for the unveiling of its all-new 2010 Mazda3: November 19th at the LA Auto Show. In anticipation of the car's public debut, the Japanese automaker released these three images of the remodeled 3 sedan that reveal the car's new design. While the new 3 retains a similar shape as the current model with a high beltline and rear decklid, the new car sports a much more expressive face with a "smile" grille positioned low up front that's flanked by vertical air intake/fog light combos. The front fenders, likewise, are more distinct from the elevated hood and roll nicely back into the car's forward canted character line. Out back are bigger taillights embedded in what appears to be a larger trunk above dual exhaust tips. The overall shape is a logical evolution of the current car that combines current Mazda design elements already found on the RX-8, Mazda6 and recently refreshed MX-5. Mazda also tells us that the 3 sedan will carry over its 2.0L four-cylinder, but be joined by a larger 2.5L engine to replace the current car's 2.3L. As for the Mazda3 five-door hatchback, we'll have to wait until some time after the LA Auto Show for that, though we're hoping the new Mazdaspeed3 is not far behind.
[ Via: Autoblog (Mazda) ]
[ Tag: 2010 mazda3, 2010Mazda3, breaking, la auto show, LaAutoShow, mazda3 ]
Paris 2008: 2009 Mazda MX-5
We finally had the opportunity to check out the 2009 Mazda MX-5 in person, and despite the tweaks being minor, we like what we see.
This is one of those instances where the press pics don't do it justice. It's difficult to see the RX-8-inspired revisions to the front end, but on closer inspection, the new headlamps, five-point air dam and blistered arches all flow effortlessly into its predecessors lines. Out back, the redesigned taillamps are easy to miss, but we'll be the first to say we prefer the outgoing models red lenses.
More importantly, the 2009 model gets an extra 500 rpm before redline, new 16- and 17-inch aluminum wheels and an upgraded gearbox that has new carbon-coated synchronizers for easier, smoother shifts. Additionally, the front suspension knuckles and roll center have been revised to provide even more steering feel and a more confident ride.
Sales are set to begin in Europe towards the middle of next year, with North American sales beginning shortly thereafter. Hit the jump for the press release.
[ Via: Autoblog (Mazda) ]
[ Tag: 2009, 2009 mazda mx-5, 2009MazdaMx-5, 2010, 2010 mazda mx-5, 2010MazdaMx-5, mazda, mx-5, mx5, paris, paris 2008, paris motor show, Paris2008, ParisMotorShow ]
Paris 2008: Mazda Kiyora concept
Like so many shows in recent memory, part of the theme in Paris is "green." So in addition to the Nissan Nuvu micro EV, Mazda took the wraps off yet another Nagare-themed concept, the Kiyora.
Taking inspiration from past design studies and its Japanese name, which translates to "clean and pure," the Kiyora will influence Mazda's next city car, due to replace the Mazda2 in the middle of the next decade. Measuring in at 3,770mm, the four-seat city car features a 1.3-liter gasoline-powered engine with direct injection and more efficient combustion chambers mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox. Weight and aerodynamics are two key elements of the Kiyora, and with a body made almost entirely of carbon fiber and a drag reduced by 10 percent over the current Mazda2, the diminutive city car would put out less than 90g/km of CO2... if it goes into production.
Check the press release below the fold.
[ Via: Autoblog (Mazda) ]
[ Tag: kiyora, mazda, mazda kiyora, MazdaKiyora, paris, paris 2008, paris motor show, Paris2008, ParisMotorShow ]