MAZDA RX-8 PZ Prodrive Edition

Created jointly with Prodrive to deliver greater driver involvement. Only 800 examples available

Mazda is introducing an even more ‘focused’ version of its highest performance, four-door, sports coupé. On sale in the UK from 1 July it will be called the ‘Mazda RX-8 PZ’.

Based on the 231ps high-power version of Mazda RX-8 with leather trim, the PZ has been further developed by Mazda jointly with leading motorsport company Prodrive, and specialist component suppliers Bilstein, Eibach and OZ Racing. Mazda’s brief to Prodrive was to build on the remarkable attributes of the standard Mazda RX-8 and create a special model that delivers greater driver involvement and an even more rewarding motoring experience, with enhanced ride and handling, while staying true to the original concept and without compromising the car’s passenger comfort as a unique four-seater sports car.

Ensuring a touch of exclusivity, just 800 examples of the Mazda RX-8 PZ will be available, priced at £25,995 on-the-road with an insurance rating of 17E compared to 16E for the standard RX-8 231ps model.

Distinguishing features include a choice of two colours Brilliant Black (solid) or Galaxy Grey (metallic), unique 18-inch OZ alloy wheels, rear silencer and aerodynamic rear spoiler, lowered suspension, sporty door mirrors, grille mesh inserts on front and rear bumpers as well as ‘PZ’ and 'Prodrive' badging. Additionally, inside RX-8 PZ features the black leather seat trim, plus black leather-wrapped steering wheel, gear knob and hand‑brake lever that features as standard on all RX-8 231ps models.

While the PZ certainly looks sophisticated and different from regular RX-8s, the changes and components that deliver the ‘greater driver involvement’ lie beneath the car’s stylish exterior. Bespoke suspension settings were developed by Prodrive during extensive testing of the prototype car at its Warwick test centre, the MIRA proving ground and on selected public roads, including challenging A and B roads as well as motorways.

The final specification derived by Prodrive for the Mazda RX-8 PZ sees the ride height lowered by 15mm all round, while the car is equipped with top-quality components from three companies at the leading edge of world-class motorsport.

To reduce roll and pitch, and achieve an even flatter cornering attitude, special Bilstein dampers and Eibach coil springs, made to Prodrive specifications, are fitted. The spring rates are increased by over 60 per cent, while the specially tuned gas-filled mono-tube dampers give tighter body control, yet maintain good compliance over ridges and bumps in the road. The front bump stop is changed for a new Bilstein item, (10mm shorter than standard), to achieve enhanced handling. The suspension geometry has also been revised to optimise the steering and handling. The anti-roll bars, rear bump stops and tyres are to the standard RX-8 specification to maintain rear passenger ride comfort.

The RX-8 PZ is also fitted with uniquely designed 10-spoke, 18-inch diameter lightweight alloy wheels, finished in dark silver with carbon fibre centre caps, branded with Prodrive and OZ logos. The OZ Racing wheels are just one ingredient of the subtle visual makeover given to the PZ. The standard boot lid spoiler is removed and replaced with an aerodynamic spoiler developed in the MIRA wind tunnel. Specially created for the RX-8 PZ by Prodrive, the spoiler is designed to generate down-force and enhance high-speed stability, while also endowing the PZ with a more pronounced appearance.

Black mesh grilles are fitted to the outer and central front air intakes and to the rear bumper vent. Lower-drag sporty door mirrors (similar to those used on the RX-8 Evolve) are also featured. Branding is applied to the front wings alongside the air vents, the rear spoiler, the twin chrome exhaust tailpipe surrounds and the wheel centres.

The PZ also sounds different from other RX-8s. An upgraded rear silencer was developed to give a sportier sound inside and outside the car.

In terms of acceleration and top speed, the Mazda RX-8 PZ performance matches that of the standard 231ps model, with a 0 to 62mph time of just 6.4 seconds and a maximum speed of 146mph. However, the spring, damper and aerodynamic changes result in a significantly more focused car, with greatly enhanced appeal for drivers wanting to fully exploit the car’s dynamics including better cornering ability and a more precise steering feel.

The changes embodied in PZ will inspire driver confidence and make the Mazda RX-8 range even more attractive to motorists in search of a seriously capable sports car with the unique ability to take the family for an exciting drive.

MAZDA RX-8 PZ – AT A GLANCE

Performance

Lowered ride height

Upgraded coil springs and dampers

Unique 18-inch OZ alloy wheels

Unique aerodynamic rear spoiler

Unique upgraded twin rear silencers

Appearance

Exterior colours, Brilliant Black (480 units) or Galaxy Grey (320 units)

Front and rear mesh grilles

Sporty door mirrors

PZ side badges

PZ and Prodrive branded rear spoiler

Prodrive and OZ branded wheel centre caps

Prodrive branded silencer surrounds

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Mazda Miata / MX-5 “Bad Attitude” Video Ads

THESE ads of the new generation Miata / MX-5 roadster are said to have been cut by Mazda officials. Both follow Mazda’s parent Ford, SportKa ads in philosophy, showing the bad side of the Japanese roadsters character. Enjoy!

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2007 Mazda CX-9 Official Information

Mazda released more information and pictures in its new seven-passenger crossover sport-utility vehicle CX-9. Arriving in Mazda dealerships in early 2007, the CX-9 is designed and engineered specifically for North America.

PRESS RELEASE: SPACE TO STRETCH
The Mazda CX-9 rides on one of the longest wheelbases in the segment, providing easy access to its three-row seating. To ease accommodations for all drivers, the driver’s seat and steering column move quickly and easily over a long range of adjustment.

The 60-40 split second row not only carries three in comfort, it also offers approximately five-inches of fore-and-aft slide travel and a reclining backrest. In the 50-50-split third row, the seating position and leg room are both class-leading in numbers and real comfort. Entry to the third row is easy, with nearly 26 inches of access space between the folded second-row seat and the C-pillar. Even with the third row occupied, the CX-9 provides 17.2 cubic feet of cargo capacity, eclipsing many large sedan trunks. Both second- and third-row seats fold flat to allow additional storage all the way up to the back of the front seats.

Extra thought is invested in small details, such as how the CX-9’s seat releases are configured. For example, releasing the second row seat in order to enter the third row requires only one simple hand motion to unlatch the seat and move it forward. Likewise, a clever strap attached behind the third row seat’s backrest serves as both a release for folding the seat and a means of pulling it back erect again.

EXTERIOR STYLING A PRIORITY
Many mid-sized crossover SUVs strive for the utilitarian look. CX-9’s front end is unmistakably Mazda, with its elegantly sculpted sporty five-point grille and wide, bold bumper. A horizontal streak of chrome floats on the front grille bar, giving a distinctive and high quality feel. Side windows form a flowing, open and modern greenhouse, allowing clear vision from all seating positions. The unique trapezoid chrome exhaust pipe accentuates the fine detail put into the design.

INTERIOR STYLING STANDS OUT
Once inside the CX-9, the driver is greeted by a neatly organized combination of cylindrical shapes and blacked-out instruments on a T-shaped instrument panel. Brightly edged gauges with metal-look trim and indirect blue illumination set a cool mood. Indirect lighting also is embedded in the front and rear door trim and ceiling for a warm glow. Horizontal elements in areas such as the center panel, door trim and seat design intersect with vertical accents to create the same harmony present in fine furniture.

Interior craftsmanship and attention to detail is visible everywhere. Soft trim is elegantly configured and constructed of top-quality materials and seats have an inviting yet sporty look and feel appropriate to this type of vehicle. The dash panel houses large, clearly marked entertainment and climate controls. Delicate stitching and the metallic look of the floating door trim-grips reveal the designer’s fine eye for detail.

ENERGETIC AND REFINED POWERTRAIN
The CX-9 is powered by a new 3.5-liter V-6 with a preliminary rating of 250-horsepower. Advanced features include dual-overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, variable valve timing, a high compression ratio and electronic throttle control. While six-speed automatic transmissions have until now been exclusive to premium-priced SUVs, the CX-9 provides that desirable feature as standard equipment. The direct benefits to Mazda customers are optimum acceleration and passing performance, coupled with excellent highway fuel efficiency.

Drive is either through the front wheels or via Mazda’s advanced Active Torque-Split All-Wheel Drive system. On all-wheel-drive models, various sensors signal control modules to automatically apportion torque to those wheels most able to provide solid traction. A computer-controlled coupling, connected with the rear differential, automatically adjusts the torque distribution, allowing up to 50-percent of the drive power to be sent to the rear wheels, depending on traction conditions. This all-wheel drive system has been especially well received in MAZDASPEED6 and CX-7 applications.

SURE-FOOTED CHASSIS & BODY
The stiff unibody of the Mazda CX-9 provides a sound foundation for a poised ride and agile handling. Computer-aided-engineering analysis was used to optimize this structure, delivering high torsional and bending rigidity with minimal weight.

In front, the perimeter frame mounted to the unibody through six rubber isolators supports the powertrain, the engine-speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion power steering, and a low friction strut-type suspension system using coil springs. The multilink rear suspension consists of one trailing arm and two lateral locating members per side. To minimize cargo-compartment intrusion and permit a wider load space, the rear coil spring is positioned between the lower lateral member and the unibody. Anti-roll bars at each end maximize agility and control during assertive driving.

Twenty-inch, V-rated, low-profile radial tires (P245/50R-20) are standard equipment on the top Grand Touring model while Sports and Touring editions roll on P245/60R-18 tires. As a result, CX-9 looks and feels unusually nimble for its size and is the clear class leader for driving pleasure.

SAFETY WITH ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY
The Mazda CX-9’s safety features are highlighted by an advanced Roll Stability Control (RSC) system that uses both body-roll rate and wheel speed sensors to determine when corrective action is necessary. A momentary torque reduction, combined with an automatic brake application, assists in restoring the CX-9 to an even keel.

Four-wheel disc ventilated brakes include an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) to prevent lockup during emergency use. When excessive wheel slippage is detected, a Traction Control System (TCS) automatically reduces driveline torque to help restore traction. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) reduces driveline torque and automatically applies one or more brakes to minimize under- or over-steer during emergency maneuvers. Additional protection is provided by sensor-activated side-curtain airbags which extend from the first to the third row.

TRIM AND ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES
CX-9 is offered in three trim levels: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. More detail on specific model content will be available closer to launch, but standard features on all trims include air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, cruise control, and six airbags. To help avoid accidents, all CX-9s are fitted as standard with DSC, RSC and ABS with brakeforce distribution. An optionally available power-operated lift gate provides one-touch opening and closing access to the cargo hold.

Features available in models and packages include leather interior trim, power adjustment for front seats, high intensity discharge headlamps with automatic-on, rain-sensing wipers, mirror-mounted turn indicators and driver’s-seat memory.

PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS MAZDA CX-9

Dimension	Overall length	199.6 inches (5,071 mm)
	Overall width	76.2 inches (1,936 mm)
	Overall height w/ 18 inch tires	68.1 inches (1,729 mm)
	w/ 20 inch tires	68.3 inches (1,734 mm)
	Wheelbase	113.2 inches (2,875 mm)
	Seating Capacity	7 passenger
Engine	Type	MZI 3.5L V6 DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
	Max. power	250 hp
	Max. torque	240 lb-ft
Transmission	Type	6-speed electronically controlled automatic with manual shift mode
Steering	Type	Rack-and-pinion
Suspension	Type (front/ rear)	Macpherson Strut/ Multilink
Brake	Type (front & rear)	Ventilated Discs
Tires and wheels	Tires (front & rear)	18”: P245/60R18 20”: P245/50R20
	Wheels (front & rear)	18”: 18 x 7.5J 20”: 20 x 7.5J

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Mazda CX-9 SUV

Mazda announced its going to exhibit its all new 7seater SUV named CX-9, at the New York International Auto Show. The CX-9 will start its career in North America in early 2007 where it will be offered with a new 3.5 litre V6 engine driven through a standard six-speed automatic transmission.

PRESS RELEASE

As a larger sibling to the Mazda CX-7 crossover SUV, unveiled earlier this year at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the Mazda CX-9 is the second vehicle designed and engineered specifically for the North American market.

"The all-new CX-7 and CX-9 were engineered specifically for North America to help us fulfill ambitious goals. The CX-9 has traits only a Mazda SUV could have: strong performance, agile handling, precise steering and superior quality and craftsmanship.", emphasizes Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North America.

The seven-passenger Mazda CX-9 is a clean break from the traditional boxy SUVs crowding the US market. Engineered with Mazda’s “Soul of a Sports Car” signature, Mazda CX-9 blends a sporty driving spirit with seven-passenger SUV practicality. It has a unique Mazda design and Zoom-Zoom performance; along with high levels of interior quality, space and versatility.

Mazda CX-9 is powered by a new MZI 3.5L V6 engine driven through a standard six-speed automatic transmission. Final drive is through either front- or all-wheel drive.

More detail on specific model content will be available closer to launch, but standard features on all trims include air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, cruise control, and six airbags. To help avoid accidents, all CX-9s are fitted as standard with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Roll Stability Control (RSC) and Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS). An optionally available power-operated lift gate provides one-touch opening and closing access to the cargo hold.

The Mazda CX-9 will be produced at the Ujina Plant located near Mazda’s headquarters in Hiroshima, Japan and is expected in North American showrooms in early 2007.

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Mazda Roadster NR-A

Mazda announced that it will release the NR-A version Mazda Roadster for sale at its Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealers throughout Japan in early April 2006. The Roadster is known as the MX-5 in overseas markets.

Designed with specifications that enable drivers to compete in NR-A category races after the addition of special racing kit, Mazda has been selling the base model NR-A Roadster since December 2001. Since then, the NR-A model Roadster has been favorably received by motorsports enthusiasts thanks to its reasonable cost and the added dimension of exhilarating driving possibilities that come with meeting the NR-A race requirements.

The new NR-A model Roadster is based on the third generation Roadster that underwent a complete redesign and launched in August 2005. Employing special equipment on the new Roadster NR-A model--height-adjustable Bilstein dampers, a torque-sensing 'Super LSD' (limited-slip differential), and front strut tower bars--makes this exciting new model more suitable for sporty driving.

The manufacturer's suggested retail price for the Roadster MX-5 NR-A model is 2,300,000 yen, including sales tax. It is only available in the Japanese market. The new NR-A model was designed to participate in the "Roadster Party" One Make Races in Japan. These events are sponsored by Mazda and will be held from September 2006.

Technical specifications of the NR-A Roadster

Model name and type		Mazda CBA-NCEC
Dimensions	Overall length/width/height	3,995mm x 1,720mm x 1,245mm
	Wheelbase	2,330mm
	Weight	1,120kg (1,100kg with factory-installed aluminum wheels)
	Minimum clearance	135mm
	Seating capacity	2 people
Steering		Rack and pinion
Suspension (front/rear)		Double wishbone/multilink
Brakes (front/rear)		Ventilated disc/disc
Tires and wheels	Tires	205/50R16 87V
	Wheels	16x6 1/2JJ
Engine	Model	LF-VE
	Type	Water-cooled inline 4-cylinder DOHC 16 valve
	Displacement	1,998cc
	Compression ratio	10.8
	Maximum output	125kW (170PS) /6,700rpm
	Maximum torque	189Nm (19.3kg-m) /5,000rpm
	Fuel supply system	EGI (Electronic Gasoline Injection)
	Fuel & tank volume	Unleaded premium gasoline / 50 liters
10/15 mode fuel economy (MLIT inspection values)		13.4km/l
Main fuel economy improvement		Variable valve timing
Minimum turning radius		4.7m

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