The Mazda 2 is being updated for 2020 to bring it into line with newer rivals, and it’s available to order now with the first examples landing in dealers. The entry level SE-L model will cost £15,795, and includes rear parking sensors, 15in alloy wheels and climate control. As well a more powerful engine, SE-L Nav models and above gain the Mazda Connect navigation system, which is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and driver assistance features including brake assist and lane-keeping assist. SE-L Nav models start from £16,610. For £17,310, Sport Nav models add 16in alloy wheels, a gloss black grille, rear privacy glass, chrome exhausts and keyless entry. The top-rung GT Sport Nav models feature a reversing camera, leather seats, a head-up display, and heated front seats and steering wheel. Such models start from £18,110 for manual models, and £19,370 with an automatic gearbox. The Japanese firm’s Ford Fiesta and Hyundai i20 rival will retain the 1.5-litre Skyactiv-G petrol engine, but is now boosted by a belt-integrated starter/generator on all manual models. It will be offered in two stages of tune, with a 74bhp version on entry level SE-L models, and a 89bhp powertrain for SE-L Nav, Sport Nav and GT Sport Nav trims. The manual versions produce 94-95g/km of CO2, depending on trim level, with a WLTP-certified combined fuel economy of 53.4mpg. Mazda cites a number of tweaks to improve the handling of its supermini, including a new urethane top mount in the rear dampers, revised power steering and the introduction of a G-Vectoring Control Plus system, which subtly uses the brakes to aid cornering stability and smoothen your chosen line. The design changes include a revised grille with a new design closer to the Mazda 3, a wider wing, new bumper and revised LED headlights. Inside, the dashboard trim, air vents and other features have been tweaked, with new-shape seats designed to offer more comfort. Mazda also claims the use of new damping materials and the reduction in the gap around the B-pillar reduce noise and improve refinement for those
Origin: New Mazda 2: prices and specs revealed for redesigned supermini
Mazda
Mazda mulls over making the MX-5 electric
2019 Mazda MX-5 MiataNick Tragianis / Driving The rumour mill is churning out Mazda news the next-gen MX-5 could get electrified, either partially as a hybrid or fully as a battery powered EV, in the near future. Autocar in the UK reports that sources within the brand, including research and development head Ichiro Hirose and brand and design chief Ikuo Maeda, are aware drivers of the sporty little MX-5 are seeking environmentally friendly alternatives. And apparently the brand is willing to play along. “The preference of people who enjoy driving sports cars might be changing, so we need to think about what direction society is going,” Maeda told Autocar. “We want to look at the best powertrain to keep the vehicle lightweight, but because of the diversifying requirements and preference, we need to explore various options. “I don’t have the answer now but we need to make a vehicle that people can own without worrying that they are not being eco-friendly.”So, regardless of whether or how the little drop-top sports car is given the “e” prefix, Mazda promises to keep it true to its lightweight motoring roots, reiterating to Autocar that “The lightweighting and compact size are essential elements of MX-5, so even if we apply electrification, we have to make sure it really helps to achieve the lightweighting of the vehicle.”The latest Mazda Miata MX-5 got a healthy jolt of power, and any electrification is likely to do more of the same. We’re open to the idea, but will certainly be holding Mazda to its word on keeping the car light on its feet.LISTEN: In this week’s episode, we talk about all the electrifying news coming out of the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show with Postmedia Driving senior writer David Booth, including Ford’s bold Mustang Mach-e SUV. And, of course, we get Booth’s take on Tesla’s Cybertruck. Plugged In is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Podcasts.Is the player not working? Click
Origin: Mazda mulls over making the MX-5 electric
2020 Mazda CX-30 splits the difference between the CX-3 and CX-5
2020 Mazda CX-30Derek McNaughton / Driving What is it?By now, its a universal truth that we Canadians are hungry for SUVs and crossovers. Well, Mazda wants to satisfy our appetites with the CX-30, a new crossover slotting between the CX-3 and CX-5, at the Los Angeles Auto Show.Why does it matter?The CX-5 is, without a doubt, Mazdas bread-and-butter crossover. So, its easy to see why theyd want to capitalize on the success after all, its hands-down Mazdas best-seller. Problem is, the CX-5 can be a bit too big for some buyers enter the CX-3, right? Well, that ones a bit too tight, particularly in the rear seat and cargo area.This is where the CX-3 comes into play. Not quite as big as the CX-3 yet not quite as tight as the CX-5, consider the CX-30 as the Goldilocks. From the outside, the CX-30 is essentially a restyled CX-5 with a sleeker roofline its genuinely attractive, embracing Mazdas Kodo design language with a thin and wide grille, slim headlights, and some clever contouring in the sheet metal thats not quite visible to the naked eye until certain light and reflections happen to hit the sides just right.Check out all of our latest auto show coverage hereInside, the CX-30 is immediately familiar. Sharing an overall interior layout with the Mazda3, fit-and-finish is absolutely impeccable. An 8.8-inch display handles infotainment duties, while a seven-inch digital display in the gauge cluster is standard. Naturally, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are standard, and Mazda offers its latest suite of active safety features are available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert is standard on the base GX, but youll have to step up to the mid-level GS if you want goodies like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision alert, and lane-keep assist, among others. The GT adds a couple of new tricks up its sleeve in this department, including rear automatic braking. The CX-30 adds knee airbags for the driver and front passenger, too.The only slight disappointment with the CX-30 is the powertrain lineup. Its a carbon copy of the Mazda3, meaning the 2.0-litre SkyActiv inline-four is standard, good for 155 horsepower and 150 lb.-ft. of torque. If thats not enough kick, Mazdas 2.5L four-banger is available, good for 186 horsepower and 186 lb.-ft. of torque. Both powertrains are hooked up to a six-speed automatic, and all-wheel-drive is available.Now, theres nothing inherently wrong with this powertrain lineup Mazdas G-Vectoring Control is standard fare, and the company has paid extra attention to quashing noise, vibration, and harshness, so you can bet itll ride well but youd think the CX-30 wouldve debuted for North America with Mazdas trick SkyActiv-X engine. When is it coming?The Mazda CX-30 is hitting U.S. dealers next month, followed by Canada in January. The CX-30 starts at $23,950 for a base, front-wheel-drive GX and tops out at $33,850 for the fully loaded GT.Should you buy it?Good question. The CX-30 is priced well, generously equipped, and the interior is impeccable. And given its a Mazda, you can bet itll be among the more engaging crossovers in the segment. If the CX-5 is too big, the CX-3 is too tight, and the Mazda3 hatch doesnt fit the bill, the CX-30 is just
Origin: 2020 Mazda CX-30 splits the difference between the CX-3 and CX-5
Mazda now selling first-gen Miata restoration parts in North America
Mazda NA MiataMazda Mazda knows the world loves its Miata. The MX-5 Miata actually holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s best-selling two-seat sports car, so the secret’s very much out. Now, in an effort to encourage Miata restorations, the brand is introducing a new list of authentic reproduction parts for first-gen models. Mazda consulted Miata Clubs and specialty shops to curate the list of over 1,100 new and legacy parts, all of which it plans to re-manufacture in Japan. Included on the list is a new fabric soft top made from the same material as the original; replica aluminum wheels made lighter and with a protective finish; and “many moving parts – from the roller for the side windows to the brake piston caliper – that are likely in need of replacement.” “There is a pure feeling of joy when it comes to driving a Miata, of any generation,” said Masahiro Moro, Chairman and CEO of Mazda North American Operations. “Our unique Jinba-Ittai – ‘horse and rider as one’ – engineering philosophy has allowed for the engaging and exhilarating driving dynamic that has remained constant over the years, helping make the Miata an important vehicle for the brand and our fans.” “By helping prolong the life of MX-5 Miata NA models, Mazda is committed to supporting the roadster culture and looks forward to seeing these historic vehicles on the road – and on the track – for years to come.”So, if you know someone who’s got a less-than-perfect Miata sitting in their garage, give them a nudge in this direction — you can scope the full list of first-generation Mazda MX-5 parts right
Origin: Mazda now selling first-gen Miata restoration parts in North America
Mazda MX-30 spearheads electrification plans for maker
The electric Mazda MX-30 spearheads a new electrification strategy for the Japanese car maker. This will include plug-in hybrids and hybrid variants of existing models plus more EVs, the latter developed as a result of its EV tie-up with Toyota and Denso. Mazda has not yet confirmed when we’ll see the next electrified model in its line-up, but we expect a plug-in hybrid to arrive in the next 18 months. This is likely to be based on a high-volume model such as the Mazda 3 in order to help achieve new European emissions targets coming in 2021. While the Mazda MX-30 is a standalone electric vehicle, there are no definitive plans to create a separate range of EVs. Talking at Tokyo motor show, Ikuo Maeda, design and brand boss, said: “Some manufacturers are creating a separate brand for EVs, but we are not doing that. We want to establish EVs in our existing Mazda portfolio.” Mazda also wants its EVs to have the same styling as existing models. Talking about the MX-30, Maeda said: “We wanted to maintain a high quality of design. Instead of just pursuing something new simply because its EV, we want to make sure it fitted with our Kodo design language.” However, he added that the model is intended to trial a slightly different take on Mazda design. “If we don’t trial different things, design would not evolve, but the fact we did this with the MX-30 is unrelated to it being an
Origin: Mazda MX-30 spearheads electrification plans for maker
Mazda MX30 gets Tokyo debut
Mazda MX-30 gets Tokyo debut The new crossover is the first production EV from Mazda Mazda has revealed its first production EV at the Tokyo Motor Show – the MX-30. A compact crossover is a new model, rather than an added option for an existing badge. A driving range hasn’t been announced, but the battery pack will be 35.5 kWh so expect something around 130 miles on a single charge. Charging will be via a CCS inlet, with no specs for DC charging – though even 50 kW will see a good top up only take 20 minutes or so. The on-board AC charger is 6.6 kW. With a smaller battery comes shorter charging times and greater efficiency. Mazda isn’t targeting the likes of Hyundai’s Kona Electric with the MX-30, rather the Mini Electric and Honda e; stylish compact EVs with a range that comfortably exceeds most people’s daily driving needs. It also keeps weight down, so should continue Mazda’s focus on good driving dynamics for its models. The interior is made from some interesting materials, including cork in the console tray and recycled plastic bottles are used in the door trim. The entire cabin is made of environmentally friendly materials. Access is via a set of centre-opening doors, with conventional front doors complemented by a pair of shorter rear-hinged ones for access to the back.
Origin: Mazda MX30 gets Tokyo debut
First Mazda EV revealed early by Japanese media
Mazda’s first electric vehicle, leaked in the Japanese media today and to be revealed at Tokyo motor show tomorrow, develops the design language first seen on the recently launched Mazda3 to reflect “futuristic values and changing lifestyles,” said the car maker. The model, which will go on sale next year, has a coupe-like cabin and “achieves a lightweight look by adopting a unique door concept”. Mazda added that the front face bears a “friendly expression”. The interior is said to use empty spaces around the centre console to create a closeness between the driver and passenger seats. Mazda added that interior materials were chosen for comfort and “eco-friendliness”, both of which are intended to make the cabin comfortable. The model, previewed by the e-TPV prototype, will adopt an SUV bodystyle, which can more easily accommodate an underfloor battery pack. The latest information from Mazda follows confirmation last month that it would launch its first electric car on 23 October. It will use a similar set-up to the prototype, which has a 35.5kWh battery and a single electric motor delivering 138bhp and 195lb ft of torque to the the front wheels via a single-speed transmission. The EV is likely to have a range between 120 and 150 miles, similar to the new Mini Electric but significantly less than more obvious rivals, such as the 279-mile Hyundai Kona Electric. It will be able to accept 6.6kW domestic charging and 50kW public rapid charging. Mazda will also introduce a modern version of its famed rotary engine in a range-extender variant of the EV. Two years ago, Mazda boss Mitsuo Hitomi confirmed that, rather than being used in its purest form, a rotary engine will be used as an EV range-extender. He said: “The rotary engine isn’t particularly efficient to use as a range-extender, but when we turn on a rotary, it’s much, much quieter compared to other manufacturers’ range-extenders”. The Japanese firm’s range hasn’t featured a rotary-engined road car since the RX-8 went out of production in 2012, but it did produce a rotary range-extender Mazda 2 prototype – which Autocar drove – back in 2013. It has remained interested in reintroducing the technology to production since. The Mazda RX-Vision Concept, which was shown at the Tokyo motor show in 2015, used such a powertrain. Mazda has eschewed hybrid and electric models in recent years, instead choosing to focus on improving the efficiency of its petrol engines. This year, it introduced spark plug-controlled compression ignition to the latest Mazda 3, with the promise that it will “combine the economy and torque of a diesel engine with the performance and lower emissions of a petrol
Origin: First Mazda EV revealed early by Japanese media
Mazda releases more details on its first EV
Mazda’s first electric vehicle, to be revealed at Tokyo motor show next week, will develop the design language first seen on the recently launched Mazda3 to reflect “futuristic values and changing lifestyles,” said the car maker. The model, which will go on sale next year, has a coupe-like cabin and “achieves a lightweight look by adopting a unique door concept”. Mazda added that the front face bears a “friendly expression”. The interior is said to use empty spaces around the centre console to create a closeness between the driver and passenger seats. Mazda added that interior materials were chosen for comfort and “eco-friendliness”, both of which are intended to make the cabin comfortable. The model, previewed by the e-TPV prototype, will adopt an SUV bodystyle, which can more easily accommodate an underfloor battery pack. The latest information from Mazda follows confirmation last month that it would launch its first electric car on 23 October. The model, previewed by the e-TPV prototype, is expected to adopt an SUV bodystyle, which can more easily accommodate an underfloor battery pack. It will use a similar set-up to the prototype, which has a 35.5kWh battery and a single electric motor delivering 138bhp and 195lb ft of torque to the the front wheels via a single-speed transmission. The EV is likely to have a range between 120 and 150 miles, similar to the new Mini Electric but significantly less than more obvious rivals, such as the 279-mile Hyundai Kona Electric. It will be able to accept 6.6kW domestic charging and 50kW public rapid charging. Mazda will also introduce a modern version of its famed rotary engine in a range-extender variant of the EV. Two years ago, Mazda boss Mitsuo Hitomi confirmed that, rather than being used in its purest form, a rotary engine will be used as an EV range-extender. He said: “The rotary engine isn’t particularly efficient to use as a range-extender, but when we turn on a rotary, it’s much, much quieter compared to other manufacturers’ range-extenders”. The Japanese firm’s range hasn’t featured a rotary-engined road car since the RX-8 went out of production in 2012, but it did produce a rotary range-extender Mazda 2 prototype – which Autocar drove – back in 2013. It has remained interested in reintroducing the technology to production since. The Mazda RX-Vision Concept, which was shown at the Tokyo motor show in 2015, used such a powertrain. Mazda has eschewed hybrid and electric models in recent years, instead choosing to focus on improving the efficiency of its petrol engines. This year, it introduced spark plug-controlled compression ignition to the latest Mazda 3, with the promise that it will “combine the economy and torque of a diesel engine with the performance and lower emissions of a petrol
Origin: Mazda releases more details on its first EV
Mazda gives more details on its first EV
The interior of Mazda’s first electric vehicle, to be revealed at Tokyo motor show next week, has been designed to “evoke a sense of openness” through empty spaces, said the maker. Mazda said the concept uses empty spaces around the centre console to create a closeness between the driver and passenger seats. It added that interior materials were chosen for comfort and “eco-friendliness”, both of which are intended to make the cabin comfortable. The latest information from Mazda follows confirmation last month that it would launch its first electric car on 23 October. The model, previewed by the e-TPV prototype, is expected to adopt an SUV bodystyle, which can more easily accommodate an underfloor battery pack. It will use a similar set-up to the prototype, which has a 35.5kWh battery and a single electric motor delivering 138bhp and 195lb ft of torque to the the front wheels via a single-speed transmission. The EV is likely to have a range between 120 and 150 miles, similar to the new Mini Electric but significantly less than more obvious rivals, such as the 279-mile Hyundai Kona Electric. It will be able to accept 6.6kW domestic charging and 50kW public rapid charging. Mazda will also introduce a modern version of its famed rotary engine in a range-extender variant of the EV. Two years ago, Mazda boss Mitsuo Hitomi confirmed that, rather than being used in its purest form, a rotary engine will be used as an EV range-extender. He said: “The rotary engine isn’t particularly efficient to use as a range-extender, but when we turn on a rotary, it’s much, much quieter compared to other manufacturers’ range-extenders”. The Japanese firm’s range hasn’t featured a rotary-engined road car since the RX-8 went out of production in 2012, but it did produce a rotary range-extender Mazda 2 prototype – which Autocar drove – back in 2013. It has remained interested in reintroducing the technology to production since. The Mazda RX-Vision Concept, which was shown at the Tokyo motor show in 2015, used such a powertrain. Mazda has eschewed hybrid and electric models in recent years, instead choosing to focus on improving the efficiency of its petrol engines. This year, it introduced spark plug-controlled compression ignition to the latest Mazda 3, with the promise that it will “combine the economy and torque of a diesel engine with the performance and lower emissions of a petrol
Origin: Mazda gives more details on its first EV
Mazda 2 hatch upgraded with mild-hybrid tech
The Mazda 2 will gain mild-hybrid power as part of a facelift for the compact hatch, which also includes design tweaks and technology upgrades. The Japanese firm’s Ford Fiesta and Hyundai i20 rival will retain the 1.5-litre Skyactiv-G petrol engine, but is now boosted by a belt-integrated starter/generator on all manual models. It will be offered in two stages of tune, with a 74bhp version on entry level SE-L models, and a 89bhp powertrain for SE-L Nav, Sport Nav and GT Sport Nav trims. The manual versions produce 94-95g/km of CO2, depending on trim level, with a WLTP-certified combined fuel economy of 53.4mpg. Mazda cites a number of tweaks to improve the handling of its supermini, including a new urethane top mount in the rear dampers, revised power steering and the introduction of a G-Vectoring Control Plus system, which uses the brakes to aid cornering. The design changes include a revised grille with a new design closer to the Mazda 3, a wider wing, new bumper and revised LED headlights. Inside, the dashboard trim, air vents and other features have been tweaked, with new-shape seats designed to offer more comfort. Mazda also claims the use of new damping materials and the reduction in the gap around the B-pillar reduce noise and improve refinement for those inside. The entry level SE-L Mazda 2 will cost £15,795, and includes rear parking sensors, 15in alloy wheels and climate control. As well as the more powerful engine, SE-L Nav models and above gain the Mazda Connect navigation system, which is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and driver assistance features including brake assist and lane-keeping assist. SE-L Nav models start from £16,610. For £17,310, Sport Nav models add 16in alloy wheels, a gloss black grille, rear privacy glass, chrome exhausts and keyless entry. The top-rung GT Sport Nav models feature a reversing camera, leather seats, a head-up display, and heated front seats and steering wheel. Such models start from £18,110 for manual models, and £19,370 with an automatic gearbox. The revised Mazda 2 will go on sale in the UK in
Origin: Mazda 2 hatch upgraded with mild-hybrid tech
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