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2017 Mazda CX-5 Gets 3 New Powertrains
Mazda finally revealed its redesigned CX-5 for the 2017 model year. One of Mazda’s most popular vehicle, this compact crossover SUV has received some fresh upgrades, mainly when it comes to its powertrains.
This redesigned CX-5 will start appearing in showrooms next spring as a 2017 model. It made its formal debut on Wednesday at the Los Angeles Auto Show. This will be first launched in Japan before rolling out to other markets.
Mazda remains mum in interviews on what exactly changed in the new CX-5. What if confirmed, though, are three new powertrains to choose from—two gasoline units and one diesel.
3 New Powertrains
Basically, Mazda said the CX-5 will have a 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engines, the same ones in the current CX-5. These two will most likely be able to produce 155 and 184 horsepower, respectively.
As for the diesel options, it’s going to be a 2.2-liter engine. There’s no word yet whether it’s coming to the US, or will simply be an offering in Asian markets.
If you’re wishing for the CX-5 diesel option, you’d have to wait for while more. Mazda has been saying that a diesel engine option will be made available for the CX-5 for years. There has been no report of that until now.
KODO Design
Aside from Mazda’s Skyactiv design principles, it will also use its KODO design language. The combination is potent because what came out of it is an affordable crossover that stands out both in looks and performance.
The KODO lines allowed Mazda to redesign the CX-5 without going overboard. This styling trend became more prominent, thanks to the arrival of the 4th generation MX-5 Miata and the latest CX-9. Now, the rest of the lineup has been using the same design trend.
New Paint Color
The CX-5’s looks will be further upgraded because of a stunning new color named Soul Red Crystal. By using the Takuminuri paint technology, the new paint job has a high-quality finish. However, Mazda was not done yet. It added aluminum flakes and a translucent layer for that very deep and saturated red color.
2017 Mazda CX-4 To Be Unveiled At Beijing Motor Show
Mazda introduced the Mazda Koeru concept during last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, promising to venture into the growing crossover SUV segment. This is the answer to that—the Mazda CX-4. It came sooner than expected, but who’s really complaining?
Most upcoming models come as prototype, but based on a source, the CX-4 was immediately spotted in production in Asia late 2015. By the beginning of 2016, Mazda has confirmed this and said it will be unveiled at the 2016 Beijing Auto Show this April.
The CX-4 will walk on that thin line between Mazda 3 and CX-5, so it will probably be the sportier, coupe version of the CX-3.
Mazda has already released a few teaser photos for the CX-4, and we can’t help but be charmed by it. The CX-4 will have the same features such as the KODO-styled front end, massive grille, and sculpted engine hood. Koeru’s grille frame extends into the headlamps—a feature not available on current Mazda units.
Koeru has a sporty profile, and we can see this on the CX-4 with its roof sitting slightly higher and its door handles having standard design.
Inside, the CX-4 interior is not as fancy as the current CX-5. But this doesn’t mean the CX-4 will have no premium features since it comes with aluminum inserts, leather, contrast stitching, and overall fit-and-finish.
Since the CX-4 is configured to become a coupe, it will feel less roomy than the CX-5.
No exact word yet on the vehicle’s powertrain, but it might actually not go too far off and remain inspired by the CX-5. That one has 2.0-liter SkyActiv unit rated at 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque in entry-level guise and a more powerful 2.5-liter SkyActiv with 184 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque.
Choices for transmission would make us pick between a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic.
If it will cost as much as the CX-5, then you better prepare around $21,795.
Mazda MX-5 Debuts with a Hard-Top
Everyone who’s been waiting for Mazda’s idea of a hard-top convertible can rest their cases. The company just lifted the curtains off its new Mazda MX-5 “Retractable Fastback,” named in honor of its new roofing system.
This is the fourth generation Mazda MX-5 with a 911 Targa-style top, which would lift at the push of a button. The roof folds automatically into the rear at a speed of up to 6mph. And you don’t even have to worry that the folded up roof will take up some boot space at the rear. This is not the case with the MX-5 RF. It basically offers the same space as the soft-top MX-5.
But that’s not the only thing you should look out for the Mazda MX-5 RF. It also has a unique rear roof and retractable back window that offers a new open-air feeling.
The new model will feature either of the two engines namely the SKYACTIV-G 1.5 or SKYACTIV-G 2.0 gasoline engine, depending on the market. The model coming to US shores will have the SKYACTIV-G 2.0.
The convertible would also come packed with a six-speed automatic transmission. There’s no word yet on how much this would weigh, but it is estimated to be somewhere over the standard car’s 1,075 kilograms figure.
The Mazda MX-5 RF is being offered also in the new Machine Grey paint. It uses three coats but requires further details, which we don’t have at the moment since Mazda has yet to release full specifications for the MX-5 RF.
This new hard-top Mazda will make its world debut at the 2016 New York Auto Show, which will be open to the public from March 25 to April 3. Mazda is also expected to launch the Mazda CX-9, and feature current available models such as the Mazda 6, Mazda 3, Mazda CX-5, Mazda CX-3 and Mazda MX-5.
2016 Mazda CX-9 Priced At $31,520
After promising fuel economy, elegant interior and superior handling dynamics, Mazda has released its pricing and packaging information for the 2016 Mazda CX-9, the midsize three-row crossover SUV that the company has been boasting about.
According to a press release, the CX-9 will retail starting at $31,520.
Robert Davis, senior vice president of Mazda’s US operations, said the company has high expectations for the crossover SUV. As a flagship, the CX-9 will be the starting point of all innovative technologies Mazda will test on their upcoming vehicles.
As a Sport trim variant, the CX-9 will come with LED headlights and taillights, much like the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata roadster. It will also have fabric seating, electronic parking brake, 18-inch wheels, rear backup camera, trailer stability assist, Mazda Connect infotainment with commander control, and a seven-inch display.
In the Sport package, potential buyers can choose to add power driver’s seat, heated front seats and heated door mirrors.
The Touring, on the other hand, has an auto-dimming rearview mirror, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, Homelink garage door openers, black- or sand-colored leather seating, Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry System, power liftgate, power front seats, and an eight-inch Mazda Connect touchscreen display.
Buyers can also choose among other variants—Touring Premium Package, Grand Touring Model, and the Signature.
All of the models come packed with Mazda’s new turbocharged SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine that generates 310 lb-ft of torque from just 2,000 rpm on either 87- or 93-octane gasoline. It also produces 250 horsepower on 93-octane gasoline (227 horsepower on 87-octane), and has the standard SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed automatic transmission either in front-wheel or i-ACTIV all-wheel drive.
The 2016 Mazda CX-9 is expected to be on sale in the US this late spring with pricing starting at $31,520 for the CX-9 Sport, $35,970 for CX-9 Touring, $40,170 for CX-9 Grand Touring, and $44,015 for CX-9 Signature (AWD Standard).
A Look at the Mazda CX-4 Before The Beijing Auto Show
Mazda is joining the coupe-like crossover bandwagon with the CX-4, and we couldn’t be any more excited. Glimpses of the new crossover from Mazda were seen recently, and it looks to be very promising.
The CX-4 will make its world debut next month at the 2016 Beijing Auto Show, but a single teaser shot was released to make us think more about what this crossover is bringing to the table.
The CX-4 will come into sale later this year, so this will most likely be a 2017 model, sources have been saying. It was first hinted by the Koeru concept car at the 2015 Frankfurt Auto Show, but no details have been released since then whether the project was pushing through or not.
There was a long discussion about where the CX-4 would stand back when it hasn’t been given that name. But now that Mazda has confirmed the name, it looks to be sitting in between Mazda’s CX-3 and CX-5, both high-profile vehicles. The company also said it would be sportier that other tall wagons.
Based on the single photo, the CX-4 will most likely resemble the CX-5. They will also share the same platform, as well as a slew of other features, including the same 8.8 wheelbase and engine offerings.
If we are to follow CX-5’s platform, then this would mean the CX-4 will either have the 2.0-liter four-cylinder capable of 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque or the more potent 2.5-liter four cylinder that has 184 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque.
There were rumors that the CX-4 will only come in sale in China, but let’s hope these are mere unfounded rumors.
The 2016 Beijing Auto Show isn’t until April 25, so that’s a long wait for more information about the Mazda CX-4. Although judging from the single photo the company released, it looks to be worth the wait.
Source: Car and Driver
Mazda To Debut MX-5 Miata Power Retractable Hard Top
Sources have been abuzz that Mazda will introduce during the New York Auto Show later this month a Power Retractable Hard Top version of its MX-5 Miata.
Mazda has confirmed already that there are plans to unveil a new model during the auto show, but no details have been released regarding the said launch. What the company did say is that it would be a “world premiere” and that the car will “blow the lid off.”
With such a description, it may be safe to assume that a retractable hard top is on its way for the MX-5 Miata, currently in its fourth generation and is only available as a soft-top convertible.
This was quite a curious move for Mazda since other models have already offered both a soft-top and hard-top retractable roof. There was even one with a fixed roof.
To say that the company is simply bowing down to measure is quite an understatement. It has a valid, logical reason as to why it would introduce a retractable hard top. Since its introduction back in 2007, the variants with the PRHT have created huge following in the Miata family.
Mazda said that the hard top variant would be lighter than the ones fitted on previous models. This would, of course, help in the speed and power of the Miata. It would also provide a more compact look, and would free up extra cargo capacity.
Although the top would most likely add a bit of a weight to the roadster, this would still be popular for people living in the colder part of the world.
Under the hood, the same would probably be found in the MX-5 Miata—a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine at 155 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. Buyers can choose between a standard six-speed manual transmission and an optional six-speed automatic unit.
More details would be revealed at the New York Auto Show, so stay tuned.
Mazda CX-9 All Set to Conquer the Roads in 2016
In the vehicle world, some times one is not enough. In fact, even two is not enough. Some times, too many do the trick, which, actually sounds really great. After all, everyone who watches the motor world closely is always waiting for as many new entries as possible. It won’t be an exaggeration to say that their calendars are all marked according to when a certain favorite is going to hit the road, what are its variants and what it is priced at. It is so thrilling to just wait with a bated breath when one after the other, thrill rolls your way. But what would you say if a company is on a new car spree? What company exactly are we talking about, you must be wondering. Well, it is none other than Mazda that is ready with not one or two but five brand new creations that are going to be out soon. Among them is the upcoming Mazda CX-9 2016 that has already seen two redesign phases and is now going to take just some more time to come your way.
What is it about the upcoming Mazda CX-9 2016 that has gotten people so interested? Well, it is like serving a familiar dish to them only with more garnishing. So whatever little we know about this one, we are producing it right here. It is mainly targeted at the US market and while it may disappoint many, it is not as if other countries won’t ever get to savor its magic. But exactly how long that will take is hard to tell. The new creation by Mazda, it is said is going to be fixed with a changed and more evolved drive unit. This is just about it however, for there is very little known about the exteriors of the upcoming Mazda CX-9 2016. There is definitely more light that we can throw on the engine of this new magic machine. It is said that while currently the model running on the roads is fixed with Ford V6 engine, this one is going to give that a miss. There is definitely a chance that the six-cylinder engine is going to find place in place of the four-cylinder turbo petrol engine.
What we have also heard is that it will have impressive fuel efficiency, something that many people consider and expect from a car of this age and time. After all, when there are new generation engines, it is only normal that there will come a certain level of fuel economy with them, certainly more than what is available with the engines that are already there. There is some more news on the new Mazda CX-9 SUV. So, news has it that there will be a variant of the same that will have the V6 engine at the core. It could be a diesel one, something that has never happened before. Which is what makes Mazda CX-9 worth waiting for.
2016 Mazda CX-9 Interestingly Redesigned
For 2016, every SUV maker is doing what all they can do. It seems that Mazda has a lot on their platter. The most exciting offering from their buffet of SUVs’ is 2016 Mazda CX-9, which has got its clearance for production and has been speculated to be a lot more interesting than its potential rivals. If you are looking for a spacious touring vehicle that can meet your several urban commuting requirements then surely Mazda CX-9 for 2016 is your best bet.
The flagship model of Mazda CX-9 was launched in 2007 and since then it has remained in constant demand. Inclusion of several characteristic features over the years have made 2016 Mazda CX-9 a proper SUV. The sturdily designed CX-9 is meant to withstand excess pressure with ease and its exterior is highly dynamic with sleet and muscular build. For 2016 Mazda CX-9 designs, the company has borrowed designing cues from its previous models such as Mazda 3, 6 and Miata, but the details picked from these versions are so minute that only a SUV specialist can identify them. It has been expected that the company might increase the base dimensions for Mazda CX-9, which will eventually increase the interior space and also improve the driving dynamics. In terms of exterior designing, the new Mazda CX-9 is expected to have a sport new front grille, cluster of head lamp and new mufflers in the proto type models. But their production variants details are still very far from their launch date.
Company has still not revealed any information relating to 2016 Mazda CX-9’s interior trim levels, comfort and other important aspects, but considering the specifications of all the predeceasing models of Mazda CX-9, it is expected to have high levels of comfort and luxurious interiors. It has also been speculated that the increased cabin space will also enhance boot space along with the overall appearance of the SUV. Inclusion of additional head, leg and shoulder will only make value addition to the comfort of long journeys also passengers can use the entire boot space neatly for stuffing all their belongings.
The 2016 Mazda CX-9 will be sporting a turbo charged V6 engine block which has been directly lifted from the current model. But experts are expecting Mazda to make minor power enhancements in its engine to improve performance but nothing is finalized. Insiders from the car maker are also hinting towards the inclusion of new power terrains, but the official info is yet to arrive. Mazda might also work on something new like a hybrid version for 2016 Mazda CX-9 to take on the competition as most of the car makers these days are focusing on powerful and fuel efficient eco friendly versions of their loved SUVs.
Because Mazda will be facing stiff competition from its low end British and German car makers, thus the price of 2016 Mazda CX-9 will play a vital role in determining its market position. The next generation model is expected to be more than its current generation vehicle which has now become dated and out of context, so all the SUV lovers are keeping their fingers crossed to witness the launch of the most amazing futuristic SUV from Mazda.
2014 Mazda CX-5: The Beefier and Better Crossover
The driver pleasing Mazda CX 5 is back in 2014 and that too with the bang on Touring and Grand Touring Models offering front wheel and all wheel drive options to choose from. Now the compact SUV lovers can also find 184 hp, 2.5 liter inline four in 2014 Mazda CX-5 which is also a high selling point of Mazda6 Sedan. However, going a step ahead from its previous versions, the SUV also sports useful and additional 29hp along with 35 lb-ft of output and all is made available even in the basic sport trim level. Option of automatic and manual gearbox, Mazda built six speed automatic transmission to mate with 2.5 liter CX-5 and an additional piece of Mazda’s Skyactive technology are some things to look out for in the futuristic SUV.
Undoubtedly the all new 2014 Mazda CX-5 has set the soaring high standards for compact SUVs with its smooth handling and driver enjoyment, however the 2.5 liter dispense manages to offer only modest acceleration. Its takes approx 9s for 0 to 60 mph acceleration, but Mazda claims to offer 8s assurance with 2.5 liter version. Competitors offering turbocharged and V-6 engine options are still way ahead from the 2014 Mazda CX-5, but when it comes to driving in twisting tough roads, the car comes as a winner.
The automatic version is surprisingly quick, adept and downshifts crisply with the less sharp upshifts. The base architecture of CX-5 might be copied from Mazda 6, but it lacks paddle shifter or manual gearbox which is a apart of sedan. Like earlier versions, this time as well 2014 Mazda CX-5 offers handling balance, steering wheel, braking feel, ride control and a lot more beyond the ordinary levels of SUVs offered in this class.
The weight of the compact SUV gets modified with the trim level you wish to buy, as the weight gain with new engine has gone only about 100pounds up approximately. The fully loaded diesel version we test drove is packed with standard Mazda features that prominently include electronic gewgaws, 5.8 inch touchscreen, big console dial/mouse device, easier panel to adjust radio volume and station, dedicated knobs and buttons for tweaking climate control system. The design and finishing of the new 2014 Mazda CX-5 is done keeping in mind real people driving in real world, so hats off to the designers.
Although the compact SUV by Mazda is packed with adequate power but it also lags behind with its one negative point, which is occasional intrusion of road noise over coarse road surfaces. Although Mazda is considered quieter than its competitors but this time it disappointed in that department. Clean and functional interior design might look bland to those who have good experience with top end SUV models going beyond $30,000. At this price, Buick Encore has better and luxurious trimmings to admire.
The 2014 Mazda CX-5 has no competition in driving enjoyment that comes with all round balance and excellent ride charm, until you start looking for accelerative thrills to have fun drive above everything else.
Ford Escape vs. Mazda CX-5 – Full Comparison
Ford Escape VS Mazda CX-5
If you find yourself being forced to flip a coin between the Ford Escape and Mazda CX-5, you are not alone. These are two hot vehicles with their own list of fantastic qualities. On one hand, you have Escape, which pretty much dominates the small crossover segment. Then, you have CX-5, an all-new vehicle that has a lot to love. So, do you choose the vehicle with proven reliability, or do you opt for a vehicle that you won’t see very many of yet on the roads of wherever you happen to live?
Performance
There are three engine choices available in Ford Focus, but two for Mazda CX-5. Mazda gives its small crossover a hearty 2.0-liter four-cylinder that is good for 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual is standard, but a six-speed automatic is available, and must be selected to have all-wheel drive. This is a fairly light vehicle, so despite the small engine, acceleration speeds are decent, taking 9.3 seconds to reach 60 mph. Mazda says it’s CX-5 will yield 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. For more power, there is a 2.5-liter SKYACTIVE®-G available that generates 184 horsepower.
The base engine on Escape is a little more powerful than CX-5. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder offers 168 horsepower and 167 pound-feet of torque, and returns 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. A turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-4 is standard on SE and SEL. It delivers 178 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, and can generously tow 3,500 pounds, when properly equipped. Lastly, a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 is standard on Titanium and optional on SE and SEL. It produces 240 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque yet manages to yield 25 mpg combined. All-wheel drive is available on all models, except the “S” trim.
Driving and Handling
When it comes to handling, Escape has earned its reputation as a spirited and easy-to-drive vehicle. Many slip behind the wheel expecting it to be awkward and clumsy, due to size, but it is surprisingly agile. Everything from the braking to the steering to the suspension is more than capable, and you don’t feel much body roll on winding roads.
CX-5 does not have the reputation Escape has, but it only takes one test drive to find that the new vehicle handles itself quite nicely on the road. It is not the fastest or quietest choice, but the ride is smooth, comfortable and capable.
Safety
There is something to be said about buying a vehicle with a trusted reputation, especially if safety is on your mind. However, CX-5 has already been put through roof, front and side-impact crash tests, and received top safety scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
CX-5 has high tensile steel reinforcements and side-impact door beams to help keep passengers safe. If there is an accident, the fuel cuts off, and blind-spot monitoring is also available. Escape gives you a long list of safety features that faithful Ford buyers have grown to appreciate and even expect, such as post-collision safety system, tire-pressure monitoring, turn signal mirrors and engine immobilizer.
Exterior
You can’t go wrong with the exterior of either of these vehicles. Although CX-5 is a brand new vehicle, Escape is fully redesigned for the model year, so either way, you will be cruising around in something fresh and exciting.
Escape boasts a little international lineage that you can see in the harmonic balance created by an athletic stance and graceful lines. From its sculpted wheel arches to its trapezoidal-shaped lower grille to the bright dual exhaust tips, this is a vehicle that will turn heads from every angle.
CX-5 boasts Mazda’s “Soul of Motion” design philosophy with fluent and flowing lines that make the vehicle appear as though it is always in motion. It also offers some fantastic wheel choices in 17, 18 and 19-inch sizes.
Interior
The cabin in both of the vehicles will impress you. They are both thoughtfully designed and modern, and offer a surprising amount of room. Ford’s redesign for Escape leaves it with an upscale feel. Gauges are easy-to-read and controls are in reach. The materials used offer an improved quality; this is just a nice cabin to be in. Plus, the front seats are generously padded and given plenty of bolstering for support.
A highlight for CX-5 would have to be the black gauges that have white lettering. They are incredibly easy to read and almost soothing on the eyes. There are plenty of soft-touch surfaces, and an abundance of legroom can be appreciated in both rows.
These vehicles are neck-and-neck in terms of cargo space. Behind the front seats, Mazda CX-5 offers 65 cubic feet while Escape is at 68.1 cubes.
Technology and Entertainment
There is absolutely no shortage of technology in either of these vehicles. In fact, you may forget you are in such a modestly priced vehicle when you see all the bells and whistles. A huge highlight for Escape is the foot-activated tailgate. SYNC® lets you use voice commands to control just about everything from Bluetooth to audio. Speaking of audio, the available Sony® system is well worth upgrading to as it gives you 10 premium speakers, a dual-channel subwoofer, HD Radio, iTunes® Tagging and 355 watts of power.
CX-5 has a nine-speaker Bose® system available that offers Pandora®, HD Radio, and SiriusXM Satellite Radio. Plus, it has a fantastic optional navigation system by TomTom® that includes a 5.8-inch display with voice recognition.
Image thanks to www.goauto.com.au