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Mazda6

Turbo Wonder: 2018 Mazda6

June 12, 2018 by admin 9 Comments

Finally, the Mazda6 gains the turbo kick it deserves.

2018 Mazda6 turbo.
A new grille and updated headlights with standard fog lights grace the 2018 Mazda6.

The Mazda6 has never lacked for awesomeness. At least concerning its style.

A long-missing ingredient was always a more powerful engine, one to supplement the standard powertrain, which delivers 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. This year, the new engine is in place. Or rather, the current engine has a turbocharged option.

Yes, the big news this year is the addition of a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Even bigger news would be an all-wheel-drive system on top of that. Alas, all-wheel drive isn’t even an option. For now, you have a choice of two performance flavors and five trims. Read on and we’ll take a closer look at the updated model.

2018 Mazda6: Overview

Mazda offers the 2018 Mazda6 in five trims: Sport ($23,000), Touring ($25,700), Grand Touring ($29,200), Grand Touring Reserve ($31,700) and Signature ($34,750). Add $895 for destination ($940 in Alaska).

The changes this year — beyond the newly available turbo engine — include tweaks to the exterior, a new dashboard design and improved cabin materials. Other changes for this third-generation Mazda6 include safety and technology updates.

A Matter of Style

2018 Mazda6 Turbo
New seats are among the changes for 2018.

The Mazda6 has long offered an evocative canvas. In the opinion of this writer, it is the most handsome one in the segment. The front fascia has a look that punches above the segment with its revised gaping grille and ornate “eyes.” Sweeping curves caress the body. Strong shoulders offer a glimpse of the power that now goes with the new engine. The rear deck is pulled up and has its share of creases and curves.

Inside, the Mazda6 has a new dashboard design to show for it. Specifically, you will find a seven-inch reconfigurable display. Mazda also redesigned the seats, adding high-density, vibration absorbing urethane foam. Upgraded materials include Nappa leather, ultra suede and Japanese sen wood. My test Signature model had the suede trim, which liberally covered the lower dash and door inlays. Again, this sedan punches above its weight.

Safety and Technology

The standard audio system with the 2018 Mazda6 is a six-speaker audio system, an 8-inch color screen and a rearview camera. Bluetooth, USB audio input and an auxiliary jack are also included.

Mazda supplies a control knob for its interface and it took time for me to get used to it. Essentially, you will access what you want, such as the audio system, by clicking on the command dial and finding your preferred station. It is more of a distraction than it should be.

Available equipment includes an 11-speaker Bose audio system, satellite radio and a navigation system.

On the safety front, you will find standard blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Upgrades include a smart braking system, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist and a 360-degree surround view monitor.

Under the Hood: A Closer Look at the Turbo

2018 Mazda6 turbo
Regardless of the fuel choice, the turbo engine produces 310 lb.-ft. of torque.

As expected, the Mazda6 sent my way had the turbo engine. The Sport and Touring models come with the naturally aspirated version, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox on the base model. Everywhere else is a six-speed automatic. Despite not offering a manual with the turbo, Mazda does add steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

The turbo powering the Mazda6 is the same one found under the hood of the Mazda CX-9. Mazda calls it a Dynamic Pressure Turbo system, which combines characteristics of twin-scroll and variable-geometry turbos in a small package.

The system mitigates turbo lag by restricting exhaust flow at a low RPM, enabling air or gas to move rapidly through the engine compartments. Thus, air travels to the turbocharger immediately, spooling up the same faster than with a standard turbo.

With a turbo under the hood, the Mazda6 is transformed from a mild player into a wild beast. Okay, that is a bit of an exaggeration, but the power improvement is quite noticeable. Specifically, with premium fuel powering this model, it makes 250 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Further, it still can safely take regular gasoline, although your horsepower drops to 227, while the torque performance stays the same.

Think about this for a moment: Even with regular grade (87 octane), the turbocharged Mazda6 gains a 21-percent boost in horsepower (227 v. 187), but a whopping 66-percent boost in torque (310 v. 186), regardless of the fuel used. So, there is no need to pay extra for premium gasoline, which typically costs as much as 50 cents more per gallon to gain a net 33-percent boost in horsepower. By the way, torque is measured by the power that kicks in when you’re passing.

2018 Mazda6 Turbo
This Mazda6 competes with the likes of the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord and Nissan’s Altima.

On the Road: Turbo Mazda6

As for what the turbocharged Mazda6 does on the road, it takes an already smart handling model and amplifies it. But there is one important caveat here: there is so much power sent to the front wheels that torque steer is a real thing. And despite torque vectoring technology included and designed to limit it.

2018 Mazda6 turbo
New trim materials, including ultra suede, grace some Mazda6 models.

To wit, while stopped at a traffic light and anticipating making a sharp (60-degree angle) turn, I learned just how much this model swings when pulling out of a corner. As I stepped on the gas, built up some speed and turned the steering wheel to the left, the rear wheels swung to the right. It wasn’t wholly unanticipated as I figured that this would happen.

One way to avoid the problem is by applying a light touch to the accelerator until the road evens out. That’s no fun, especially if you’re on a curvy highway entrance ramp and need to pick up speed as the lanes merge. With all-wheel drive, the rear wheels would have kicked in, stabilizing the sedan.

We got Mazda to respond to our earlier cries for a more powerful engine. Now take those cries and turn them into pleas for all-wheel drive.

Parting Thoughts: 2018 Mazda6

The world is shifting to crossovers and that means the Mazda6’s new engine arrives as consumer attention is elsewhere. Although it isn’t likely to create a net increase in sales, the new engine may very well stem the tide away from midsize sedans. Or at least this one. I’m not going to state, “too little, too late,” as some of my colleagues have opined, but there is truth in that statement.

For everyone else, the Mazda6 takes what is already a very good sedan and makes it better with the turbo option. Perhaps the only thing holding me back from giving it an unreservedly top score is a lack of an all-wheel-drive option. It is a curious omission, especially since all-wheel drive has always been an option in markets such as Japan and Europe.


2018 Mazda6 Turbo
This 2018 Mazda6 is available in five trims, including this top-shelf Signature edition.

2018 Mazda6 Specifications

Mazda 2018 Mazda6
Segment Midsize Sedan
Base Sticker Price $21,950 (plus $895 destination fee)
Price as tested $36,435 (Signature)
Standard Engine 2.5-liter, inline-four
Horsepower 187 @ 6,000 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 186 @ 4,000 RPMs
Transmission Six-speed manual or automatic
Optional Engine 2.5-liter, turbocharged inline-four
Horsepower 227/250 @ 6,500 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 310 @ 2,000 RPMs
Transmission Six-speed automatic
Seating 2+3
Curb Weight (pounds) 3,326 to 3,560
Wheelbase (inches) 111.4
Length (inches) 192.7
Width (inches) 72.4
Height (inches) 57.1
Headroom (f,r — inches) 37.4, 37.1
Legroom (f,r — inches) 42.2, 38.7
Shoulder room (f,r — inches) 55.9, 55.1
Hip room (f,r — inches) 53.5, 53.5
Storage (cubic feet) 14.7
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) N/A
Towing (pounds) NR
Payload (pounds) NR
Fuel (Premium preferred with turbo) regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 14.2
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway) 26/35 (2.5L FWD); 23/31 (turbo)
Manufacturing Plant Hiroshima, Japan

See Also — Update by Halves: 2017.5 Mazda6

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2018 cars, all-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, MAZDA, Mazda6, sedan, turbo

Luscious Premium Sedan: 2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring

January 13, 2017 by admin 12 Comments

On the road with a premium mainstream sports sedan.

2017 Mazda6
2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring edition.

The car segment is under assault with consumers preferring crossovers in greater numbers as the reason for the shrinking demand. Indeed, overall car sales (coupes, sedans, and wagons) fell by 8.1 percent in 2016 in a passenger vehicle market that rose by a net 0.4 percent.

Manufacturers have no plans to abandon the segment en masse, although the Chrysler 200 is one recent casualty in the market (the Mitsubishi Galant is another). In any case, the mainstream segment has long been led by the Toyota Camry with the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and Ford Fusion among the top sellers.

The Mazda Mazda6 (Mazda6 from this point forward) competes in this segment and typically battles lower-tier sellers such as the Volkswagen Passat for positioning. The Hyundai Sonata, Chevrolet Malibu, and Kia Optima are other models to consider.

One model rarely mentioned due to its premium status is the Buick Regal, a slightly smaller sedan that could very well be the best vehicle to consider when comparing one to the Mazda6. For it is the top-trim Grand Touring model that pulls out all the stops, supplying numerous upmarket enhancements, including a head-up display and leather interior at the top-trim level. In this example, the Grand Touring edition matches well with the Regal.

2017 Mazda6.

2017 Mazda6

The 2017 Mazda6 is available in three trims: Sport ($22,995), Touring ($25,245), and Grand Touring ($30,695). One four-cylinder engine choice is available. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard on the two lower trims, while a six-speed automatic is standard on the Grand Touring and available elsewhere.

New this year is G-vectoring control and 50-state emissions certification for PZEV models. All models receive a new exterior mirror design, specifically a turn lamp design change. Inside, you’ll also find a new steering wheel design as well as a new seat back pocket layout. Enhanced sound insulation is included as well.

Package shuffling is evident elsewhere, including the addition of a backup camera and Mazda Connect infotainment system to the base model. On the Touring model, you’ll now find smart city brake support technology along with automatic on and off headlights, and rain-sensing wipers. Additional safety and technology features accompany the Grand Touring edition.

2017 Mazda6

Mazda6 Design and a Grand Touring Edition

Although I would have been happy to drive a Mazda6 paired with a six-speed gearbox, Mazda sent a Grand Touring edition my way. So, no stick.

I wasn’t disappointed as I chose to focus on the positives and there were many to consider. Notably, the exterior design is simply phenomenal — at the risk of sounding like a Mazda sycophant, I must say that the complete design is stunning — from the trapezoidal grille to the bolstered shoulders and all the way back to the rear deck, the lines on the Mazda6 are a joy to behold.

Mazda calls the design “soul of motion” or KODO — what represents a design formulation peculiar to the brand. KODO places an emphasis on a vehicle’s elements and then adds what Mazda describes as “self-restrained dignity and sensuality.” The idea here is to connect with people on an emotional level — in my opinion, the Mazda6 is wildly successful here.

But the luscious exterior design doesn’t stop there. It extends to the interior where you’ll find sculpted lines across the dashboard, on the door panels, and across the seats. There is nothing utilitarian about the Mazda6’s interior. Especially in the Grand Touring level where you’ll find liberal use of Nappa leather and high-end material throughout. This is where a comparison to the Buick Regal is warranted — and I think the Mazda has the better interior of the two.

2017 Mazda6

Top Tech Features

I give Mazda high marks in all things technology, particularly with the Grand Touring edition. Here, you get a few features not available elsewhere, including a head-up display, an automatic dimming rearview mirror with Homelink, and a delicious Bose 11-speaker sound system.

The head-up display projects through a small, translucent screen that sits on top of the dashboard directly in front of the steering wheel. By no means is it in the way. This is the first time I’ve seen such a screen used — typically, the screen sits face down on the dash with the image projected from the screen.

Mazda’s infotainment/navigation screen is one of the best I’ve seen apart from a luxury model. The screen sits on top of the lower dash next to the ignition button. I like the maps as well as the detailed charts — the screen pinpointing the number of GPS satellite serving the car held my attention, especially as it shifted from 10 to nine and back again. You could “see” where they were located in the sky and see individual bar scores and an accuracy grade. Honestly, I wasn’t sure what each readout meant, but gosh, it certainly serves as eye candy for tech geeks.

All models come with Bluetooth, two USB ports, an auxiliary audio port, and a multifunction command controller. A rearview camera is standard and every model is equipped with a seven-inch color display.

2017 Mazda6

All Things Safety

We’d be remiss not to look at safety features, given how important this is to today’s new-car buying consumers.

For the fourth consecutive year, the Mazda6 is an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ recipient, the highest award bestowed by the institute, which is funded chiefly by the nation’s top insurance companies.

The award this year is even more significant, given that the IIHS upgraded its standards to include headlight illumination. Here, the Mazda6 performed just average, but that’s not bad given that many other models tested had failed in this new scoring category. Only a “failing” grade here would keep a model from claiming the top score.

2017 Mazda6

On the Road

Mazda offers just one engine with the Mazda6 — a 2.5-liter four-cylinder making 184 horsepower and 185 foot-pounds of torque. This high-compression engine squeezes out more power than similar-sized engines from Honda and Chevrolet, but manages to do so without having an adverse effect on fuel economy.

Models paired with an automatic transmission are currently EPA-rated at 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. If you are familiar with the model line, then you know past models were rated as high as 40 mpg, but the EPA recently recalculated fuel economy to better reflect real-world conditions according to USA Today.

Press hard on the accelerator and the Mazda6 moves away from a dead stop with authority. The engine steadily picks up speed and the transmission shifts just when you expect it to. Performance is adequate, but nothing more. Handling is balanced, the ride is smooth, and braking is firm.

What the Mazda6 lacks is either a turbo four or a naturally-aspirated V6. Most competitors offer at least two engine options (the Ford Focus offers three). Unfortunately, Mazda only offers an all-four-cylinder lineup, essentially mandating a “take it or leave it” policy when it comes to its cars. That means both the Mazda6 and the three-row CX-9 SUV rely on four-cylinder engines. So, if you want performance, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

2017 Mazda6

Parting Thoughts

To get the top end Mazda6, you’ll pay about $35,000 for a Grand Touring edition. That’s about as high you’ll go in this segment, but you’d also typically be supplied with all-wheel drive (Fusion Sport) or a V6 engine (e.g., Toyota Camry, Honda Accord or Chevrolet Malibu).

With the Mazda6 Grand Touring edition and its chief competitors, you will need to carefully compare interiors as well as amenities. The Grand Touring edition comes in at a lower price than the Buick Regal, but you don’t get an all-wheel drive option. What you do have is a roomier interior, one with no-compromise space for five and the jaw-dropping looks that simply make the Mazda6 one worth including on your upscale midsize sedan shopping list.

2017 Mazda6

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2017 cars, 2017 Mazda6, BUICK REGAL, front-wheel drive, IIHS, KODO, MAZDA, Mazda6, premium sedan

Fuel Economy Changes for Select 2014 Models

September 26, 2013 by admin Leave a Comment

Corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) represents the fleet average for automotive manufacturers nationwide. The federal government has mandated that automakers reach a 54.5 mpg threshold by 2025 with incremental increases between now and then.

To obtain ever higher fuel economy numbers, car manufacturers are downsizing models, shifting from heavier body-on-frame to lighter unibody construction, making use of smaller engines and adding a few extra gears to transmissions. Lighter weight materials, such as carbon fiber and aluminum are also being added, making it possible for cars to achieve higher year-over-year fuel economy numbers.

For the 2014 model year several vehicles are offering improved fuel economy over earlier models. Sometimes the changes are more profound as in a generational product change to more subtle changes made to engine performance.

2014 Toyota Corolla fuel economy.

2014 Toyota Corolla.

Toyota Corolla

The best selling vehicle in the world is the Toyota Corolla although some contend that the Ford Focus now outsell’s this iconic compact car. For 2014 the Corolla is all-new with a fresh face and a slightly longer wheelbase.

While the Corolla comes in a bit larger, it also is more efficient. The base 1.8-liter four cylinder engine returns and is now available with an optional “Eco” mode. As outfitted, this model is rated 30 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway, up from its previous 27 mpg around town and 34 mpg on the highway. This engine is now paired with a continuously variable transmission.

Chevrolet Malibu

Chevrolet has gotten clobbered in the midsize sedan segment despite serving up an all-new model for 2013. Its design has been criticized for not being bold enough, forcing GM to hasten its mid-cycle refresh by several years.

The refreshed Malibu now comes standard equipped with smart-stop technology what shuts off the engine when it is at idle such as at a traffic light. That move raises its fuel economy to 25 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, up from 22 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway for the 2013 edition.

2014 Mazda6 fuel economy.

2014 Mazda6.

Mazda6

The 2014 Mazda6 has been on the market for some time now. It is an all-new model employing the brand’s SKYACTIV technologies (i.e., more fuel efficient engines and transmissions, lighter weight materials) to deliver a much more fuel efficient model.

Powered by a 2.5-liter four cylinder engine paired with a semiautomatic six-speed transmission, Mazda’s midsize sedan is rated as high as 28 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. To achieve its segment leading numbers, customers will need to choose the top-of-the-line Grand Touring 2.5L with an automatic transmission and technology package. It represents a huge jump in fuel economy for a vehicle previously rated no better than 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

GMC Sierra

At first glance, the three engines found in the 2014 GMC Sierra and sister Chevrolet Silverado seem to be the same as those offered in 2013 and earlier years. However, all three are now third generation engines, sporting the EcoTec3 label. The new engines feature several changes including what is most apparent on the 5.3-liter V-8: cylinder deactivation, variable valve timing and direct injection.

The rear-wheel drive GMC Sierra equipped with the small block V-8 is now rated at 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. That is up from 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway in 2013. Importantly, the Sierra and Silverado beats competing models from Ford and Ram including Ford’s available V-6 EcoBoost engine.

2014 Mitsubishi Mirage fuel economy.

2014 Mitsubishi Mirage.

Mitsubishi Mirage

The Mitsubishi Mirage gets an honorable mention here. Because the model is all new and does not replace a previously offered vehicle, you cannot compare it with itself. The Mirage name is not new — it was used on a compact car in the 1990s and the new model is a subcompact.

Choose a 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage and pair its 1.2-liter four cylinder engine with a continuously variable transmission and your vehicle is rated at 37 mpg in the city and 44 mpg on the highway. That is best for a small car that is neither a hybrid nor a diesel. Mitsubishi credits a 0.28 coefficient of drag, variable valve engine timing and electronic power steering in helping the Mirage achieve its lofty mpg threshold.

Fuel Economy Considerations

If you were to survey the entire automotive industry over the past several years it is apparent that car manufacturers have been making incremental changes year over year. Expect to see more diesel-powered cars, hybrid electric vehicles and electric vehicles enter the mix in a bid to raise CAFE. Most consumers, however, will continue to buy conventionally powered vehicles, but those models will come in lighter and more efficient than the ones currently available.


Further Reading

Handsome Truck: 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 4×4 Crew Cab SLT

First Drive: 2014 Toyota Corolla

Buick Encore Wears Her Luxury Well

About the 2013 Infiniti M56S

Photos courtesy of Toyota, Mazda and Mitsubishi.

Filed Under: Special Tagged With: 2014 MODELS, Chevrolet Malibu, FUEL ECONOMY, GMC SIERRA, Mazda6, MITSUBISHI MIRAGE, Toyota Corolla

Midsize Mazda6 Reaches 40 MPG Threshold With i-ELOOP

July 9, 2013 by admin Leave a Comment

It is quite a feat when any vehicle makes 40 mpg on the highway. However, it is a much more noticeable accomplishment when a midsize sedan reaches that threshold and does so without a hybrid powertrain or a diesel engine under the hood. That’s exactly what Mazda has done with one version of its Mazda6 sedan, a five-passenger front-wheel drive model that has raised the fuel mileage bar.

Mazda i-ELOOP

i-ELOOP Technology

Not every 2014 Mazda6 model makes 40 mpg, but those that are equipped with its i-ELOOP brake energy regeneration system do. Regenerative braking is usually a feature of hybrid models, but Mazda has outfitted certain models with i-ELOOP.

The Mazda i-ELOOP system does what regenerative brake systems are designed to do: harness kinetic energy and reuse it as electricity. That energy is obtained whenever the sedan decelerates and is stored for later use in a variable valve alternator. Unlike conventional alternators that charge to around 12 volts, the i-ELOOP alternator stores from 12 to 25 volts.

Essentially, i-ELOOP is a three-function system that regenerates, stores and uses kinetic energy to power the headlamps, turn signals, brake lights, the audio system and other electrical components. In doing so, energy that would normally be accessed from the engine is not used, thereby increasing fuel mileage by up to 10 percent.

“Mazda is again changing the game of automotive engineering, this time making fuel efficiency not seem as a compromise but a true complementary feature as part of the complete vehicle package,” said Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO. “With the addition of i-ELOOP, the 2014 Mazda6 will achieve the best mileage for a non-hybrid midsize sedan. But fuel economy isn’t the sole focus of our engineering and design teams, as being a leader in dynamics, design and safety create a win-win for the company and consumers.”

Mazda6 Grand Touring Edition

Initially, i-ELOOP will be offered only with Grand Touring models as part of a GT Technology Package. The Mazda6 Grand Touring retails from $29,695 and the technology package adds $2,080 to that price. Besides i-ELOOP, the package includes adaptive cruise control, high beam control, a lane departure warning system, forward obstruction warning, active grille shutters and a sport mode button.

i-ELOOP

The two mpg mileage gain may not be worth the extra price consumers would pay for a full-loaded Mazda6. Indeed, the 2014 Mazda6 Sport when equipped with an automatic transmission, retails from $22,495 or about $9,000 less than an i-ELOOP-equipped model. For $24,495, the Mazda6 Touring edition brings in dual-zone climate control, larger wheels, a power drivers’ seat, rear heated seats, a touchscreen display, HD radio and select safety systems.

If you want navigation and a Bose sound system, the $29,945 Grand Touring edition provides those features while still delivering 38 mpg on the highway. So, to achieve the 40 mpg threshold you need to pay an extra $2,080, a price that also gets you additional safety features. Fully loaded, a 2014 Mazda6 pushes into luxury sedan territory, virtually matching the $33,095 starting price for the 2014 Cadillac ATS sedan. Advanced technologies come at a price, but will Mazda6 shoppers bite? That remains to be seen.

Midsize Model Class

With its new 40 mpg rating, the 2014 Mazda6 inches ahead of the Nissan Altima, rated at 27 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. Competing midsize models that also deliver excellent fuel economy include a Ford Fusion model rated at 25 mpg city and 37 mpg on the highway, the Toyota Camry rated at 25 mpg around town and 35 mpg on the highway and the Kia Optima rated as high as 24 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

There are also several hybrid models that approach the Mazda6′s price, while delivering better overall fuel economy and a suite of amenities. Auto Trends recently tested the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited, a model that is rated at 36 mpg in the city, 40 mpg on the highway and is priced from $30,550.


See Also — Luscious Premium Sedan: 2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring

Mazda6 i-ELOOP chart courtesy of Mazda North American Operations.

Filed Under: Engineering & Technology Tagged With: 40 mpg, i-ELOOP, MAZDA, Mazda6, Midsize Sedan, regenerative braking

2014 Mazda3 Packs In The Zoom-Zoom

June 28, 2013 by admin 1 Comment

Mazda took advantage of a slow early summer news cycle to unveil the next generation of its popular Mazda3 compact. Through a concerted series of reveals in five cities including New York, this Japanese automaker has followed through on its promise to raise the bar in a tightly competitive segment.

2014 Mazda3.
Mazda brings the zoom-zoom to a new generation Mazda3.

New Model: 2014 Mazda3

The new Mazda3 represents the third generation of a vehicle that has topped 3.5 million sales to more than 120 countries in 10 years. It advances the KODO design language found in the CX-5 and Mazda6, bringing forth numerous SKYACTIV technologies including new engines and transmissions. SKYACTIV is Mazda-speak for efficient engines and transmissions as well as lighter, but more rigid platforms.

Expected to arrive in Mazda dealers this fall, the 2014 Mazda3 will offer two gasoline engines displacing at 2.0 and 2.5 liters. Both engines will be mated to a six-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic transmissions.

The standard engine is rated at 155 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 150 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm. The larger engine makes 184 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 185 foot-pounds of torque at 3,250 rpm. Mazda says that performance is up by more than 10 percent over the previous MZR engine.

2014 Mazda3 Dimensions

The new model comes in lower and leaner than its predecessor and sits on a 106.3-inch wheelbase. The 2014 Mazda3 is 175.6 inches long, 70.7 inches tall and 57.3 inches wide. Interior changes free up slightly more hip and shoulder room; previous leg- and headroom capacities are preserved. Mazda tacked on two inches to the wheelbase while shaving two inches from the compacts overall length.

Mazda says that the new model will be outfitted with 16-inch steel wheels. Also available are 16- and 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Other exterior features include an active grille shutter, daytime running lamps, slanted headlamps, and sporty tail lights.

Active Driving Display

Inside, Mazda describes changes that symmetrically realign the pedals to provide improved driver comfort and safety. Its cockpit layout includes an intuitive display of buttons and knobs, to allow the driver to be more engaged with the actual art of driving. Apparently, Mazda is seeking both to raise driver comfort as well as to showcase its in-house effort to combat distracted driving.

The 2014 Mazda3 also gains a new Mazda feature: Active Driving Display. ADD represents a clear pop-up panel that displays vehicle speed, navigation directions as well as other significant driving information. Mazda says that ADD places necessary information comfortably in the driver’s line-of-sight and where a driver’s eyes are naturally focused. Notably, the display automatically folds and hides when the Mazda3 has been turned off.

New Safety Features

The 2014 Mazda3 also introduces i-ACTIVSENSE, a suite of advanced safety technologies that incorporate established and new features. i-ACTIVSENSE makes use of cameras and milliwave radars to help the driver spot road hazards, avoid wrecks and reduce damage should an accident occur. Mazda notes that i-ACTIVSENSE won’t eliminate accidents, but it can help drivers respond faster in a bid to minimize them.

The suite includes high beam control, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, forward obstruction warning, smart city brake support and Mazda radar cruise control. Smart City kicks in when the Mazda3 is traveling at speeds below 19 mph, an automatic braking system that will bring the 2014 Mazda3 to a stop if the driver fails to respond in time.

Fuel Mileage Estimates

Official fuel mileage estimates have yet to be announced, but estimates of 42 to 44 mpg on the highway have been suggested. If that threshold is reached, it would put the all-new Mazda3 at the top of the pack.

Don’t look for a diesel Mazda3, at least not initially. Although the 2014 Mazda6 will offer that option, it isn’t a feature slated for a model that competes with the Ford Focus, Toyota Corolla, Dodge Dart, Honda Civic, Chevrolet Cruze, Volkswagen Jetta, Nissan Sentra, Hyundai Elantra and the Kia Forte for customer attention.

Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operations.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: 2014 Mazda3, compact car, i-ACTIVSENSE, MAZDA, Mazda6, MPG, SKYACTIV

Diesels, They Are A-Coming

March 4, 2013 by admin Leave a Comment

Corrected: March 12, 2013

Mercedes-Benz R350

Diesels are available in European luxury cars, particularly Mercedes-Benz, Audi and BMW models driven by natty-suited professionals. Diesels are also found in heavy duty pick up trucks, and are prized by work crews and outdoors enthusiasts both. In the middle ground are the vast majority of car buyers, individuals whose diesel aspirations are limited to Volkswagen, although change is a-coming.

GM Diesels

Ford Transit
Upcoming Diesel: Ford Transit
This year, diesel models will be offered by several manufacturers including some that have not served up diesel models before. General Motors caught the diesel bug in the 1970s when 4.3-liter V-6 and 5.7-liter V-8 diesels rolled out as an option in its medium and larger cars. Those early designs were terrible as GM used the same heads as they did in its gas engines, with engine failure rampant due to the usual higher compression ratios.

In the early 1980s, GM offered an Isuzu supplied engine with its subcompact Chevrolet Chevette, a much more reliable product from its Japanese engine partner. The two companies would later team up to build Duramax diesel engines, but by that time Americas love affair with diesels had grown cold and GM only offered them in pickup trucks.

This summer the Chevrolet Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel will roll out, a model that will be powered by a four cylinder engine displacing at 2.0 liters. GMs Opel subsidiary produces these engines and has a long history of producing a quality product.

Diesel Appeal

There is a certain appeal with diesel engines not found elsewhere. These motors run more efficiently as diesel fuel burns at a much higher temperature than the typical gasoline engine for improved fuel combustion. Better energy density enables diesels to enjoy as much as a 30 percent boost in fuel efficiency. Moreover, diesels provide better torque, do not require tune ups and last longer than gasoline engines.

The downside of diesels, sooty emissions, has largely been resolved as todays engines run much cleaner thanks to improvements made in exhaust treatment. Indeed, where it was once nearly impossible and costly to comply with California’s far more stringent emissions requirements, the new breed of diesels are 50-state compliant, quieter and are still very efficient.

2011 Ford Super Duty.
Heavy duty pickup trucks are gas or turbo equipped.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

Jeep offered a common rail diesel briefly with its now-retired Liberty SUV, but dropped it because sales were slow and fuel efficiency was surprisingly disappointing. The Grand Cherokee, too, offered a diesel for 2007 and 2008, but unlike the VM Motori-supplied engine in the Liberty, its engine came from Daimler.

With FIAT now firmly in control of Jeep, we will begin to see new engines for this Chrysler Group brand.

The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a 3.0-liter V-6 turbo-diesel, making 240 horsepower and delivering 30 mpg on the highway. That engine comes by way of VM Motori of Cento, Italy, a company jointly owned by Fiat and General Motors. Both companies tap VM for its engineering services as well as for its diesel engines. Expect the refreshed Jeep Wrangler, due out for model year 2015, to offer this engine.

Mazda Diesel

2014 Mazda6Japanese manufacturers have proven to be just a capable as the Europeans in building quality diesels. Besides Isuzu, Honda builds diesels and had been expected to sell an Accord Diesel before scrapping its plans in 2010. Toyota, Subaru and Nissan make diesels too, although you cant buy one in the United States.

Mazda will crack the U.S. diesel market for the 2014 model year when its all-new Mazda6 adds one to the line up. The engine is new, has the lowest compression ratio of any diesel in the world, and is outfitted with ceramic glow plugs to get it going on cold days. It features a variable exhaust valve lift to help circulate engine warming gases faster reports the BBC.

Diesel Revolution

Of course, no diesel compilation is complete without mentioning the huge contribution that the German manufacturers have made, particularly by showing leadership in the light-duty and nontruck diesel arena.

Volkswagen Golf DieselStricter EPA emission requirements forced the German automakers to retool and by 2009 the first batch of new wave diesel engines rolled out. Volkswagen offers diesels in multiple models including various Jetta, Beetle, Golf and Passat editions. The midsize Passat, for instance, gets 43 mpg, rivaling gasoline-electric hybrids. The Volkswagen Group will also supply a diesel for the Porsche Cajun SUV later this year, joining the Audi line in offering a high-luxe model.

Looking Ahead

Diesel engines are a-coming and are already here. Likely, if diesel variants of the Chevrolet Cruze, Mazda Mazda6 and the Jeep Grand Cherokee show much promise, we will see many more diesels from other manufacturers roll out in coming years. Diesels and hybrids offer near equivalent fuel economy as well as vehicle pricing, two important powertrain options car manufacturers may use to meet ever higher EPA fuel mandates.


See Also — Diesel Does It: Range Rover HSE

Photos courtesy of the respective manufacturer.

Filed Under: Engineering & Technology Tagged With: AUDI, CHEVROLET CRUZE, DIESEL ENGINES, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Mazda6, Porsche, Volkswagen

Small Mazda is Big on its Future

January 4, 2013 by admin Leave a Comment

Among car manufacturers with a presence in the United States, Mazda is small and easily outsold by more than half the market players. In recent years the company has sought to separate itself from the Ford Motor Company while some of its closest rivals including Subaru, Isuzu and Daihatsu, are now partially owned by the Japanese mothership, Toyota.

Japanese Exit

Mazda CX-5Isuzu and Daihatsu no longer sell cars in the US and Suzuki is the next player that is wrapping up its American dealer network. Mitsubishi continues to struggle and may make its exit next, leaving just Subaru and Mazda standing in addition to Toyota, Honda and Nissan.

That Mazda remains viable is a credit to its management team especially as it has seen Fords stake whittle from 33.4 percent in 2008 to just 3.5 percent today. The two companies previously collaborated on several models including cars and SUVs. That collaboration has ended with both companies now building separate platforms for previously related products.

US Sales

Mazda’s December US sales rose by 21.6 percent and finished up by 10.6 percent for 2012. Although the year-over-year gain is below the 13.4 percent market increase for the year, it is a good sign that Mazda is still being taken seriously by consumers. Mazdas gains were below Toyota, Honda and Subaru, but came in at a faster clip than Nissan, Ford and GM. In comparison, Mitsubishi’s sales tumbled by 26.9 percent.

2014 Mazda6Mazda has long counted on the Mazda3 to provide about half of its sales. This compact car is quite easily one of the best in its segment, prized for its sporty looks, good handling and very good gas mileage. The Mazdaspeed3 is its halo, performance model, a five-door hatchback that features an all-aluminum 2.3-liter in-line four cylinder engine and a track-tuned suspension. For 2012, the Mazda3 made up 44 percent of its US sales.

SKYACTIV Technologies

Relying on one model especially a compact vehicle is not a plan for success. New technologies, including its SKYACTIV family of lightweight and efficient engines and transmissions, are beginning to roll out across the Mazda lineup, beginning with the CX-5 and soon extending to the 2014 Mazda6 midsize sedan. That sedan will be priced from $20,880 and is EPA-rated at 38 mpg on the highway, tying the segment-leading Nissan Altima. This vehicle is rated 26 mpg around town.

How long Mazda will maintain its mostly independent path is not known. However, with a bevy of exciting and fuel efficient models on tap including European models equipped with diesel engines, its short-term future should be good. Down the road as the industry continues to consolidate Mazda may find hooking up with a suitor or forming an alliance will be to its liking. In the meantime, concern that this Japanese brand might beat Mitsubishi to the exit door seem unfounded, an unlikely prospect at that.


See Also — Snazzy SUV: 2016 Mazda CX-5

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: Japanese cars, MAZDA, MAZDA CX-5, Mazda3, Mazda6, SKYACTIV

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