According to February VFACTS figures, Mazda3 found 6,613 new homes (year-to-date) after also topping the small car charts in January, while the CX-7 sold 944 units for the month of February.

The larger CX-9 also saw a healthy start to the year with Mazda delivering 785 units since January 1.

The news also signals an increase in market share for Mazda, who as Australia’s top-selling full-line vehicle importer, now holds a year-to-date figure of 8.7 per cent.

“We’re just absolutely delighted to see that, for the second month in a row, Mazda3 has outperformed every other small car in the country,” said Mazda Australia Managing Director, Mr Doug Dickson.

“We knew we were on a good wicket when the New Generation Mazda3 was introduced last year, but I must say it’s great to see that Australian consumers recognise Mazda3 for the outstanding value for money and stylish package it is.

“Mazda3’s ongoing sales success coupled with a strong month for Mazda CX-7 has really kick-started what I hope will be another fantastic year for Mazda.”

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

Mazda CX-9 Launched

Despite the Happy Face portfolio, Mazda seems to be doing everything perfectly at the moment. Who ever is in charge of Mazda designs needs to be given a raise as there is not even one remotely unlovable model in the company’s stable.

Today sees the release of the refreshed 7-seat Mazda SUV, the Mazda CX-9. Apart from the exterior facelift, Mazda has tinkered with the engine to produce an improved fuel economy figure of 12.2L per 100km (previously 13.0L) and has an improved CO2 emission rating to 291g/km (was 309).

The new Mazda CX-9 starts from $49,990 and is available in three models: Classic, Luxury and the all-new Grand Touring.

Mazda has reduced the price of the revised CX-9 with the Classic model now $2,000 cheaper than the equivalent outgoing model and Luxury $3,115 less.

The facelift comes right on schedule with the CX-9 being out for 22 months. The Mazda CX-9 sits above the CX-7 as Mazda’s largest vehicle with approximately 70,000 CX-9s sold worldwide so far (~7,500 in Australia). Despite the similarities, the CX-9 does not share the same platform as the CX-7.

From the outside the facelifted Mazda CX‐9 shows off a bolder and more sophisticated design with Mazda focusing on putting on the five point grille ‘family face’ (a.k.a happy face). As a result of the new design the Coefficient drag has also been reduced to 0.365 (was 0.37).

The new range includes a whole list of additional equipment upgrades such as satellite Navigation (available as an option on CX‐9 Luxury and standard on CX‐9 Grand Touring), Bluetooth® functionality, heated 3‐position memory side mirrors, smart keyless entry and engine start and remote operated power tailgate with open/close (depending on grade)

Engine wise little has changed with the CX‐9’s 3.7 litre V6 24‐valve DOHC petrol engine still producing 204kW @ 6,250rpm and 367Nm of torque @ 4,250rpm. The V6 is coupled to a 6-speed Activematic transmission which drives the wheels via Mazda’s on-demand Active Torque Split (ATS) all-wheel drive system. It will go from 0-100km/h in 8.5 seconds.

Safety has always been at the very top of Mazda’s design philosophy, hence the facelift CX-9 carries through all the active and passive safety technologies including: ABS, DSC, TCS, RSC, EBA, EBD, and 6 SRS airbags. However front active head restraints are now standard across the range.

Mazda has also retuned the front suspension for improved ride and comfort.

Standard features across the range include three-zone climate control air-conditioning, alloy wheels, cruise control and power windows and mirrors, MP3/WMA compatible CD player, a reversing camera with rear parking guidelines.

Mazda Australia expects to sell around 260 CX‐9’s per month with the following model split (lifecycle
average):

• Mazda CX‐9 Classic 26%
• Mazda CX‐9 Luxury 60%
• Mazda CX‐9 Grand Touring 14%

Mazda CX‐9 Classic, from $49,990 (Manufacturer List Price)

Mazda CX-9 specifications

Powertrain:

• - 3.7 litre V6 24 valve DOHC S‐VT engine
• - 204kW and 367Nm
• - 76L fuel tank
• - 91 RON regular unleaded petrol
• - fuel economy of 12.2L/100km (was 13.0)
• - CO2 emission rating of 291g/km (was 309)
• - Coefficient of drag of 0.365 (was 0.37)

Drivetrain:

• - Active Torque Split all‐wheel drive ATS system

Transmission:

• - 6‐speed Activematic

Safety:

• - front (driver and passenger), side (front) and curtain (front and rear) SRS airbags
• - ABS, TSC, EBD, EBA, RSC
• - Front Active head restraints

Audio:

• - 4.3 inch full colour LCD display with:
• • reversing camera
• • AM/FM tuner
• • 6‐disc CD player (MP3/WMA compatible)
• • auxiliary input for MP3 player

Features:

• - seating for up to 7 adults plus luggage
• - new high‐quality soft‐touch cloth seat trim – Nagare inspired
• - three‐zone climate control air‐conditioning
• - auto on/off headlamps and rain‐sensing wipers
• - double‐opening centre console
• - power windows and mirrors
• - remote keyless entry
• - 18 inch alloy wheels
• - halogen headlamps
• - body coloured exterior door handles

CX‐9 Luxury, from $56,990 (Manufacturer List Price)
CX‐9 Classic plus:

• - heated door mirrors with 3‐position memory function and reverse tilt‐down function
• - power‐sliding glass sun‐roof
• - front seats with:
• • 3‐position memory function (driver)
• • 4‐way power adjustment (passenger)
• • 8‐way power adjustment (driver)
• • heating function (driver and passenger)
• • seat base tilt adjustment (driver)
• - new high‐quality black leather seat trim
• - premium Bose® amplifier and 10 speakers (with subwoofer)
• - 20 inch alloy wheels
• - chrome exterior door handles

CX‐9 Luxury with Sat Nav, from $60,313 (Manufacturer List Price)
CX‐9 Luxury plus:

• ‐ 7 inch touch screen satellite navigation with:
• • Bluetooth® (hands‐free compatible) with audio profile
• • Bluetooth® audio (MP3 player compatible)
• • reversing camera
• • single‐disc CD player (MP3/WMA compatible)

CX‐9 Luxury Grand Touring, from $63,186 (Manufacturer List Price)
CX‐9 Luxury with Satellite Navigation plus:

• - xenon headlamps
• - remote operated power tailgate (open/close)
• - smart keyless entry and engine start

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

To coincide with the release of its face-lifted Mazda CX-9, the ‘Grand Touring’ model will offer a high level of equipment to the seven-seat SUV range.

The model will sit atop the CX-9 Classic and CX-9 Luxury models respectively, two models that have proved popular sellers since their launch here in 2007.

The CX-9 range continues to be powered by a refined version of the same 3.7-litre V6 (petrol) engine which delivers 204kW/367Nm.

All CX-9 models are exclusively equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission driving all wheels via Mazda’s Active Torque Split AWD system.

Fuel economy has now been improved to just 12.2 litres per 100km (combined average) and emissions remain compliant with Euro Stage IV regulations.

Pricing and full specifications will be released in the coming weeks.

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

Despite this the latest version of the CX-9 has just been revealed at the New York Motor Show and the Japanese company says it has received a significant exterior and interior facelift, added options and reinforced safety features.

Mazda says that the CX-9 was an instant success when it first hit the market in 2007, raising the bar for three-row crossover SUVs.

And it claims that from its dynamic styling and safety to versatility and performance, Mazda’s flagship crossover SUV continues to wow customers and automotive critics alike as it moves into its fourth year of production.

At New York Mazda said that as is also the case with other recent vehicles in the Mazda line-up, the 2010 CX-9 receives a Nagare-inspired exterior and interior. Wrapped from front to rear with subtle design cues that express the “embodiment of motion,” the exterior of the CX-9 is sleek and sophisticated for 2010.

Key enhancements include:
* New family face features including a bolder five-point grille, radiator grille, front combination lamps and fog lamps
* New 20-inch and 18-inch wheel design
* Larger, more aerodynamic side mirrors
* Rear garnish, which compliments the look of the front fascia design
* Rear combination lamps that mimic the same Nagare-inspired texture as front lamps, while incorporating a new red lens at the bottom to show stability
* New exterior color – Dolphin Gray

A 204kW, 3.7-litre, V6 engine powers the revised CX-9, which Mazda says makes the most complex pursuits as easy and as pleasurable as possible.

The Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system supports the driver when changing lanes on roads and highways, and at speeds of 35km/h or more, the system monitors areas on both sides of the vehicle to the rear.

Mazda CX-9 is offered in three trim levels: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. All models include air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, trip computer, cruise control, six air bags, Bluetooth® phone capability and a choice of black or beige interior hues.

Mazda CX-9 offers as optional features a factory towing package, power sunroof, BOSE® audio system, power lift gate, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

Pricing starts from $49,990 for the Classic and $57,265 for the Luxury. Both models are equipped with with seven seats and powered by Mazda’s 3.7-litre V6 engine which develops 204kW at6250rpm and 366Nm at 4250rpm.

The CX-9 is driven through Mazda’s Active Torque Split AWD system coupled to a six-speed Activematic transmission. All Australian-delivered units are built at Mazda’s factory in Hiroshima, Japan, but Mazda has made considerable refinements for the Australian market.

Mazda calls the CX-9 “Australia’s first affordable seven-seat SUV with style” and we can’t argue otherwise. According to the company the aim was simple, exciting, emotional and sporty.

Mazda hopes to attract buyers who are looking for more in a vehicle than purely functional benefits, and with that in mind there is no doubt the CX-9 will cut into people-mover sales.

The CX-9 follows the same design pattern seen across the entire Mazda range. With its elegantly sculpted, sporty five-point front grille and wide, bold bumper.

Both variants (Classic and Luxury) come standard with:

• climate control (three-zone),
• alloy wheels,
• cruise control,
• power windows and mirrors.
• A six-stack, in-dash CD player (MP3 compatible)
• a touch screen which includes a reversing camera and the CD player.

The Luxury variants get a sunroof, powered leather seats (with heating), 20-inch wheels (for the first time on a Mazda), chrome door handles and a premium Bose 277 watt amplified and 10 speakers (well worth the extra $7000).

With standard roll stability control (RSC), electronic stability control (DSC), traction control (TCS), ABS and six airbags – front, side and curtain on both models, the CX-9 is among the safest medium SUVs on the market.

Click to read 2008 Mazda CX-9 Specifications.

 

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

Targeted at the likes of Tribeca, Kluger, Territory and Captiva, the CX-9 is powered by Mazda’s all new 3.7 litre V6 (producing 204kW & 366Nm) promising it will be no slouch in the performance stakes. Fuel economy is expected to be 13.5 litres / 100km combined (US model results).

Delivering this power will be via an Activematic six-speed (auto) transmission which utilizes Mazda’s Active Torque Split AWD system to put power to the ground at up to a 50:50 drive ratio (as required). Stability Control comes standard.

An insightful interior featuring modular seating, tri-zone climate control, six airbags, reverse camera and touch screen audio controls are just the beginning of a package which is sure to prove popular.

Couple these with class leading cargo space, generous seating dimensions, unparalleled flexibility and superb styling, the CX-7 takes a fresh approach to the SUV market and is sure to raise a few eyebrows.

Outside the styling is typical Mazda. Smooth, modern, and fresh with no hard edges or horrid overhangs. The base model rides on smart 18″ alloys whilst the Luxury spec picks up a set of 20 inchers adding an assertive stance to what’s already an attractive and classy exterior.

The CX-9 goes on sale from December and will be available in two grades Classic and Luxury. At this stage pricing is unconfirmed, though expect to pay upward of $50,000.

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

Representing Mazda’s first venture into the Australian medium SUV market is the all-new seven seat crossover CX-9.

When the CX-9 goes on sale from December, it will be available in two grades – Classic and Luxury – and is expected to be priced from $50,000.

The previous 3.5-litre V6 engine has been bored to 3.7-litres producing 204kW of power at 6,250rpm and 366Nm at 4,250rpm through a six-speed Activematic gearbox.

An active torque all-wheel drive system automatically adjusts front/rear wheel torque distribution between 100:0 and 50:50.

“We are always looking for ways to improve our Stylish, Insightful and Spirited product. This is why we insisted Australia get the 3.7-litre engine over the 3.5-litre initially launched in the USA last year.” Managing Director for Mazda Australia Doug Dickson

The CX-9 sits on different architecture to the five-seat Mazda CX-7, and is a refreshing change from the boxy SUV’s which crowd the market.

Equipment is surprisingly abundant, most impressively providing an option for either 18 or 20-inch alloy wheels along with air-conditioning (three–zone climate control with independent rear control), cruise control, power windows and mirrors, an in-dash six-disc CD player (MP3 compatible) operated through a touch screen audio system that includes a reversing camera, six airbags and active safety features such as Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Roll Stability Control (RSC).

The 2875mm wheelbase is one of the longest in its class, providing easy access to its three-row seating. There’s ample room for adults and sufficient cargo space to accommodate modern Aussie families.

Cargo space is a practical 267 litres which jumps to 928 litres with the 3rd row seats folded down. Both second and third-row seats fold flat to allow additional storage all the way to the back of the front seats.

“Not only does CX-9 cater to large Australian families, but its stylish looks and high-performance 3.7-litre engine creates an appealing SUV package that is exciting to drive. Simply put, CX-9 delivers practicality with a touch of Zoom-Zoom.”

Australian specification and pricing will be announced at a later date.

2009 M{zd{ CX-9 SPECIFICATIONs*As tested by Wheels magazineCX‐9 ClassicCX‐9 LuxuryCX‐9 Grand TouringPowertrainEngine type3.7 litre V6 24 valve DOHC S‐VTEngine capacitycc3,726Bore and strokemm95.5 x 86.7Compression ratio10.3 : 1Maximum power204 kW @ 6,250 rpmMaximum torque367 Nm @ 4,250 rpmThrottle controlElectronic (drive‐by‐wire)Fuel systemElectronic port injectionFuel tank capacitylitres76Recommended fuelRegular unleaded (91RON)Fuel consumption*1combined12.2 litres per 100kmEmissions standardEuro stage IVFuel economyl/100km12.2CO2 emission ratingg/100km291Activematic (Auto) transmission6‐speedGear ratio1st4.1482nd2.373rd1.5554th1.1545th0.8596th0.685reverse3.393final drive3.464Performance0‐100km/h*secs8.5Top speedKm/h181

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

The current Mazda6 has been a sales phenomenon for the Japanese manufacturer and a lot is riding on the 08 model.

We brought you photos of the new Mazda6 from its global unveil at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and we’ll bring you even more photos from Sydney next week, but there is nothing like seeing it in the flesh.

The Mazda stand will also feature the all-new Mazda2.

Sitting alongside the new 6 and 2, will be Mazda’s all-new seven-seat CX-9 SUV.

The CX-9 is destined for showrooms by December this year.

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

Mazda Australia recently tested a prototype right-hand-drive engineering mule under Australian conditions and although the results have not been made public, Mazda was happy with the results (admittedly, they would have said that anyway!).

Australia will be the first market to receive the Right-Hand Drive CX-9 – Although Japan has the Minivan, the Japanese do not get the same car – yet. Infact the CX-9 had been designed initially (based on a stretched Mazda 6 platform) for Left Hand Drive markets and hence the conversion to RHD has taken some time.

Mazda plans to sell the CX-9 in two variants, prices from $55,000 and $60,000. Having to convert to RHD meant a few modifications, such as “flipping” the centre seat 60/40 split and middle row seatbelt mounting point had to be made.

The modifications have ensured the CX-9’s praised interior works just as well for the Australian market as it does in North America.

“The CX-9 is shaping up to be a strong entrant in the seven seat market, with our market research and the recent evaluation drive confirming that CX-9 has what it takes cabin space for seven adults, style and class leading dynamics – to make an impact in this family-friendly market segment. Mazda Australia’s marketing manager, Martin Benders said

The two variants are still under review and Mazda Australia is yet to release a full list of specifications. However, we do have some info, the engine will be sourced from Ford – a 3.5 Ford “Cyclone” V6, called the “MZI” in Mazda guise, the 186 kilowatt CX-9 engine will be available with:

• a choice of 18 or 20-inch alloy wheels,
• dual zone climate control air conditioning,
• cruise control,
• power windows and mirrors,
• six airbags
• Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
• Roll Stability Control (RSC).

Expects to see the new Crossover SUV in showrooms by January 2008.

©2010 Car Advice | News | Reviews - http://www.caradvice.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

Like the Mazda CX-7, which goes on sale from November, Mazda claims that the CX-9 is a clean break from the traditional boxy SUV. Engineered with Mazda’s “Soul of a Sportscar” signature, CX-9 deftly blends sporty driving spirit with seven-passenger SUV practicality.

“CX-9 will be an exciting addition to our Australian range as it gives us a third model in the important SUV segment and a dynamic entrant into the seven seat market,” says Doug Dickson, managing director of Mazda Australia.

“That Mazda has agreed to re-engineer the CX-9 for right-hand-drive production just for Australia further emphases the importance of this market to the company”.

“The CX-9 represents everything a Mazda SUV should be, offering ample power, striking appearance, fun-to-drive vitality, precision build quality and unexpected versatility. While other vehicles in this category focus only on what’s behind the driver’s seat for the family, Mazda has engineered a unique solution that is equally as exciting for the driver”.

You can find more information from the press release from Mazda below:

SPACE TO STRETCH

The Japan-built Mazda CX-9 rides on a long 2875mm wheelbase, providing easy access to its three-row seating. There’s ample room for adults in every position and sufficient cargo space to accommodate modern families. Under the sleek exterior is an interior that will impress demanding customers with its space, utility, versatility, and premium features.

To make life easy 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 125mm of fore-and-aft slide travel and a reclining backrest. In the 50-50-split third row, the seating position and leg room are impressive in numbers and real comfort. Entry to the third row is easy, with nearly 650mm inches of access space between the folded second-row seat and the C-pillar. Even with the third row occupied, the CX-9 provides more than 480 litres of cargo capacity, eclipsing the load capacity of the boots of many large sedans. 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 up again.

EXTERIOR STYLING A PRIORITY

Many mid-sized crossover SUVs strive for the utilitarian look. The Mazda CX-9, however, is designed to evoke a strong pride of ownership. Without sacrificing versatility or efficiency, the CX-9 strives for the sophisticated appearance of a vehicle costing two to three times as much. Its smooth and flowing silhouette, prominent wheels and tires, muscular fenders and steeply angled windshield and backlight give the CX-9 a dramatic-but-refined 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

At the heart of every Mazda lies a spirited engine. The CX-9 is powered by a new 3.5-litre V6 producing about 186kW and 325Nm of torque. Advanced features include dual-overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, variable valve timing, a high compression ratio and electronic throttle control.

A six-speed automatic transmission will be standard. The direct benefits to Mazda customers are optimum acceleration and passing performance, coupled with excellent highway fuel efficiency.

Drive is through Mazda’s advanced Active Torque-Split All-Wheel Drive system, which uses various sensors to signal control modules that 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 is also used in the Mazda6 MPS and CX-7.

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 optimise this structure, delivering high torsional and bending rigidity with minimal weight. Extra laser welds and adhesive weld bonding have been applied in critical areas for enhanced stiffness. Damping sheets applied to floor areas and acoustic foam filler added to body cavities assure a quiet, high quality cabin environment.

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 minimise cargo-compartment intrusion and permit a wider load space, the rear coil spring is positioned between the lower lateral member and the unibody. A damper is located as close as possible to each rear wheel to provide excellent motion control with minimal friction. Anti-roll bars at each end maximize agility and control during assertive driving.

In the United States, where the CX-9 goes on sale in the first half of next year, it rides on a choice of eighteen (P245/60R-18) or twenty-inch (P245/50R-20), V-rated, low-profile radial tyres. As a result, CX-9 looks and feels unusually nimble for its size.

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 minimise 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. These inflatable restraints deploy in the event of a lateral collision or a rollover to reduce the likelihood of injury and limb or head ejection. Inflation is maintained for approximately six seconds for maximum effectiveness, although the only way these systems work properly is when used in combination with seatbelts. Pretensioner devices automatically remove slack from the belt system immediately after a moderate or greater frontal collision and load limiters are incorporated to provide some give as the occupant moves forward. The CX-9’s front headrests incorporate new design features which are designed primarily to reduce neck injuries during rear impacts.

CX-9’s robust unibody uses the Mazda Advanced Impact-Energy Distribution and Absorption System to help protect its cabin from deformation harm in the event of a collision. A combination of large-section members, some made from high-tensile steel, envelope the passenger compartment to absorb impact energy while guarding against intrusion.

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