Since its first launch in 1989, the Mazda MX-5 (Miata) has maintained the same recipe.
A small and lightweight body, and a minimalistic design.
The difference in horsepower between the first-generation and fourth-generation models is not too vast.
But did you know that Mazda once tried to produce the MX-5 with a V6 engine?
A 20-Year-Old Experiment
Christian Schultze, Director of Research and Operations at Mazda Motor Europe, confirmed that this occurred around 20 years ago.
This may have happened during the transition from the second-generation MX-5 (NB) to the third-generation MX-5 (NC).
Speaking to AutoRAI, he revealed that the V6 2.5-liter MX-5 project was driven voluntarily by a group of engineers.
Although it was not explicitly stated, it is likely that it used the K-Series engine that Mazda employed in production cars like the 626 and MX-6.
With significantly more power output compared to the NB engine (140 hp/161 Nm), the V6 MX-5 offered a more exhilarating driving experience.
Two Main Issues
Schultze admitted that there were two main issues that prevented the project from progressing beyond the prototype stage.
First, the V6 engine was too tall, making the overall aesthetics of the car less appealing.
Second, using the V6 engine would affect the overall weight balance, as the 2.5-liter engine is heavier than the existing engine.
What about the new-generation MX-5?
The fourth-generation MX-5 has been on the market for 11 years now, and it is time for Mazda to replace this roadster with a completely new model.
If the MX-5 were offered in a hybrid version (complete with an electric motor and battery), how would Mazda ensure the existing lightweight car recipe is maintained?
Bermaz Motor has announced the reintroduction of the Mazda3 with a 1.5-liter engine, featuring enhanced specifications and premium features.
This model is available in both sedan and hatchback body styles.
The naturally aspirated 1.5-liter SkyActiv-G engine can produce a power output of up to 118 hp at 6,000 rpm and a torque of 153 Nm at 4,000 rpm, driving the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.
With a fuel tank capacity of 51 liters, the Mazda3 can achieve a fuel consumption figure as low as 5.8 liters per 100 km.
Included in its features are G-Vectoring Control Plus Technology, automatic LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a keyless entry system.
The cabin offers a seven-inch TFT mid-display, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, dual-zone climate control, a wireless device charging slot, and rear air conditioning vents.
The Mazda3 also boasts leather upholstery on the steering wheel, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory function, a six-way manual adjustable passenger seat, paddle shifters, and a color head-up display.
Safety features include six airbags, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Launch Assist (HLA), Seat Belt Reminder, ISOFIX anchors, and Auto Hold function.
It is also equipped with i-Activsense ADAS features, which include:
Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS)
High Beam Control (HBC)
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS)
Lane Keeping Assist (LAS)
Driver Attention Alert (DAA)
Smart Brake Support (SBS) for front and rear
Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC)
Traffic Jam & Cruise Support (CTS)
There are several color options available, including Soul Red Crystal, Polymetal Gray, Jet Black, Platinum Quartz, Deep Crystal Blue, Machine Gray, and Snowflake White Pearl.
Imported fully from Japan (CBU), the Mazda3 is now open for orders, with a starting price of RM118,900.
Bermaz Motor, the official distributor of Mazda vehicles in Malaysia, has launched the facelifted version of the Mazda BT-50 for the local market.
Visually, the changes introduced to the BT-50 include:
A new grille structure featuring a larger Mazda logo
Headlights with dual L-shaped daytime running lights (DRL)
A front bumper now equipped with air curtain components
New LED taillights
A larger chrome Mazda logo
Newly designed wheels
The cabin features a seven-inch digital cluster display, a 9-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, USB charging ports, dual-zone climate control, and air conditioning vents for the second row.
Other equipment includes leather upholstery, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a four-way manual passenger seat, and a manual parking brake lever.
This pickup truck retains a 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine that produces 188 hp at 3,600 rpm and 450 Nm of torque between 1,600 and 2,600 rpm.
The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel drive (4WD) system.
Driving features are enhanced with options such as Rough Terrain mode, Hill Descent Control (HDC), drive mode settings (2WD/4WD High/4WD Low), and a rear differential lock.
With a fuel tank capacity of 76 liters, the BT-50 offers a fuel consumption rate as low as 7.76 liters per 100 km.
Safety features include six airbags, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Seat Belt Reminder, and i-Activsense ADAS functions, including:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
High Beam Assist (HBA)
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
Driver Attention Alert (DAA)
Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS)
Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Five color options are available: Concrete Gray Mica, Vermilion Latosol Mica, True Black Mica, Geode White Pearl, and Sailing Blue Mica.
This fully imported unit (CBU) from Thailand is priced starting at RM138,000.
Tsutomu Matano, affectionately known as Tom Matano, passed away at the age of 76 on September 20th.
This news was shared by Mazda in an official statement released recently.
Matano is best known among automotive enthusiasts as the “Father of the Miata,” as he was responsible for designing the first-generation Mazda Miata MX-5 (NA).
After working with General Motors and BMW, Matano joined Mazda in 1983.
Thanks to his work, the Mazda MX-5 became the best-selling two-seater model worldwide.
In addition to the MX-5, MX-3, and MX-6, Matano also contributed to the design of another iconic Mazda model, the third-generation RX-7 FD, which is considered one of the most beautiful Japanese cars of all time.
After concluding his service at Mazda in 2002, Matano became the Executive Director at the Academy of Art University in the School of Industrial Design in San Francisco.
Thank you, Tom Matano-san, for creating the Miata as the answer to everything. Your contributions will always be remembered!
Bermaz Motor has launched another model for the local market—the 2025 Mazda CX-80 PHEV.
Like the CX-60, the Mazda CX-80 shares the Large Group Product platform but features a longer dimension and a three-row seating configuration.
Here are some key details about the 2025 Mazda CX-80:
Engine
The Mazda CX-80 is powered by a Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine complemented by a plug-in hybrid system.
This engine produces 189 hp and 261 Nm of torque, paired with an electric motor generating 172 hp and 270 Nm of torque, resulting in a total power output of 323 hp at 6,000 rpm and torque of 500 Nm at 4,000 rpm.
The 17.8 kWh lithium-ion battery allows for an all-electric range of up to 65 km, along with supporting AC charging at 7.2 kW (full charging time: 2 hours and 30 minutes).
With a fuel tank capacity of 70 liters, the CX-80 offers a fuel consumption rate as low as 1.6L/100 km.
There are four driving modes: Normal, Sport, Off-road, and EV.
Dimensions
The CX-80 measures 4,995 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, and 1,705 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,120 mm.
It has a ground clearance of 175 mm and a turning radius of 5.80 meters.
Suspension
Similar to the CX-60, the CX-80 features a double wishbone setup at the front and a multi-link system at the rear, along with Kinematic Posture Control (KPC).
Exterior
Exterior features of the CX-80 include LED headlights with daytime running lights, 20-inch rims, windshield wipers with a rain sensor, powered side mirrors, and a power-operated hands-free tailgate.
Interior
The CX-80 cabin is equipped with features such as a 12.3-inch digital cluster screen, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, a Bose audio system with 12 speakers, as well as leather and gunmetal trim on the dashboard.
As mentioned, the CX-80 offers three rows of Nappa leather seating that can accommodate six passengers at once.
The driver and front passenger seats provide up to 10-way adjustment, including memory functions, ventilation, and heating.
Additional features include dual-zone automatic climate control, 12V power slots, USB ports, a frameless rearview mirror, and a wireless charging pad.
Safety
The safety equipment of the CX-80 matches what is offered in the CX-60, including airbags, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Stability Control, Traction Control, a 360-degree camera, and Hill Launch Assist (HLA).
The CX-80 also comes with several advanced safety technologies including:
Adaptive LED Headlights (ALH)
Blind Spot Monitoring System (BSM)
Front and Rear Traffic Cross Alert (FCTA & RCTA)
Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS)
Lane Keeping Assist (LAS)
Driver Attention Alert (DAA)
Traffic Jam and Cruising Support (CTS)
Smart Brake Support (SBS)
Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC)
Price
Fully imported from Japan (CBU), the 2025 Mazda CX-80 is priced starting at RM331,610.
Bermaz Motor has officially launched the latest SUV model, the 2025 CX-60 for the local market.
This is Mazda’s first product built on the Large Product Group platform, offering a more luxurious and elegant image.
Below are the key details of the Mazda CX-60 for the Malaysian market:
Engine
The Mazda CX-60 is powered by a Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine, delivering 189 hp at 6,000 rpm and torque of 261 Nm at 3,000 rpm.
Power is transmitted to the wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.
With a fuel tank capacity of 58 liters, the CX-60 achieves a fuel consumption rate of 7.3 liters per 100 km.
Dimensions
The CX-60 measures 4,740 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, and 1,680 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,870 mm.
The ground clearance is 175 mm, while the turning radius is approximately 5.40 meters.
Suspension System
The CX-60 features a double wishbone setup in the front, complemented by a multi-link system at the rear.
It also comes equipped with Kinematic Posture Control (KPC) that optimizes suspension performance for smoother and more stable body movement, especially at high speeds.
Exterior
Standard equipment on the CX-60 includes LED lighting systems, LED daytime running lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensing wipers, a hands-free powered tailgate, and power-adjustable side mirrors.
Interior
Inside the cabin, the CX-60 offers features such as a 12.3-inch digital cluster display, a 12.3-inch central screen, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Bose audio system with 12 speakers, and leather accents on the dashboard.
The driver’s seat provides up to 10 adjustments, complete with memory function, while the front passenger seat offers up to eight adjustment levels.
Other features include dual-zone climate control, 12V power outlets and USB ports, a frameless rearview mirror, and wireless charging capability.
Safety
Safety features in the CX-60 include airbags, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, stability control, traction control, a 360-degree camera, and Hill Launch Assist (HLA).
The CX-60 also comes with several advanced safety technologies, including:
Adaptive LED Headlights (ALH)
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
Front and Rear Traffic Cross-Detection Alerts (FCTA & RCTA)
Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS)
Lane Keeping Assistance (LAS)
Driver Attention Alert (DAA)
Traffic Jam and Cruise Support (CTS)
Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC)
Pricing
The 2025 Mazda CX-60 is a completely built unit (CBU) imported from Japan and is priced starting from RM200,510 on-the-road excluding insurance.
After nine years of the second generation of the Mazda CX-5 dominating the roads, Mazda is now ready to introduce the third generation of this compact SUV to the world.
Not many details have been revealed, but it is certain that the new generation CX-5 offers a larger dimensional package, a refreshed Kodo design, and an entirely new cabin layout.
Here are several things you need to know about the 2026 Mazda CX-5:
Dimensions
The CX-5 features dimensions of 4,690 mm (+140 mm) in length, 1,860 mm (+20 mm) in width, and 1,695 mm (+10 mm) in height.
The wheelbase measures approximately 2,775 mm (+75 mm).
These size changes are expected to enhance the cabin space, making it appear more spacious and larger, along with a bigger cargo area (+61 liters).
Exterior Design
Undoubtedly, the Kodo design featured in previous CX-5 models is among Mazda’s most beautiful works.
For the third generation, this approach has been reworked for a more stylish appearance, especially with the Signature Wing grille, sharper headlights, and a sportier bumper.
The rear now resembles its larger siblings, the CX-70/CX-80, but the Mazda logo has been removed and replaced with just the word “MAZDA.”
Minimalist Cabin
Mazda is well-known for its minimalist cabin design approach in its latest models, and the 2026 CX-5 is no exception.
The dashboard layout is now more streamlined, with the center housing a 15.6-inch screen featuring an integrated Google system.
Unfortunately, Mazda has taken the effort to minimize the presence of functional buttons to the extent that all controls are now integrated into the large screen.
Additionally, there is a 10.25-inch digital cluster screen behind the steering wheel, which no longer features the M logo.
For lower variants, Mazda offers a 12.9-inch central screen.
Engine Options
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 will be available with several engine options.
The existing 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine (187 hp/251 Nm) will continue to be offered, while a mild hybrid e-Skyactiv G 2.5-liter version (140 hp/238 Nm) will be available in Europe.
Mazda also confirmed that the hybrid variant will be equipped with the entirely new Skyactiv-Z engine, promising significantly higher performance and efficiency.
This new generation of the CX-5 is expected to make its debut in the European market by the end of this year, followed by other markets by the end of 2026.
Further details regarding the Mazda EZ-60 electric SUV have been revealed through the website of the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.
According to preliminary reports, the Mazda EZ-60 is equipped with a single electric motor producing 255 hp, capable of reaching a top speed of 185 km/h.
In terms of dimensions, the SUV measures 4,850 mm in length, 1,935 mm in width, 1,620 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,902 mm, placing it in the mid-size SUV category.
The EZ-60 features a futuristic and minimalist cabin layout, with a floating 26.45-inch 5K display, a two-spoke steering wheel, and side display screens.
Additionally, the front seats come equipped with a zero-gravity function, premium upholstery, ventilation, heating, massage features, built-in speakers in the headrest, and wireless charging slots.
Mazda has also disclosed that this SUV weighs approximately 2,180 kg and has a weight distribution ratio of 47:53, compared to 50:50 for the extended-range version (EREV) of the EZ-60.
For your information, the Mazda EZ-60 EREV combines a 255 hp electric motor with a 1.5-liter engine that serves only as a power generator, along with a 31.73 kWh LFP battery pack.
This configuration allows the EZ-60 EREV to travel up to 160 km on a zero-emission drive.
Interestingly, since its debut last month, Mazda has received interest for 20,000 pre-orders for the EZ-60.
While the sale price has not been disclosed, local automotive websites suggest that the price for the EZ-60 starts from RMB 150,000 to RMB 300,000 (approximately RM 88,000 to RM 175,000).
At 2025 Auto Shanghai recently, Mazda took the opportunity to launch the EZ-6 sedan in a sportier variant.
Developed through a collaboration between Mazda teams in Japan, China, and Europe, the Mazda EZ-6 Sports Edition is targeted at a younger demographic of buyers.
Distinguishing it from the standard EZ-6 model are the glossy black 19-inch alloy wheels and red brake calipers.
Stepping inside the cabin, the EZ-6 features black Alcantara upholstery, contrasting red stitching, and dark trim elements on the center console and air conditioning vents.
There are no changes to the equipment, meaning the cabin of the EZ-6 Sports Edition still retains a 14.6-inch infotainment screen, a 50-inch head-up display, and a Sony audio system with 14 speakers.
For your information, the Mazda EZ-6 is a D-segment sedan developed by Mazda in collaboration with Changan Automobile using the Deepal L07 platform.
In China, the Mazda EZ-6 is available in a BEV version with a 255 hp electric motor and a range between 480 km to 600 km, depending on battery capacity.
There is also a range-extended variant (EREV) that combines a 1.5-liter engine with a 215 hp rear axle electric motor, offering a range of up to 1,301 km with a fuel consumption rate of 3.6 liters/100 km.
Following the launch of the electric sedan EZ-6, the collaboration between Mazda and automotive manufacturer Changan continues with the introduction of another new crossover model – the Mazda EZ-60.
Like the previously showcased EZ-6 sedan, the Mazda EZ-60 is fundamentally built on the modular platform EPA1 developed by Changan. This means it shares very similar specifications with the Deepal S07 crossover.
The exterior design of the Mazda EZ-60 aligns with Mazda’s modern Kodo design philosophy.
Notable features include a grid structure and illuminated front logo, separated headlight design, hidden door handles, and the presence of side cameras.
A striking feature is the air vent located on the C-pillar, designed to reduce drag coefficient, thereby aiding in achieving a longer driving range.
The minimalist approach is also reflected at the rear, where the Mazda EZ-60 features elongated LED tail lights that extend towards the center, along with the word “MAZDA” replacing the traditional logo.
Based on its dimensions, it is highly likely that the Mazda EZ-60 shares nearly identical measurements with the Deepal S07 SUV, as previously presented by Bermaz earlier this year.
In terms of dimensions, the Deepal S07 measures 4,750 mm in length, 1,930 mm in width, 1,625 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,900 mm.
In the Chinese market, the Deepal S07 is available with a single electric motor option producing either 218 hp or 258 hp.
There are two battery pack options available: a 66.8 kWh pack offering a range of 520 km, or a 79.97 kWh pack providing a range of up to 620 km (CLTC data).
More information about this electric SUV will be revealed ahead of the Shanghai Auto Show 2025, which is set to take place later this month.
The Bermaz Auto Showcase taking place this weekend, will be further enlivened by the exhibition of the Mazda3 Concept prototype model.
Produced by the MazdaSports division, this prototype model recalls the Mazda3 MS Edition launched in 2016.
Several enhancements have been made, such as a complete aerodynamic body kit with a rear spoiler, Enkei Tuning SC22 rims in Matte Gunmetal, Endless Super Street S-Sports brake pads, and MS-branded exhaust tips.
The handling aspect has also been improved with the installation of a front strut bar.
Finally, the exterior of this hatchback is adorned with exclusive body stickers complete with red decorative stripes.
The cabin of the Mazda3 Concept is enhanced with suede-wrapped seating featuring red stripe accents, a suede-wrapped steering wheel complemented with red stitching.
This sporty Mazda3 Concept will be displayed at the Bermaz Auto Showcase at the following locations:
LG Oval Concourse, 1 Utama Shopping Centre (April 10-13)
G Floor Main Atrium, Queensbay Mall, Penang (April 16-20)
Bermaz Motor, as the exclusive distributor of Mazda vehicles, has announced the availability of the Mazda MX-5 35th Anniversary Edition special model.
This special edition Mazda MX-5 is introduced as a tribute to the four generations of this sports car, renowned for its exhilarating driving characteristics and timeless design.
For the local market, this limited anniversary MX-5 is only offered with a 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine (181 hp/205 Nm) paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Each unit features a specially created Artisan Red Premium color using unique Takuminuri technology, Bright Metallic 17-inch alloy wheels, and a ’35th Anniversary’ badge accompanied by a serial number.
The cabin comes equipped with Tan leather upholstery, the 35th Anniversary Edition logo on the headrests and floor mats, as well as Artisan Red accents on the air conditioning vents and door panels.
In addition to the anniversary edition, all MX-5 variants have received cosmetic changes on the exterior.
For instance, this includes headlights with eye-like LED DRL graphics, taillights featuring an ‘afterburner’ effect, and a rear bumper equipped with reflectors and fog lights.
The cabin showcases a redesigned meter cluster, a frameless rearview mirror, an 8.8-inch infotainment screen, Type-C USB charging ports, and an HD rearview camera.
In terms of driving dynamics, Mazda has improved the EPAS steering system for smoother operation and more linear, responsive characteristics.
Meanwhile, the manual 2.0L variant now incorporates DSC-TRACK (Driving Stability Control Track Mode) and an Asymmetric Limited Slip Differential (Asymmetric LSD) for optimal control in various conditions, including spirited driving sessions.
Except for the anniversary edition, all MX-5 variants can be optioned in Deep Crystal Blue, Soul Red Crystal, Machine Gray, Snowflake White Pearl, Jet Black, and the new Aero Gray color.
The selling prices are as follows:
Mazda MX-5 2.0L MT – RM293,000
Mazda MX-5 2.0L AT – RM295,000
Mazda MX-5 35th Anniversary Edition – RM315,000
The Mazda MX-5 35th Anniversary Edition will be showcased at the Oval Concourse, 1 Utama Shopping Centre from April 10 to 13, from 10 AM to 10 PM.
Visitors can also participate in the Mazda MX-5 Photo Contest for a chance to win exclusive merchandise. This contest can only be entered at the Bermaz Auto Showcase in 1 Utama Shopping Centre and Sunway Carnival Mall in the northern region.
With an exciting rotary sports car and a new generation Skyactiv engine in the pipeline, the future for Mazda looks incredibly exciting. However, it’s a bit of a bummer that several existing models are set to face the axe as early as the end of this year.
Mazda 2
First off, we have the Mazda 2, which has been around since 2014. The hatchback did receive a couple of updates in 2019 and again in 2023, but the changes felt like a drop in the ocean and simply weren’t enough to keep it relevant in the market.
Sales of the hatchback were already wrapped up in the UK last February, but those in Europe can still get the hybrid version, which is essentially a rebadged Toyota Yaris. As of now, there’s been no word on what might take its place.
Mazda CX-3
Much like the Mazda 2, the CX-3 has also been around for over a decade. The compact crossover is still available in Japan and some Asian markets, including Malaysia, but it’s been shown the door in the US and Europe.
That said, there’s still hope for the CX-3, as reports suggest that Mazda is currently working on a new generation model that will offer a hybrid engine option.
Mazda 6
The third-generation Mazda 6 is also approaching its final chapter. After being pulled from the North American market in 2021, the UK in 2023, and Japan in 2024, it’s just recently been discontinued in Australia for failing to meet safety standards.
But fear not, as the sedan already has a successor lined up, the Mazda EZ-6. Developed in collaboration with Changan using the Deepal SL03 as its basis, the EZ-6 will be available as a fully electric vehicle and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).
Mazda MX-30
Last but not least, Mazda’s first electric vehicle, the MX-30, is also set to be axed after just five years on the market. It’s fair to say that this is not a complete shocker, considering it can only manage a mere 199 km on a full charge.
On the bright side, Mazda is still offering a range extender version known as the e-SkyActiv R-EV. Although its electric range is limited to just 85 km, this model can travel a total of 600 km thanks to its rotary engine and 50-litre fuel tank.
The Mazda MX-5, also known as the Roadster or Miata, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic cars in the automotive world, having sold over 1.2 million units since its launch back in 1989.
To celebrate its 35th anniversary, Mazda will be offering a limited edition model known as the MX-5 35th Anniversary Edition.
According to Mazda, only 1,000 units will be produced, and all will be sold in Japan starting February 2025. Customers can choose between a soft top or a hard top RF version.
So what makes the commemorative model more special than the standard version?
In terms of exterior, the MX-5 35th Anniversary Edition is presented in Artisan Red Premium Metallic, which is applied using ‘Takuminuri’ technology to further accentuate the lines and curves of the MX-5’s body.
Additionally, it comes with a beige roof, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a ’35th Anniversary’ badge complete with the production serial number located adjacent to the rear tyres.
Inside, it boasts tan Nappa leather upholstery matched with beige carpeting, as well as embossed ’35th Anniversary’ logos on the headrests.
There are no mechanical changes, sadly. The soft top version still features a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 136 PS and 152 Nm, paired with a six-speed manual transmission that drives the rear wheels.
Meanwhile, the RF version is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 184 PS and 205 Nm, and is available with either manual or automatic transmission.
The starting sale prices are 3,753,200 yen (£24,250) for the soft top, 4,354,900 yen (£28,358) for the manual RF, and 4,382,400 yen (£28,646) for the automatic RF.
Only a few weeks remain before the Tokyo Auto Salon opens its doors in Japan next month.
Mazda will showcase several special models at the event, including a limited edition model produced by its high-performance division, Mazda Spirit Racing.
For those unfamiliar, Mazda Spirit Racing has been utilized by the manufacturer since 2021 in Japan’s Super Taikyu Series, designed to take over the role previously held by Mazdaspeed.
Mazda Spirit Racing RS Concept
Based on a single image (main picture) provided, the Mazda MX-5 tuned by Mazda Spirit Racing features a new front splitter, an “R” logo on the front grille, black six-spoke wheels, red brake calipers, and a rear lip spoiler.
Additionally, there are red accents on the center of the bumper and on the side mirror housings, as well as a set of racing-inspired decals.
Currently, Mazda has not revealed any details regarding mechanical upgrades for this special model.
In addition to the Mazda MX-5, Mazda will also showcase two racing concept models: the Mazda3 Bio Concept and the MX-5 Roadster CNF Concept, along with the CX-5 SUV, which has been developed in collaboration with Toyo Tires.
Did you know that this silver Mazda RX-7 was owned and driven for 25 years by an elderly woman, Naoko Nishimoto?
In conjunction with her 80th birthday celebration on December 18, Naoko decided to voluntarily surrender her driver’s license and return her beloved RX-7 to Mazda Japan.
Her intention to sell the RX-7 captured public attention when it was featured on YouTube on September 2024, creating a significant phenomenon.
After her story aired, Naoko received over 400 emails, including one from Mazda’s Public Relations department.
Coincidentally, an engineer at Mazda watched the program and immediately contacted the PR department, stating, “Mazda should take over this (RX-7)!”
When Naoko read the email from Mazda, she remarked, “It was an email filled with enthusiasm and sincerity, and it seemed to shine for me.”
It is understood that the sender of the email also had a strong attachment to the Mazda RX-7.
Naoko’s story of her love for driving the manual RX-7 began when she was 55, at which point her Corona Coupe, owned for nearly a decade, started to have issues.
Coincidentally, she watched the animated series Initial D with her son and fell in love at first sight with the design of the Mazda RX-7 (FD3S).
She then promptly went to the nearest Mazda dealership to place an order, where at that time (1999), the price was around 3.2 million yen (approximately RM91,855).
Initially, Naoko wanted to choose a blue color as shown in the product brochure, but the Mazda salesperson suggested she opt for Highlight Silver Metallic.
“Looking back, I feel relieved that I chose that color,” she stated.
Thanks to the care and maintenance provided by Kyushu Mazda Akasako, Naoko’s RX-7 never experienced major problems during her 25 years of ownership.
The mileage of 77,592 km is evidence of her passion for the unique driving experience of the RX-7, which never made her feel fatigued, even on long journeys.
According to Naoko, she particularly loves the design of this sports car’s rear, especially the rear wing and the number seven on the license plate.
During the purchase process, the staff at Kyushu Mazda kindly handled all registration procedures, successfully obtaining the number 7 from the Land Transportation Bureau for the RX-7.
As a result, this became one of Naoko’s favorite features of the car.
Naoko also never found it difficult to drive the manual RX-7 in her hilly neighborhood in Nagasaki.
“When I first bought it, I felt nervous; however, now I have gotten used to it, and it is no longer a problem,” she expressed.
This Mazda RX-7 Type RB S package is powered by a 13B-REW engine with sequential twin turbocharging, capable of generating up to 265 PS and 294 Nm of torque.
Her story also captured the attention of Mazda President and CEO Moro Masahiro, who sent an appreciation letter read by Kosuke Doi, General Manager of Mazda’s Domestic Sales Division.
In the letter, Moro mentioned, “The RX-7 is the first model I was responsible for marketing after joining Mazda, so it holds special memories for me.”
“We will cherish this car, along with the stories of your (Naoko) joyful and vibrant life experiences.”
After the handover event, Naoko then proceeded to the Urakami police station in Nagasaki Prefecture to voluntarily return her driver’s license.
Mazda Japan promised to take excellent care of the RX-7 and plans to transfer the model to the R&D center in Yokohama for use as a public relations vehicle or to be exhibited at official events.
It has been over a year since Mazda first showcased the concept model, Iconic SP, at the Japan Mobility Show 2023.
In exciting news for rotary sports car enthusiasts, Mazda has finally confirmed the company’s commitment to making the Iconic SP a reality in the future.
In an interview with Auto News, Mazda CEO Masahiro Moro provided the much-anticipated update regarding the production version of the Iconic SP.
He stated, “We are working to make it a reality, and we are progressing step by step towards that goal.”
The enthusiasm for realizing the concept was evident from the beginning when the Iconic SP model created a buzz in the digital world.
During last year’s Japan Mobility Show, the CEO described the model as a commitment to Mazda’s future.
This was further reinforced by a statement from Mazda’s chief designer, Masashi Nakayama, who emphasized, “This concept is not just an empty show car. It has been designed with the genuine intention of becoming a production model in the future.”
Mazda will also develop a new hybrid powertrain unit featuring two rotors to meet the demands of users in the United States who crave power.
Unlike the conventional rotary engine operations we know, this hybrid two-rotor engine will act as a power generator for the electric motors that drive the wheels, rather than directly powering the wheels.
With a combined power output of around 365 hp, it is significantly more powerful than the rotary engines found in the RX-7 and RX-8 models.
This configuration of the hybrid rotary engine is seen as a solution to the weight issues present in today’s electric vehicles, allowing Mazda to use a smaller battery pack to keep the weight to a minimum—an essential aspect for any sports car.
For your information, Mazda established a special team to develop the rotary engine in February.
Comprising 36 engineers, the RE Development Group will be responsible for creating cars that excite Mazda customers, especially fans of rotary-powered sports cars.
In addition to the Mazda CX-60, another SUV model showcased at 2024 KLIMS is the Mazda CX-80.
Like the Mazda CX-60, the Mazda CX-80 is a mid-size SUV built on the Large Group Product platform, but features a three-row seating configuration.
The exterior design of the CX-80 also incorporates design elements similar to those of the CX-60.
The dimensions of the CX-80 are larger than those of the CX-60, measuring 4,995 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, and 1,710 mm in height, with a wheelbase of approximately 3,120 mm.
The cabin of the CX-80 also includes features and amenities consistent with the CX-60, such as a digital cluster display, a 12.3-inch central screen, a head-up display, and a Bose audio system.
The unit displayed at KLIMS is equipped with a 2.5-liter e-Skyactiv G engine generating 328 PS and 500 Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
At 2024 KLIMS, Bermaz Motor also took the opportunity to showcase two models from the Mazda Large Product group, namely the Mazda CX-60 and Mazda CX-80.
The Mazda CX-60 is a mid-size SUV that has been available in the global market since 2022.
It features dimensions of 4,745 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, 1,685 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,870 mm, making it larger than the CX-50.
The exterior of the CX-60 embodies the design philosophy of ‘Kodo – Soul of Motion’ with a sharp front grille, smaller headlight units, and L-shaped daytime running lights that connect to the grille.
The cabin showcases a digital cluster display, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, a head-up display, dedicated climate control buttons, and a cargo space of 570 liters.
The unit displayed at KLIMS is equipped with a 3.3-liter inline-six e-Skyactiv G engine with a hybrid system, producing 280 hp and 450 Nm of torque.
At the 2024 Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show 2024 (2024 KLIMS), Bermaz Motor has launched the MS Limited Edition package, specifically designed for Mazda CX-5 SUV owners.
The MS Limited Edition package features glossy black finishes on the signature front wing grille, bumper, side mirrors, wheel arches, front and rear rocker panels, as well as 19-inch rims.
Additionally, Mazda offers a rear spoiler matched to the vehicle’s body color, complemented by MS exhaust tips for a sportier appearance.
The package also includes upgrades to handling, as the Mazda CX-5 now comes equipped with a black front strut bar that enhances the vehicle’s structural stability.
Inside the cabin, drivers will be welcomed by seats adorned with the MS logo, red stitching accents, sporty pedals, MS-branded floor mats, and suede finishes on the steering wheel, seats, and door panels.
The MS Limited Edition package for the Mazda CX-5 is priced at RM12,000 and includes a one-year warranty for genuine Mazda accessories.
Malaysia’s Leading Automotive News | ENGEAR ENGLISH
