Mazda to launch CX-5, CX-9 and MX-5 RF at MIAS

Mazda Philippines is once again putting up a dominant display at the 2017 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), from March 30 to April 2, 2017, at the World Trade Center in Pasay City, by launching no less than three exciting new models: the latest CX-5 compact five-seat crossover, the all-new CX-9 seven-seat premium crossover, and the highly anticipated MX-5 RF retractable hardtop sports car. Here’s the news from Mazda:

“While the latest CX-5, the all-new CX-9, and the much-awaited MX-5 RF have distinct characteristics that allow each of them to cater to different sets of buyers, they all share the same core values that Mazda has upheld over the years,” says Steven Tan, President and CEO of Mazda Philippines. “Always, Mazda’s goal is to blend refined styling, human-centered technologies, and groundbreaking innovations to create unique lineup of products that engage and inspire owners not just when they are in the car, but also in every aspect of ownership. Jinba-ittai, or the concept of ‘horse and rider as one,’ thus becomes more than a tactile connection between man and machine—it turns into a strong emotional bond as well.”

The all-new Mazda CX-5: New dimensions of driving pleasure

After establishing itself as a core model accounting for approximately 25% of Mazda’s annual sales, the CX-5 aims to strengthen this status with a more sophisticated design and advanced systems that elevate the driving experience for both driver and passengers alike. The second edition of Mazda’s first full SKYACTIV model features an evolution of the Kodo – Soul of Motion design based on the idea of “Refined Toughness,” while the interior layout and details adhere to a more premium, yet still human-centered, approach in line with the jinba-ittai principle.

The most noteworthy feature of the new CX-5 is G-Vectoring Control (GVC), the first system under the new SKYACTIV-VEHICLE DYNAMICS technologies. This innovative system controls lateral and longitudinal forces acting on the car by actively adjusting engine torque in response to throttle, braking, and steering inputs. By effectively reducing the sideways motion of the cabin, it not only inspires more confidence in the driver, but also provides a more comfortable and less tiring journey for all the occupants.

In addition to the existing palette of colors, two new premium hues will highlight the second coming of Mazda’s top-selling crossover. Machine Grey is the latest color to accentuate the KODO: Soul of Motion design. With its strong contrast between light and shadow as well as its sleek, high-density finish, this all-new color gives the impression that the vehicle is sculpted from a solid steel ingot. The second new color, Crystal Soul Red, is a more advanced rendition of the signature Mazda shade, features 20 percent more saturation and 50 percent more depth than Soul Red. With a three layer-structure of clear, reflective and translucent coats, newly developed red pigments and a high concentration of high-brilliance aluminum and light-absorbing flakes, Crystal Soul Red takes Mazda’s philosophy of ‘color is an element of form’ to a whole new level.

The all-new Mazda CX-9: An indulgent experience of quality, comfort, and driving pleasure

Meanwhile, the second-generation CX-9 combines premium quality, superior ride comfort, and exhilarating driving dynamics to support and enhance every aspect of its owners’ multi-faceted lives. Its exterior wears a highly refined expression of the Kodo – Soul of Motion design to convey stability and a contained sense of energy ready to be unleashed. The interior, which features a high level of fit and finish usually seen on vehicles of a higher class, boasts details and materials that evoke an air of comfort, serenity, and ultimate sophistication.

At the heart of the all-new CX-9 is the groundbreaking SKYACTIV-G 2.5T in-line four-cylinder gasoline engine, which has been included in the Ward’s “10 Best Engines” for 2017 list. It delivers effortless acceleration through bountiful torque delivery, while returning top-notch fuel economy. The 2.5-liter engine is fitted with Mazda’s unique Dynamic Pressure Turbo, the world’s first turbocharger that can vary the degree of exhaust pulsation depending on engine speed. Peak output figures of 230ps at 5,000rpm and 420Nm from a low 2,000rpm are also achieved with the use of a 4-3-1 exhaust and an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system.

Matched with the highly innovative engine is the proven SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed automatic transmission, which works in tandem with the predictive i-ACTIV AWD system to direct torque to the rear wheels as necessary based on information from 27 different sensors. Also yielding improvements in driver control, chassis dynamics, and performance is the weight reduction of approximately 130kg compared with the previous model. All this leads to a greater sense of confidence for the driver, and a more stable and comfortable ride for all the occupants.

The Mazda MX-5 RF: Bringing the joy of open-top driving to a wider audience

Last but not least, the new MX-5 RF introduces the hardtop version of the fourth-generation MX-5. Its name denotes the ‘retractable’ roof and ‘fastback’ styling, which, together, create a unique and more premium open-top driving experience that will attract an even wider audience, while preserving the unchanging values MX-5 fans have admired since the release of the original model.

Composed of front, middle, and rear sections as well as the back window glass, the MX-5 RF’s retractable roof realizes a beautiful fastback silhouette that characterizes all iconic sports car designs. When the driver opts to put the top down, everything save for the rear roof section is stowed behind the seats. This creates a unique design feature not seen on any other hardtop model on the market, and at the same time promotes a pleasing sense of freedom combined with a reassuring feeling of being wrapped securely in the cabin.

The retractable roof is designed to allow for quick opening or closing at the flip of a switch—a mere 13 seconds for the entire sequence—even when the car is running at speeds of 10kph or less. The folded roof sections and the power-folding mechanism do not eat into the trunk space, which remains at 130L—the same as that of the soft-top model. Benefitting from its hardtop, the MX-5 RF improves ride quietness and heightens the feeling of high quality within the cabin.

Philippine-market MX-5 RF come with either black or Nappa leather options while Machine Gray paint further enhances the nameplate’s color lineup. The 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine paired with the SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed automatic transmission powers all MX-5 variants. Also standard for the MX-5 line are the i-STOP engine idling stop system and the i-ELOOP regenerative braking system.

A bigger and improved 2017 Mazda Collection

For MIAS 2017, the Mazda6 Sports Wagon leads the nameplate’s SKYACTIV-G range which all come standard with G-Vectoring Control system under the new SKYACTIV-VEHICLE DYNAMICS suite of technologies. GVC aims to provide a smoother drive, more responsive handling and superior ride comfort befitting of a full-size executive sedan. The Mazda6 SKYACTIV-D variant, meanwhile, delivers a cutting-edge diesel driving experience that matches smooth dynamic performance with superior fuel economy.

Further reinforcing the 2017 model lineup, the CX-3 Freestyle Crossover Vehicle in Activ All-Wheel Drive trim will also take the spotlight. Meanwhile, buyers in the compact car segment gain exciting new choices in three top-of-the-line models: the smarter, sleeker 2017 Mazda3 Speed, which also comes with GVC, the stylish Mazda2 Premium Series and the top-end Mazda2 RS. The Mazda2 SKYACTIV race car driven by Philippine Touring Car Championship class winner and GT Driver of the Year for touring cars, Edwin Rodriguez, will also be on display to highlight the 2016 championship-winning campaign of Mazda Philippines in the country’s national circuit racing series.

Finally, being showcased at the MIAS outdoor exhibit area is the latest BT-50 pickup. The 2017 model of the stylish truck boasts refreshed exterior design cues that go hand in hand with its proven off-road capabilities.

All brand new Mazda vehicles are available with YOJIN3, Mazda Philippines’ free three-year (or 60,000km, whichever comes first) periodic maintenance service package and emergency roadside assistance with concierge service.