Mazda Kazamai Concept to Premiere at Moscow International Automobile Salon 2008

Mazda will unveil a sporty, compact crossover concept vehicle, Mazda Kazamai, at the Moscow International Automobile Salon (MIAS) on August 26. Kazamai, which means “swirling crosswinds” in Japanese, expresses the powerful yet nimble image of a stylish and compact crossover. The concept is based on Mazda’s long-term vision for technology development, Sustainable Zoom-Zoom, which aims to provide a unique balance between sporty driving fun and superior environmental and safety performance. Kazamai will be joined at MIAS by the Russian debut of Mazda’s CX-9 SUV, which was crowned 2008 North American Truck of the Year in February.

The Kazamai concept further evolves Mazda’s ‘Nagare’ design language by fusing Nagare’s ‘flow’ design cues with aerodynamic proportions. The design features panel lines inspired by crosswinds in nature which evoke visual lightness. Its bold five-point grille, accentuated front wheel arches and sleek roof line, combined with large 22-inch wheels, lend it high emotional appeal.

Sporty to look at, Kazamai is meant to be spirited and fun to drive, with compact dimensions. Kazamai’s four-wheel drive powertrain will consist of a next-generation direct injection engine and a newly developed transmission. It is also aerodynamic, with an evolved lightweight body structure and enhanced the vehicle safety attributes. Were it to be built, Mazda’s latest show car would deliver exciting driving dynamics, frugal fuel consumption and greatly reduced CO2 emissions.

The Mazda Kazamai promises to be another ground-breaking show car from Mazda Design, winner of this year’s Grand Prix du Design in Paris. Created especially for the Moscow International Automobile Salon, it gives a good indication of where Mazda is going with a possible future compact crossover. And in Russia’s growing automotive market, compact SUVs are the second-largest segment, representing about 13 percent of all new car sales.

Source: Tuning News

Detroit 2008: 2009 Mazda RX8

We have already been treated to views of the 09 RX8 already at the Tokyo Auto Salon as the RX8 RS. Mazda revealed the official 2009 RX8 in Detroit at NAIAS today.

Not much has changed as the RX8 is due for replacement soon. So a minor face lift and some mechanical upgrades were made for 09. Horsepower was upgraded to 232hp with the two-rotor Renesis rotary motor backed by a 6 speed manual transmission. If you opt for the automatic trans with paddle shifters, horsepower drops 20 hp to 212. The 1.3 liter Renesis motor is one of the smoothest rotary motors ever produced. Providing smooth acceleration through 9,000 rpm. New engine bracing and suspension geometry round out the major mechanical changes for 09.

The revised front and rear bumpers and different exhaust tips are the noticeable changes outside. In my opinion, it looks much better than the previous RX8. Inside the interior received some minor upgrades aswell.

The big news for 2009 is the R3 package. It harks back to the R1 & R2 package offered on the RX7 in the 1990s. This package is for the serious performance minded enthusiasts. The R3 RX8 will include "a sport-tuned suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers and front suspension crossmembers filled with urethane foam. Filling the crossmembers makes for a smoother ride, minimized NVH and greater suspension control."

"On the visual side of the package, a rear spoiler, side sills, fog lights and sporty front bumper are added to give an aggressive appearance, along with 19-inch forged aluminum-alloy wheels with high performance tires. Inside, the R3 adds a 300-watt Bose® audio system with Centerpoint® surround sound and AudioPilot® noise compensation technology, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, front Recaro sport seats with leather side bolsters, leather-wrapped parking brake handle and Mazda advanced keyless entry and start system."

Look for the RX8 to hit showrooms later this year.

Source: Mazda