
Extra laser welds and adhesive weld bonding have been applied in critical areas for enhanced stiffness. Computer-aided-engineering analysis was used to optimize this structure, delivering high torsional and bending rigidity with minimal weight. The stiff unibody of the Mazda CX-9 provides a sound foundation for a poised ride and agile handling. This all-wheel drive system has been especially well received in MAZDASPEED6 and CX-7 applications. 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. On all-wheel-drive models, various sensors signal control modules to automatically apportion torque to those wheels most able to provide solid traction. The direct benefits to Mazda customers are optimum acceleration and passing performance, coupled with excellent highway fuel efficiency.ĭrive is either through the front wheels or via Mazda's advanced Active Torque-Split All-Wheel Drive system. While six-speed automatic transmissions have until now been exclusive to premium-priced SUVs, the CX-9 provides that desirable feature as standard equipment. Advanced features include dual-overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, variable valve timing, a high compression ratio and electronic throttle control. The CX-9 is powered by a new 3.5-liter V-6 with a preliminary rating of 250-horsepower. Fuel economy has also become a point of emphasis for Mazda, notably without resorting to the widespread use of turbocharging like most rivals.At the heart of every Mazda lies a spirited engine. The latest MX-5 Miata, meanwhile, maintains its elemental sports-car purity and continues to embody the company's spirited philosophy. The compact Mazda 3 helped Mazda carve out a niche as a mainstream brand with a sophisticated vibe, while SUVs like the CX-5, CX-9, and more recently the CX-30 and CX-50 have broadened the lineup and won over a whole new generation of fans. The new millennium has seen Mazda regain its stride thanks to major investments in fresh models and platforms. However, save for the Miata, the company's vehicles experienced declining sales in the U.S., and the company's fortunes suffered as a result. Vehicles like the RX-7 and MX-5 Miata scored kudos from automotive journalists, and landed on many top 10 lists. Mazda began the 1990s with a bang by winning Le Mans with the 787B it was the first time a Japanese automaker had won the prestigious race, and marked the only win for a rotary engine. Lauded for its ultra-responsive handling and affordability, the drop top has been a consistent favorite, and now holds the distinction of being the world's best-selling roadster. The 1990 model year saw the launch of a car that would prove a huge hit for Mazda: the MX-5 Miata. It also witnessed an upswing in sales sparked by successful new products like the 323 (which was first called the GLC in the American market) and 626. The company officially took on the Mazda name (though all its vehicles since its launch in the '20s have carried that brand). The 1980s was a decade of rebirth for Mazda.

In 1979, Ford Motor Company purchased a 25 percent stake in Mazda after the Japanese company encountered a number of financial difficulties. The decade also saw the introduction of the RX-3, RX-4 and now iconic rotary-powered RX-7 sports car. Powered by the noted 12A rotary, the RX-2 introduced America to Mazda's effort to build cars that were affordable and fun to drive. In the early part of the decade, the automaker rolled out the RX-2.

The '60s also saw the introduction of the company's first pickup, the B-Series 1500, as well as its first rotary-engine vehicle, the 110S Cosmo Sport. In 1961, the company entered into a technical partnership with NSU and Wankel to develop and produce rotary engines, a union that led to Mazda's distinguishing itself as the only manufacturer to offer three engine configurations: conventional gasoline piston, diesel and rotary. Other landmark developments were soon to follow.
MAZDA CROSSOVER 2006 FULL
In the wake of World War II and the rebuilding that followed, the company refocused its efforts on car development and manufacturing.īy 1960, the first Mazda automobile - the R360 coupe - was developed, and the company's foray into the production of passenger vehicles began in full force. Work on a small sedan began in the late 1930s, but development was halted so the company could pitch in with Japan's war effort. Company founder Jujiro Matsuda chose the word "Mazda" because it was the name of the Zoroastrian god of good and light. The Toyo Cork Kogyo Company, founded in 1920 in Hiroshima, Japan, used the name "Mazda" for its first three-wheeled truck, built in 1931.
