Gas prices are steadily going up, and the government is not only making stricter emission standards but also making the manufacturers meet tougher average mpg figures for their lineup of cars to meet. What does all this mean?  The hybrids are invading!  This decade is all about skinnier, less grippy, fuel saving tires, electric engines, and alternative fuel.  

The leaps in performance are saved for the ultra rich, while one by one the high performance affordable sports cars fall by the wayside.

Well what if you’re just an evil hoonigan?  What if you’d rather not have a car that silently wafts by like a spring breeze?  What if you are such a mad man…that you’re unconcerned with the baby deer and family of rabbits who are apparently inhaling straight from your exhaust pipes and prefer something a little more…exciting?  Maybe you prefer the snarling turbo straight pipe street beasts of yesteryear; the type of ride that would make a Nissan Leaf wilt and blow a hole in the ozone with every up shift.  Let’s have a look back at the best tuners!  They may not meet the emission standards, and they may hurt the manufactures mpg average, but we love them anyway.  Tree huggers may disdain you for driving them and go-green hipsters deem them unnecessary…but the loud, sideways-sliding hoonigans get the warm fuzzies from driving these Top 5 Tuners:

#6. Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX

The Eclipse GSX disappeared after 1999, and there hasn’t been an AWD turbo eclipse since.  While this may not have been a king of the streets, it was still a quick car and put it’s minimal ponies down off the line well.  The 2.0L DOHC turbo engine was a great base for the car tuners as well.  Stock, it had an acceptable 210 hp out of the inline 4 engine and a limited slip diff.  It was almost an Evo “preview” for the states with the same 2.0L Inline 4 single turbo setup, 5-speed manual transmission, and similar AWD drive-train, however the Evo VIII had 271 hp stock.  Despite the slight under-steer issue, this is a great little tuner!

You can kind of think of the GSX as the Evo’s kid brother.  The world might not have room for a new turbo AWD Mitsubishi but I would like to see what kind of sports coupe they could come up with to revive the GSX name.

#5. Subaru STi Coupe

Yes, it’s another AWD turbo coupe from Japan.  The coupe body style Impreza vanished after the turn of the century and sadly has never returned.  By the time the STi made it across the pond it was only available in a 4dr body style, however Subaru did give us a little taste of their street rally car ways with the Impreza 2.5 RS.  There was one thing that was terrible about this car however.  It drew quite a bit of attention to itself as it strongly resembled the turbo model, but only eeked out 165 hp compared to the real deal which was boosted to 276 hp…making the 2.5 seem rather horseless.

The 22B body also looked better than the newer Imprezas, something about the compact 2 door look channeled an R34 GTR. This car didn’t suffer from the excessive understeer that plagued the next Impreza either.  I think it would be great to see them revive the coupe, and bring back a shorter wheelbase STi.  The flat 4 turbo combined with a more nimble chassis would make something worthy of home made Gymkhana videos…I’m talking to you Subaru!  We want to hoon, so give us the backroad boxer that destroys the Evo.

#4.  S2000

Honda has completely shunned their sporting ways and gone all soft on us.  What’s up with that?  The S2K was an absolute street legend!  The Civic Si just isn’t going to cut the mustard…I’m just telling you there is NOTHING exciting or good or fun about FWD, and that’s a fact.  You won’t impress your friends by understeering into a curb, or torque steering into the neighbor’s tree.  Also everyone who does reverse donuts need to be punched in the face, honestly.

For some reason when Honda decides to do an affordable RWD sports car, good things occur.  Just look at the NSX or as you can see above these words, the quite agile, quite fast S2000.  They got 237 hp out of a 2.2L non-turbo I4 DOHC.

So naturally every ricer bolted a turbo onto it to.  The car was also extremely savvy when it came to corners, so for a very affordable price you already had a great stock platform for tuners to build on.  With the resurrection of the NSX upon us, it would be great to see a 2014 S2k although it’s doubtful.  Maybe offer a hardtop this time around so people don’t have to go out and buy one for themselves.  The point, however, is that when Honda actually tries, their donuts make me go nuts.

#3.  Mazda RX-7

Okay let’s not sugar coat this…the RX-7 and RX-8 were a pain in the ass to run on a frequent basis.  Everyone knows they weren’t a daily car, and the rotary engine is about a fussy as they come.  But the hard core RX-7 was a labor of love.

The standard twin turbo system boosted it up to 255 hp…not bad for the early 90′s!  The 50/50 weight distribution made it a bit of a handful under braking, but if we can learn anything from the Viper that means it is easy to kick the arse out, which equals loads of tire squealing fun.

I think it’s also one of the best looking cars ever made, and it sits very low to the ground.  Then Mazda killed the RX name by coming out with the RX-8, which was soft, under-powered, and terrible with fuel consumption.  I can verify that as a previous owner.  The rotary was known for these problems and that’s why it became popular for engine swaps.  If you put a LS1 V8 you would actually improve the fuel economy and have the insane grip and lightness!  2JZ engine swaps became very popular as well (for those of you that don’t know, a 2JZ is a Supra engine).  Mazda needs to bring the RX back with the same simple beautiful looks, only this time with a range of inline 6 cyl engines…from non-turbo to twin turbo.

#2. Nissan 240SX

When you think of drifting, and then type it into youtube because you’re bored at work, almost every video features a Nissan 240SX.  This car goes has gone through about three phases, S13, S14, the Kouki, and finally the S15 which we didn’t get to the States.  That’s the beauty pictured above.  The 240SX came into life entering the 90′s with a 5-speed manual and I4 140 hp engine.  It was eventually given 155 hp in ’91.  In ’95, the S14 made its debut with improved styling (ditching the pop-up head lamps) but remained at only 155 hp.  However the wheelbase was 2″ longer, it had a wider stance, and lost 80 lbs.  In 1997 the exterior changed but the chassis was still the same.  The headlamps looked a little meaner along with the grill and side skirts.  The body style from 97′ to 98′ was referred to as the “Kouki”.  When the S15 slid onto the scene it had an I4 with a turbo that boosted it up to 250hp!  Sadly this car never came to the States, and by 2002 it went out of production.

These cars had ample room in the engine bay to install mods and do engine swaps, and with the RWD platform the possibilities were almost endless!  2JZ, and GT-R engine swaps were very popular.  Also upgrading the 4 cylinder block with a turbo was very common.  While Nissan has the Z series coupes, and the GT-R on the market right now there isn’t much room for another performance line.  What they should do is bring the Silvia back under the Skyline name and have a series of trim levels leading up to Godzilla.  For instance start with the Skyline.  Just a RWD non-turbo inline 4 with a 5-speed and say…250 hp.  Have the same car with a turbo 6-speed for the next step up and give it 300 hp and that would be the Skyline R.  The last trim level before the GT-R would be the Skyline GT, and this would be AWD!  Also put a 3.7 but without turbos.  Tune it to put out the Nismo Z 350 hp and call it a day.  There you go Nissan!  I have it all laid out here, now just go and do it!

#1. Toyota Mark IV Supra

The Mark IV Supra is the king of tuners that has fallen by the wayside.  After the Celica Supra (1982-1986) and the Mark III (1986-1992) the 93′ Supra made a rather choice return sporting a new sexy look.  It was curvaceous and had quite a nice ass.  Like having a hot girl with you out on the town, you just want to be seen with this car! Especially when it’s done right with some aftermarket magic (the car, not the girl.)

The MKIV made its silver screen debut in The Fast and the Furious (2001) which solidified it as street racer royalty.  The base had a 3.0L I6 that had an exciting  220 hp transferred to the rear wheels.  However there was a twin turbo model…which whirred 320 hp from the 2JZ inline 6 to the rear tires, and not only did this make the car a legendary drifter, but the engine itself became one of the most popular engines for swapping into other tuners.  You would frequently find these in Silvias, or RX-7s and RX-8s.  Sadly they quit production for the exports in 1998 and finally ceased all Japanese production in 2002 due to emission standards.  When you see a Mark IV drive by…you look…because they are somewhat rare, hard to find, and special.  The Supra  has an epic presence like a Skyline GT-R!  It’s one of the big boys.

Screw emission standards, bring it back and make it better than ever!  Make an affordable R35 challenger, for a price tag closer to 50K and you have another legend on your hands, Toyota.

Originally posted on

If you’re looking for the best SUV for 2013, check out some that have been named as the best for the year:

2013 Range Rover

In December, 2012, the 2013 Range Rover was named the Best SUV of the upcoming year by Playboy magazine. Another car website quipped that the staff of Playboy have evidently never had to maintain a Range Rover. Kim McCullough, the brand vice president of Land Rover North America, said it was a great way to go into the New Year. He added that Range Rovers were iconic and had been brought to new levels of performance, luxury, and sustainability. The 2013 model is also lighter and stronger due to its all-aluminum structure, the first for an SUV. Panels are bonded together rather than bolted or welded, like a jet aircraft. Playboy’s finding was the result of a number of SUV reviews and ratings by journalist Ken Gross, who has years of experience.

A website that was named as one of the top 20 SUV sites to be found online listed the best SUVs for 2013.

Audi Q3

The Audi Q3 is selling like hot cakes throughout Europe. There had been fears that it would never be seen in the United States, but it made its debut at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. Audi said that it was a new variation of the SUV concept, designed for young fans of winter sports. It’s a sporty and robust compact SUV with many practical attributes, an appearance that’s elegant, and particular design highlights. The basic model has a four-cylinder engine capable of 168hp which can be upgraded a further 40hp. It can reach 60mph in 6.9 seconds.

BMW X1

BMW tried to change the SUV mold with the BMW X1, and produced amazing results. The car is compact and drives exceptionally smoothly due to its six-cylinder engine. It’s ideal for driving both on- and off-road. There are three models to choose from which can feature any of three trims. The X1 is available in 11 metallic colors or black or white. Colors other than black or white increase the cost by $550. The basic model costs $32,350.

Ford Escape

Ford is well-known for manufacturing compact cars that drive very well indeed. It’s Escape SUV can be expected to be no different. It will probably be lighter than Ford’s other SUVs, which will contribute to more efficient fuel consumption. Although the vehicle is compact, there is still a great deal of space within, making it perfect for a small family. The cost is likely to be less than $30,000.

Mazda CX-5

Another vehicle that is quite possibly the best SUV for 2013 is the 2013 Maxda CX-5. Its high-efficiency power trains make it drive like a dream. It has been completely redesigned and will have better fuel efficiency and more power.

Chevy Equinox

Chevrolet claims that the size of its Equinox is “just right” and grants people access to the SUV experience without taxing their wallets unduly. It’s beautiful. Chevrolet makes other vehicles that drive incredibly well. The second-largest automotive classified website said it had an average consumer rating of 4.5.

The best SUV for 2013 will surely be on this list. Are we missing any?

Timothy Chilman subsists from writing. He has written a number of car reviews for motoring.com.au.

Originally posted on

After dropping the RX-8 out of production, Mazda has not yet come up with a good replacement.  They have great looking concepts floating around, but none have made it to production yet.  Sure you still can buy the MX-5, but that is more of a sporty weekend cruiser, it is unassuming and good looking.  They need a car that stands out against the new RWD sports cars, such as the Nissan 370Z, the revamped Audi TT and the fantastic Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ.  The last concept car that made it out to the real world with considerable attention was the Furai, which was more of a Gumpert killer than anything else.  Let’s look at some of the more street suitable ideas they’ve been spewing out, and see if there’s anything behind them.  First on the list is the very stylish RX-9 concept.

RX-9 Concept

This car was surround by a whirlwind of rumors.  It was perceived to be the resurrection of the RX-7 after the RX-8 left many people disappointing with the lack of torque and overall power, coupled with horrendous fuel economy.  The great handling and clever rear doors couldn’t help you look past the issues.  Honestly a rhinoceros would be a more economical daily driver.  I speak from experience being a previous owner.  On top of this, the Wankel Rotary engine was notorious for being moody and flooding, again speaking from personal experience as well.  However this new car was rumored to have 300+hp, and also rumored to combine an apparently powerful rotary engine with hybrid technology from a deal with Toyota.  This electric power would work mostly as an engine booster to improve mid range torque, and also boost mpg during long journeys.  Styling wise, they were onto something good with the RX-8.  To really perfect the styling they needed to get rid of that anime looking smile on the front, and keep the big wheel arches, and simplify the angles on the car to give a new take on a classic Le Mans racing look.

Sales were, again, rumored to begin late this year.  But talk is cheap, and Mazda was already struggling to meet the European requirements for emissions and U.S. requirements for mpg across the brands range of cars.  Thus began the demise of the rotary engine development.  After a while the rumors stopped, and some reported that all of the plans were debunked.  Now there are a couple rumors surrounding a 2017 release of a new  rotary sports car on the 50 year anniversary of the first Mazda rotary engine.  Not to let you guys down who were looking forward to that, but the car isn’t even listed as a concept on the Mazda website.  Rumor has it that they have an MX-5 based RX-7 in the works for a release that would be soon, but something makes me think we would have heard more about this from Mazda themselves recently.  However this next concept almost broke through to becoming a real car.

Kabura

The 244 hp coupe concept made it as far as to be driven on road tests.  I think they could have had something good here if they had stuck with it.  Performance wise Mazda said that it would be based off of the MX-5 like the fabled RX-9.  How can you go wrong with a small coupe based off of the MX-5?  Styling wise it is…well…confusing.  The car has an exterior designed by Franz von Holzhausen, and an interior apparently designed by Spock.

It has a very futuristic look which is good and bad.   However with a rear drive platform and a 16 valve DOHC inline 4 cyl engine, the proper ingredients are there for a cheap sports car.  It also has a clear cover on the hood that shows off the engine, which is pretty cool although it isn’t showing off much.  Two things Mazda should have done.  One is to simplify the exterior so it didn’t look like a submarine.  It looks too “fake” like a toy, and it neither looks aggressive or very fun.  Two is to put it into production replacing the RX-8.  Or maybe looking back on all of this, they should have just put that engine in the RX-8, given it 30 mpg, done a turbo version as well and called it a day.

Taiki

The Taiki was the concept for the next generation of Renesis rotary engines and despite the quirky looks, it is just a front engine rear drive platform.  This was another installment of the “flow” design series, and it was stated to be formed for improved aerodynamics.  The styling is based off of flowing robes that allow a “celestial maiden to fly in Japanese legend ” which is strange, while it is also made to visually express the flow of air.   Maybe they should spend more time designing something that looks like, oh I don’t know, a car?  I’ve been sitting here trying to think of some clever insult about the looks, but it is just too far out there to really describe.  It is fairly good looking until you get near the back tires then *gasp*…it looks like a Plymouth Prowler crashed into the back of it!

The interior is pretty outlandish too, with an awkward looking steering wheel and rev counter lights that wrap around the driver.  At the bottom of the article there is a video showcasing all the other futuristic nuances of the car.  The Taiki sums up their problems, and is a perfect example of why we don’t have an RX-8 replacement yet.  Besides the emissions laws and mpg standards enforced on car companies making it difficult to produce a real simple sports car anymore, they spend all their time making outrageous prototypes that never will meet the showroom floor.  In other words, there may not be anything beyond the MX-5 for the next few years.

A video highlighting the “future of the Mazda sports car”:

Originally posted on

With the month of December gone, some motorsport fans may be going through withdrawal in North America. Some of us are counting down the days for the Rolex 24 at Daytona (set for January 26th) while other hardcore supporters of NASCAR and INDYCAR are stuck waiting a little bit longer for action 2013 racing action to commence. Excited to say old favourites return to professional racing competition, the 2013 motorsport season brings the addition of some new faces and especially new racing equipment.

The following represent some of the 2013 racing vehicles fans can expect to see competing, and potentially in victory lane for the upcoming season.

Bentley Continental GT3 Car

In the early part of the 20th century, W.O. Bentley turned aviation expertise into a series of precision British performance machines. Pioneering technology such as an overhead cam four valve per cylinder engine layout, Le Mans and even the Indianapolis 500 were proving ground for an ambitious new auto company. Part of the first 24 Hours of Le Mans automobile race in 1923, Bentley finished 4th but would become a powerful juggernaut winning five of the next seven 24-hour races in France. The sale of Bentley Motors Limited to Rolls-Royce in 1931 put the kibosh to racing activities as the brand was recognized as super luxury brand.

Fast-forward over 80 years, a production-based Bentley Continental GT3 concept car is signalling a return to sports car racing. Recalling that Bentley returned to Le Mans between 2001 and 2003 with the brand’s sixth win coming in final year, the Speed 8 was a specialized prototype racer that involved technology from the competition-built Audi R8. While Volkswagen Group inspiration is part of modern Bentley vehicles, the Continental GT3 uses the road-going GT Speed version and pairs it with aerodynamic and other performance tweaks.

Bentley has indicated that a return to auto racing is set for later in 2013 but has not identified a series.

Nissan DeltaWing

Heading into 2013, the Nissan DeltaWing is already a celebrated race car design. Participating in two events during the 2012 sports car racing season, no spectator could mistake the DeltaWing race car for anything else on the race track. With a Nissan turbocharged 1.6 liter engine and a lower weight than other prototype race machines, the DeltaWing chassis proved to be more than a novelty when the #0 car finished the 2012 Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta in 5th place. Although the Nissan DeltaWing operated as an unclassified entry (meaning it could not officially claim any class honours) this past season, the American Le Mans Series has approved the Nissan DeltaWing vehicle as a full-fledged entry in 2013. There has been no announcement specifically in what class the DeltaWing will run. Pace at Le Mans and Road Atlanta was equal to the P2 Class racing machines.

Ford Fusion NASCAR Sprint Cup Stock Car

Ford’s latest generation mid-sized sedan enters vehicle showroom as an ever-important vehicle for 2013. Competing in a vehicle sector occupied by the Hyundai Sonata, Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord just to name a few, the 2013 Ford Fusion will be balancing family sedan practicality with technology for advanced electronics and alternative powertrains. The new 2013 Ford Fusion will also have a place on the upcoming NASCAR Sprint Cup schedule where will attempt to atone for next season’s shortfalls.

While 2012 started promising for Ford with Matt Kenseth dominating the late stage of the Daytona 500 on route to victory, the manufacturer title was collected by an alliance of Chevrolets and Brad Keselowski driving a Dodge Charger claimed the driver’s championship. The 2013 Ford Fusion stock car has even more to prove than its vaguely related production counterpart. The last driver of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series to pilot a Ford to the season-ending title was Kurt Busch in 2004. In that occasion, a Ford Taurus body sailed Busch to the Sprint Cup.

Showing off the Aston Martin-sourced exterior design as a charming silhouette, 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup series team are intent to steer the new Ford Fusion to victory in as many of the 36 points-paying events possible in the elite stock car tour.

Chevrolet Camaro NASCAR Nationwide Series Stock Car

Starting in this 2013 NASCAR season, the Chevrolet camp will be represented by an each major division will be represented by dedicated product between the Sprint Cup and shorter distance Nationwide Series races. Entering the 2014 Chevrolet SS sedan into Sprint Cup competition, the Chevrolet Camaro is being called into duty as the next NASCAR Nationwide series vehicle.

The Chevrolet Camaro returns to major NASCAR competition since the disbanding of the short-lived Grand American series that ran from 1968 to 1971. A shape, faithful application of the street car’s muscular look, the Chevy Camaro Nationwide Series stock car is certain to be a welcoming sight bowtie badge fans to NASCAR events starting with Daytona Speedweeks in February. At the start of the 2013 NASCAR Nationwide Series season, the Camaro’s appearance on the race grid will reignite a frenzy fight with fellow pony car the Ford Mustang.

Mazda6 SkyActiv-D Clean Diesel GX Car

Auto racing has been and continues to be a vivid test bed for innovative technologies. Promoting all-around breakthroughs like the rear-view mirror on the first Indianapolis 500-winning Marmon Wasp in 1911, motorsports can also provide a meaningful activity for car manufacturers to demonstrate their proprietary technology to a large audience.

With few diesel products sold in the United States compared to other marketplaces on the globe, the daring launch of their SkyActiv-D clean diesel Mazda6 sedan will definitely require an exceptional marketing campaign. Eager to sell the benefits of the 2.2-liter clean diesel engine, the 2014 Mazda6 SkyActiv-D sedan will be exhibited on the racetrack prior to its sale debut later this year. Taking part in brand new sports car GX category operating under the Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series, Mazda is met with incredible coincidence with a production-based class promoting clean diesel and hybrid set to debut at the 2013 Rolex 24 at Daytona. There will be at least three cars campaigning the Mazda6 SkyActiv-D clean diesel in the GX Class in late the January endurance race.

Information and photo source: Bentley Motors Limited , Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Grand-Am, Mazda Motor of America Inc., NASCAR, Nissan North America

Originally posted on

In an era where an increasing amount of business can be done without ever having to set eyes on a customer or employer, many lines of employment continue to require the ability to make a face-to-face presentation. Service-based and sales businesses demand automobiles that fulfill specific duties linked in to making income.

Whether proceeding through the path of purchase or car leasing, current economics necessitates a business-focused vehicle must also be affordably priced and have low cost of operations. There may also be a benefit that a more budget-friendly vehicle in regards to making the important first impression. If a plumber or electrician shows up at a job site in a Bentley, a client could think their hired professional is looking after someone else’s interests rather than what is attached to work. The following list is a few examples of vehicles that could prove suitable for winning or maintaining customers.

Ram Cargo Van

Derived from a leading minivan that has evolved from nearly 30 years of innovation, the Ram Cargo Van was added Chrysler Group’s work duty brand for the 2012 model year. Visually differing from a Dodge Grand Caravan with metal paneling over what would be the rear passenger side windows, the Cargo Van within the Ram brand fosters a professional, business-like capability. Boasting best in class payload and towing capacity, the Ram Cargo Van is propelled confidently with the 283-horsepower, 3.6 liter Pentastar V-6 engine. Commercial vehicle duty components such as an engine oil cooler, stronger suspension and a beefed-up electrical system is standard equipment on the Ram Cargo Van for a dependable performance.

The current design Ram Cargo Van could be discontinued with the likelihood a European-sourced Fiat Group small vehicle will join the large ProMaster in late 2013 or 2014.

Nissan Cube

Demand for Nissan’s quirky Cube compact utility vehicle has taken a measurable drop in 2012. Nevertheless, the wacky little Nissan Cube’s standout style and impressive practicality are notable qualities that have lent itself appropriately to commercial use.

Powered by a 122-horsepower 1.8 liter, reasonable city performance combines with fuel economy that registers at 25 miles per gallon city and 30 miles per gallon highway. For the 2013 model year, commercial entities searching for a fleet vehicle might be unnerved by the reality that Nissan has discontinued the cargo version of the Cube. However, the 2013 model Nissan Cube still provides meaningful urban utility. A maximum cargo space of 58.1 cubic feet allows the facilitation of light deliveries or transport, the Nissan Cube is a rare case where a flashy, attention-grabbing machine has a useful presence. Without doubt, The Nissan Cube can look rather spiffy in the business graphics applied through vehicle wraps.

Ford Transit Connect

A popular work van for professional enterprises entering into a contract hire (a process businesses in the United Kingdom lease vehicles), the Ford Connect Transit sizable cargo capacity paired with a relatively compact size has been a key selling point that eventually brought the van to North America in 2009.

Built on the same platform that conceived the first generation Ford Focus, the Transit Connect embodies car-like handling that comes through front-wheel drive and two liter, four-cylinder powerplant. An impressive 135.3 cubic feet of cargo space and able to haul items of 51.1 inches high upright, the Transit Connect operates as the automotive equivalent of a multi-tool. The Ford Transit Connect’s large side panels have the added benefit of providing a sizable billboard to potential customers.

Reshaped with a major touch-up for the 2014 model year, the Transit Connect is set to be taken even more seriously in the commercial vehicle realm.

Mazda CX-5

When an occupation does not require someone to get their hands dirty, making a good first impression on clients would benefit with a vehicle that projects confidence and a strong worth ethic. An all-new, well-mannered crossover vehicle, the Mazda CX-5 is an affordable way to convey attentive properties.

Ideal for real estate agents and other professionals who actively require a vehicle for acquiring income, the 2013 Mazda CX-5 is smart mover. KODO-derived (also known as Soul of Motion) exterior styling, a peppy 155-horsepower, 2-liter inline-four cylinder prescribing to Mazda’s SkyActiv technology and a full array of safety features make the CX-5 crossover vehicle a good candidate for a company car. An available navigation system incorporating TomTom GPS technology will be insurance that you will always arrive at important meetings on time.

With the right vehicle in the new year, making 2013 into a financially prosperous time is reachable.

Information source: Chrysler Group, Ford Motor Company, Mazda Motor of America, Nissan North America

Photo source: Chris Nagy, Chrysler Group, Ford Motor Company

Originally posted on

The mid-size sedan segment is fresher and more competitive than it has ever been. Just recently the Chevrolet Malibu, the Toyota Camry, Nissan Maxima, Honda Accord and Ford Fusion have been significantly redesigned. It is in this highly competitive atmosphere that Mazda launches the new 6 sedan.

Fortunately, it has the goods to compete. Undoubtedly it has one of the most stylish exterior designs in the segment, as well as having competitive powertrain setup. It is a breath of fresh air compared to the previous generation Mazda6. Until now we have heard that the 2014 Mazda6 would be very efficient but we haven’t had any official data.

In advance of the Environmental Protections Agency’s official mpg numbers, Autoblog has gotten ahold of the vehicle’s “Display Vehicle Playbook” from an anonymous source. From it we learned that the car will return 27 mpg city and 38 mpg highway. These numbers are some of the best in the segment, save for the nearly-identical 2013 Nissan Altima. The 6′s 2.5-liter Skyactiv four-cylinder makes 184 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque according to the AB report. This is the lone engine choice for the moment.

If you will remember though, Mazda announced the upcoming availability 2.2 liter Skyactiv – D diesel engine. If the 6 is posting these kinds of numbers with a gas engine, we can only imagine what it will get with a diesel engine. Given that only Volkswagon offers diesel in a mid-size sedan, this is going to make the 6 a real stand-out. Mazda is planning a huge push for the car next year, and AB reports that hundreds of new models are on dealer lots already. Given that the car is a 2014 model though, they are unable to be driven or sold until the beginning of the year. The 6′s official sale date is January 2nd. Given that the last few days of December see some of the best showroom traffic, Mazda wants to capitalize on that by having the new 6 available for people to see.

Originally posted on

After years of obscurity and being relegated to low-volume status, diesels may be finally coming into their own in the United States. This years Los Angeles International Auto Show has been great for diesel enthusiasts, seeing the debut of four Audi TDI models aimed at offerings from BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

On the mainstream side, Mazda has just confirmed the introduction of a diesel engine in the all-new 2014 Mazda6. The 6 made its first U.S appearance at the LA show. Realizing that it has been left behind in the fuel efficiency wars, Mazda has started a new initiative called SkyActiv.

This effort has produced some interesting solutions, such as very high compression four-cylinder engines and brake regeneration technology dubbed i-Eloop. Combined with a focus on reducing weight, the initiatives have been pretty successful so far. The next phase is diesel power. With the SkyActiv-D engine, Mazda is only the second company to have a diesel in a mainstream mid-size car and the first for a Japanese automaker. The only company with a mid-size diesel right now is Volkswagen, with its hot-seling Passat TDI.

At Mazda, the particular unit in question is a 2.2-liter four-cylinder, making 173 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. In Europe, this engine also does duty in the CX-5 crossover, meaning we could see a launch in that car also. With the standard Mazda6, already expected to return great fuel economy, we can only imagine what kind of numbers the Mazda6 SkyActiv-D will return. The larger Passat TDI, which has one extra cylinder, gets nearly 50 miles to the gallon on the highway. Chevrolet has the Cruze diesel and we hear that other companies like Kia could have diesel models in the works as well. We’re glad to see Mazda standing out with offerings like this: the Mazda6 is shaping up to be a very compelling package.

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After several decades where small cars served as a comic relief to the line-ups for several automotive brands, subcompact cars today are engineered with more dedicated intent. An important automotive product niche in North America, the subcompact vehicle category has presented new expectations to car buyers in the 21st century. Attempting to welcome younger buyers with a positive, entry-level showcase of a car company, the low cost vehicles are paramount to automotive brands despite it being the worse business model for companies. Lower priced vehicles offer little profit or had even been sold as a loss leader for automakers.

For over three decades, Toyota provided thrifty subcompact cars under the name Tercel, Echo and now Yaris to the United States as the entry-level product to their model line-up. By the summer of 2015, North American new car buyers will become acquainted to Toyota’s strikingly different method for marketing a vehicle on the continent. Toyota dealerships will have a subcompact based off the Mazda2.

Taking a departure from production patterns that saw almost all subcompact cars sold by Japanese based auto companies built in their homeland and exported to North America, Toyota’s upcoming 2015 car will be produced in a Mazda manufacturing plant currently under construction in Mexico. The Toyota and Mazda partnership in itself is a striking development that is starting to become a new trend. One notable example of a new norm for Toyota is the co-development with Subaru including the rear-wheel drive sports car line sold as the Scion FR-S, Subaru BRZ and the Toyota GT-86 in non-North American markets. Japanese automakers are continuing to search for cost-savings in light of the pricy development process for vehicles complicated by the Japanese Yen. In fact, vehicle development costs were cited as a reason that the sale of Suzuki automobiles is being suspended in the United States.

A smaller auto company compared to Toyota, Mazda’s had long relied on partnerships with other automakers. Mazda’s ties with Ford have been the more revealing. The relationship started in the 1970s when a Mazda-built compact truck called the Ford Courier was first sold. As Ford Motor Company acquired ownership interest in Mazda in 1979, a formal partnership was forged for the North American market. Allowing several vehicles to be jointly developed over several decades, the alliance ended in 2010. It‘s also an interesting tidbit that Mazda provided Kia Motors with the platforms for their very first automobiles in 1974.

Announced in 2011, shovels hit the grounds for the Mexican manufacturing plant located in the city of Salamanca in October. Initially dedicated to the assembly of future Mazda2 and Mazda3, the auto company forecasts 140,000 in yearly capacity once the facility is constructed. As Toyota enters the deal, their branded subcompact cars are expected to flow at a capacity of 50,000 vehicles annually. The Salamanca plant is set to start operations in late 2014 for Mazda vehicles with Toyota products added soon after.

Information source: Mazda Motor Corporation, Toyota Motor Corporation
Photo source: Chris Nagy

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The 2013 Mazda CX-5 is an all new five-passenger compact crossover utility vehicle. It looks like Mazda has hit a home run with the new CX-5 with its sporty styling, agile driving dynamics and excellent fuel-economy. The new CX-5 is replacing the slow-selling CX-7 and Mazda is smart to do so. The competitive compact utility vehicle category is loaded with good options for buyers and Mazda needed to come up with a winner.

All-new design

It starts underneath where the Mazda CX-5 gets new unibody construction. The new platform includes the latest SkyActiv engine technology that produces excellent fuel-efficiency. The CX-5 was designed from the ground up and it also gets a freshly designed exterior.  Mazda will use the latest underpinnings and technology from the CX-5 on future models if it’s as successful as they think it will be.

From the outside, the 2013 CX-5 doesn’t look that big, but the overall size is larger than the 2012 Honda CR-V and the CX-5 wheelbase is 3.2 inches longer. The Mazda CX-5 Sport base model that we’ll be testing has seating for five adults and is a good choice for budget minded consumers. It comes with an extensive list of standard features.

Sport offers a six-speed manual

This 2013 CX-5 Sport front-wheel drive base model came with a six-speed manual transmission ($20,695). It’s the only CX-5 that offers the manual transmission option. The CX-5 Sport comes standard with cloth sport seats, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio with four speakers, USB, tilt/telescopic steering wheel with remote controls, remote keyless entry, power windows and locks, remote power mirrors with turn signal lamps, 60/40 split fold-down rear seats, push-button start, rear roof spoiler, and Halogen headlamps.

The cabin of the CX-5 Sport features high quality materials and uses liberal soft-touch vinyl throughout the surfaces. It has a simple but well designed cabin. Storage and cargo capacity is about equal to the competition. The back seats are comfortable for two adults and the rear seats fold nearly flat for loading large cargo items. Cargo capacity is 34 cubic feet behind the rear seats, which expands to 65 cubic feet with the rear seatbacks folded forward, which is slightly less than the Honda CR-V.

Excellent fuel-mileage

The 2013 CX-5 was designed with a new lightweight frame that uses high-tensile steel in its structure. Honda notes that the CX-5 Sport front-wheel-drive weighs just 3208 pounds which is 288 pounds lighter than the CX-7, and almost 100 pounds less than a similar Honda CR-V. The weight savings allows the CX-5 to achieve some excellent fuel-mileage numbers.

The new CX-5 gets an EPA-estimated 26/35 mpg city/highway with front-wheel drive and 6-speed manual. The SkyActive engine takes regular unleaded, and according to Mazda, the new crossover gets the best fuel economy in its class and the best fuel economy on the highway of any SUV.

The SkyActiv technology from Mazda is used in the new CX-5. The main piece of the technology is the 2.0-liter four-cylinder Skyactiv engine. The technology involves a number of friction-reducing measures, a high-efficiency exhaust manifold design, an exceptionally high compression ratio of 13:1, and the powerplant runs on regular unleaded gasoline at the pump. Automakers are making great strides in engine technology and Mazda has already achieved 40 mpg with the engine in the Mazda3. For a mid-size crossover, the CX-5 gets exceptional fuel-efficiency.

Sport offers good value

The 2013 CX-5 won’t win many races, but the 2.0-liter engine produces a respectable 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. The engine motivates the crossover with enough authority to navigate most driving situations. The manual six-speed transmission is a pleasure to shift with short throws and crisp shifts. Although most buyers will opt for the six-speed automatic. But the front-wheel-drive with the manual gearbox will be the quickest.

The 2013 CX-5 has much competition to contend with. The segment is full of good crossovers like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Kia Sportage, Subaru Forester, Nissan Rogue, and Ford Escape. But the CX-5 has a lot going for it. It offers attractive styling, good handling, comfort, versatility, and excellent fuel mileage. And with a starting price of just $20,695, the 2013 Mazda CX-5 Sport is a good value. If buyers are looking for sporty, the front-wheel-drive CX-5 Sport with a six-speed manual gearbox is the way to go.

See how much this car should cost you. Hint: It's not MSRP - get Free Price Quotes at Edmunds.com

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If we were looking for a small sedan in 2004/2005, the first generation Mazda3 hatchback would have been our choice. It was one of the best in the segment inside and out, and it offered a sporty driving character. It undoubtedly carved a reputation as the enthusiasts choice, a significant development given that Mazda has always been the also ran.

The Japanese manufacturers like Toyota, Honda and Nissan got the attention, but the 3 helped change that up. Fast forward to today and the competition has eclipsed the 3. It isn’t regarded the way it once was. The same thing happened with the previous generation 6. For 2014 Mazda has come back with a vengeance, course correcting with a stylish and competitive redesign to the Mazda6.

For one, the car has gotten rid of the cartoonish look, following the all-new CX-5 crossover in debuting a new “Kodo” styling language. The change is much welcomed, and makes the 6 the best-looking mid-sizer along with the Ford Fusion. Car and Driver reports that the 3 is in for the same treatment. It commissioned a rendering of the design that we think is a big step forward and probably a good preview of what is to come. If the 6 is any indication, the new compact is going to be a looker.

Enough about styling though – there is even more good news when it comes to specifications. Mazda has been on a push for fuel efficiency with Skyactiv, and that will include a reduction in weight for the next-generation car. And not just 50 pounds either – C&D says the new platform could reduce curb weight by hundreds of pounds. Lighter, more agile, better performing and more efficient – we like the sounds of that. The current 3 received an end-of-life update recently that included Mazda’s new 2.0-liter Skyactiv four-cylinder. The high-compression four makes 155 horsepower and it will carry over to the new model. The engine helped boost mileage of the current 3 up to 40 on the highway. The more svelte next-generation 3 should see that number rise even further. Overall, it looks like Mazda is taking the right steps to get it back into its place as an enthusiasts favorite.

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The project to restore Alfa Romeo and make it a global brand has taken on a personal dimension for Fiat’s Chief Executive Officer Sergio Marchionne. He is absolutely committed to seeing the effort through. To do that, he will do whatever it takes.

It’s no big secret in the automotive industry – Marchionne has said he will sign partnership deals with anyone and everyone. He is constantly out looking for them, and the perfect opportunity with Mazda arose recently. One of the things on his wish list for Alfa Romeo has been a small roadster.

The perfect opportunity to see it to fruition came through a partnership with Mazda on the next-generation MX-5 platform. It came at the right time for Mazda, who is looking for partners as well. An Alfa Romeo model built at the same factory in Japan will add economies of scale and research and development dollars. It’s a win-win for everyone.

As it isn’t due until 2015, we haven’t heard much about the Alfa Romeo model except that it would look completely different from the MX-5 Miata. British magazine What Car? has revealed that the two cars will be different in price and positioning. Also, the Alfa variant would be powered by Fiat’s significantly more powerful MultAir turbocharged four-cylinder engine. That’s about what we expected – there definitely is room for a new lightweight and sporty roadster on the market. Also in the article is comments by Mazda head Takashi Yamanouchi about potential future tie-ups with Fiat. He said if the roadster project is a success, Fiat and Mazda could partner on things like engine swaps (Mazda’s Skyactiv for Fiat’s MultiAir, etc) as well as deeper ones like the roadster deal. Right now though we’re eager to see what the Italian automaker comes up with on the MX-5 platform.

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The 2014 Mazda6 launched a few days ago at the Moscow Auto Show. Predictably, the rumor mill has already begun churning about what is next. Mazda has always put a particular emphasis on performance, giving added appeal to its mainstream models. Mazdaspeed3s are highly rated, particularly previous generation models (which look better in our opinion).

Given the 6′s stylish good looks, from the get go we thought it was just begging to get the Mazdaspeed6 treatment. Style, performance, Japanese reliability and a good price – it could be an appealing proposition. Auto Express spoke with the car’s program manager, Hiroshi Kajiyama, who said the company is looking to produce one. “There is a high potential for this, and it would be helpful to the brand,” says Kajiyama. You think?

Kajiyama (in a pure marketing effort) stated that the standard 6 was benchmarked against Audi A4, BMW 3-Series and VW Passat. They all say stuff like that, but the proof will be in the pudding. The result though is a car that Kajiyama says will be considered the best drive in its class. Given Mazda’s history, we could see that being the case. If produced, the Mazdaspeed6 would focus on a reduction in weight, and possibly including all-wheel drive. A performance model would make Mazda stand out in the mid-size sedan segment; the rest of the bunch doesn’t offer anything particularly hard core.

Elsewhere, Autocar reports that a coupe version could be in the works as well. It would occupy a small slice of the market – only Honda and Nissan offer mid-size coupes at this point. Chevrolet reportedly considering making a Malibu Coupe briefly. For now though, Mazda is focusing on launching the volume sedan and wagon (for Europe) versions of the 6. As Mazda said. the potential is there; the 6 is begging for additional variants.

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The hotly contested mid-size sedan segment has just got even fiercer. Mazda has been teasing the redesigned 6 sedan for quite a while, and it has finally broke cover at the Moscow Auto Show. Yes, you read that right – it is a curious choice given it isn’t a major show or market for Mazda. It definitely will get center stage there though, so that could be a bonus. At Mazda the previous generation cars all displayed a cartoonish look.

With the 6, that all changes. It has adopted Mazda’s new “Kodo” styling language, first previewed by the Takeri Concept and CX-5 crossover. The 6 takes things even further than the CX-5, hewing close to the Takeri. The new 6 has flowing and elegant lines that lend it a premium air. In fact, judged on these photographs we’d probably say this is one of the best looking mid-sizers out there, along with the 2013 Ford Fusion.

Welcome back Mazda – the original 6 was a hit, the second a dud. This one is far better than either – third time is the charm right? Moving inside, the interior strikes you as upscale again. But wait a second, we’ve seen this layout before – at Mercedes-Benz. There are only so many ways to structure an interior, but we do see strong C-Class influence in the interior – and that isn’t a bad thing in the least. The head unit navigation unit doesn’t seem to be integrated very well into the upper dash, but we’ll reserve judgement for in person. What the 6 has that the C-Class doesn’t is a sculptured door designed that flow into the upper dash. Very nice. Like past Mazdas, the seats are sport focused as well, with ribbed leather elements and a two-tone design. The interior trim can be body color if you so choose, a nice touch.

Powertrains haven’t been announced for the United States, but we do know it will be a range of Skyactiv four-cylinders. The aforementioned engines and Mazda’s “i-Eloop” energy recovery system and stop/start tech will help to greatly boost mileage figures. Mazda says the 6 will go on sale later this year.

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Mazda has been a smart player in the auto industry over the past several years. While the 1990s consisted of several missteps including the aborted plans of creating their own luxury sub-brand for North America, Mazda has realized it’s best to focus on their core business of building small, affordable vehicles. Creating fun-looking small automobiles has allowed Mazda to attract the modern marketplace now hungry for these type of vehicles. In the United States alone, sales of Mazda products in 2011 was more than 9 percent higher than the year prior. With family sedans in high demand, the Mazda6 is the second-most popular model (behind the compact Mazda3) in the brand’s United States line-up. Debuting to a Russian public at the Moscow International Automobile Salon 2012 late August, the new Madza6 has been reshaped and reengineered with the Japanese automaker’s KODO ‘Soul in Motion’ design philosophy.

While the overall silhouette of sedan is not a remarkable departure from the currently-sold Mazda6 model, the 2014 mid-sized four-door does receive treatment to the front and read corners. The Mazda flagship is the second recipient of the KODO design language meant for production. The more upright grille appearance and the sweeping chrome trim trying together the stylish headlamps are characteristics first instituted in production on the Mazda CX-5 crossover. The rear end of the 2014 Mazda6 is also granted a striking yet more mature look. Overall, the new Mazda6 adheres closely to the brand’s TAKERI Concept car shown off at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show.

The 2014 Mazda6 sedan will also involve powertrain technology highlighted in the Tokyo Motor Show’s TAKERI Concept. As can be expected from a Mazda, SkyActiv technology is going to have a key role in the movement of their 2014 sedan. When presented in Moscow, the Mazda6 will be powered by a direct-injected, 2.0 liter SkyActiv-G engine. Along with the main gasoline powerplant, Mazda’s i-ELOOP brake energy regeneration system arrives in production form with the Mazda6. I-ELOOP is a fuel-saving technology that uses electrical capacitors to quickly store and discharge zero-emission energy. Power of the 2014 Mazda6 will be shifted through a SkyActiv-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission.

The Mazda four-door vehicle shown in Russia should very closely resemble what North American audiences will see in the near future. The release date, model trims and pricing for the Mazda6 is not been announced but should be announced in the next few months. Seeking to encompass a wide market, the 2014 Mazda6 is being targeted as a sporty, stylish and luxurious sedan.

Information and photo source: Mazda Motor Corporation

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The Mazda CX-5 has been completely redesigned for the 2013 model year and is an all-new five-passenger compact crossover utility vehicle. The 2013 Mazda CX-5 competes in one of the fastest growing segments in the industry and needed major updates to help it stand out. The segment includes some very successful vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue and Kia Sportage. The all-new Mazda CX-5 is trying to set itself apart with new styling, fuel-sipping technology and sporty handling.

Mazda redesigned the new 2013 CX-5 from the ground up and it replaces the CX-7 and is a bit taller than the outgoing model. And the two-wheel drive version is 288 pounds lighter than the CX-7. Mazda was able to reduce weight by using extra high-tensile steel in its construction. The new compact crossover is larger than it looks. Overall length, width, and height of the new CX-5 is bigger than its number one competitor, the new 2012 Honda CR-V, and weighs 100 pounds less.

Grand Touring upgrades

This week we’re testing the CX-5 Grand Touring AWD model ($28,295). It comes well-equipped with leather seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bose Surround Sound with nine speakers, Sirius Radio, power moonroof, eight-way power driver’s seat, heated front seats, auto on/off headlights, rain-sensing wipers, heated mirrors, and 19-inch alloy wheels.

The Grand Touring Tech Package ($1325) added the navigation system, advanced keyless and start, adaptive HID headlights with auto leveling, auto-dim mirror, HomeLink, and anti-theft. A 5.8-inch touch screen displays the TomTom-based navigation system that includes voice recognition and real-time traffic info. The CX-5 also includes plenty of infotainment technology. Bluetooth, iPod connectivity, a nine-speaker Bose audio system and HD radio all come standard on the new crossover. A USB/AUX connector is provided in the big center console storage bin.

Cabin features

Inside, the 2013 Mazda CX-5 seats five adults and getting in and out is easy with the extra ground clearance of 8.5 inches with the all-wheel-drive. The front bucket seats offer plenty of extra support and are sportier than most in this segment. The interior gets higher quality materials using soft-touch vinyl and very little hard plastic is found in the cabin. Instrumentation and controls are well designed and are easy to operate and see. Storage space is decent up front with door liners and lots of cupholders in front and back.

Mazda says there is seating for five adults, but the back seats are comfortable for two for extended distances. Cargo capacity is average at 34 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and expands to 65 cubic feet with the rear seatbacks folded forward and flat. The rear seatbacks are split 40/20/40 on the Grand Touring and can be folded forward separately, allowing more flexibility between passengers and for carriying extra long items.

SkyActiv technology

The 2013 Mazda CX-5 uses the latest SkyActiv-G technology that combines exceptional power with fuel-saving efficiency. The 2.0-liter engine utilzes the latest direct-injection and has a very high compression ratio. Mazda says its the highest in the world for any production engine. Mazda engineers had to develop a special engine design in order to make the ultra-high compression engine work.

Although it produces high efficiency and high power, it can be a problem to run on regular gas without the engine “knocking.” Engineers redesigned the pistons, high-pressure fuel injection, and exhaust manifold in order to make it all work. The result is an efficient, powerful, naturally aspirated four-cylinder. The new 2013 CX-5 has an EPA estimated fuel mileage rating of 25/31 city/highway.

The engine is mated to a new Skyactiv six-speed automatic that is exceptionally smooth, delivering good performance in all driving situations. The shifter can be left in Drive, or it can be manually engaged for up and down shifting. The 2013 Mazda CX-5 doesn’t deliver head-snapping power, but it has better than expected performance. The engine performed well driving on the highway at high speeds and driving up I-70 at elevation in the mountains.

The suspension is more on the sporty side and the CX-5 handles well in the corners with minimal body lean and roll for a crossover. Ride quality is firm and feels more like a European model. This CX-5 tester came with the optional all-wheel-drive that automatically apportions power front-to-rear depending on traction conditions. Normally drive power is sent to the front wheels, but can be apportioned up to 50 percent depending on conditions.

Conclusion

The all-new 2013 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD is impressive with its fuel economy, luxury features, infotainment technology, styling, and sporty attitude. And while acceleration is average, its agility and sport suspension makes the CX-5 fun to drive. Add in all-wheel-drive and you have an exceptionally capable compact crossover utility vehicle.

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