Behind the Wheel | 2007 Mazdaspeed 3: Hatchback Slathered in Hot Sauce March 10, 2007
The Mazdaspeed 3, a higher-performance version of Mazda?s compact hatchback, is a standout in the ranks of pocket rockets. WHEN they introduced the Mazda 3 sedan and four-door hatchback-cum-wagon in 2003, the Mazda people had a spiel that went something like this: “The kids these days! They want everything! They’re paying 16 grand but they want a mini-Mercedes, so that’s what we have to give them. Even though, back in our day, entry-level cars had cardboard steering wheels, and if you wanted a sunroof you had to wait for a rust hole to form above your head — which usually …
Design: Mazda and Volvo Try on New Genes March 9, 2007
Recent concept cars from two of Ford?s foreign subsidiaries are pushing the envelope, envisioning more expressive and more extroverted cars. STEVE MATTIN has a problem with old Volvos: there are so many. “There are millions of boxy ones out there,” Volvo’s new vice president and director for design grumbled in a recent interview. “We want to move beyond the box.” One might assume that Volvo would view an abundance of old cars on the road as a rolling testament to the virtues for which it is known: durability and a functional design that transcends fashion. But Mr. Mattin …
2006 MX-5: More Miata, Minus the Name August 13, 2006
The 2006 MX-5 is an exceptional sports roadster, one certainly worthy of carrying on its predecessor?s reputation. Unless, that is, you have spent much time behind the wheel of the original. FIRST, a disclaimer: I am a former Mazda Miata owner and a confirmed lover of the breed of sports cars it represents. So the opinions expressed henceforth must be weighed against the reality that the 2006 MX-5 is an exceptional sports roadster, one certainly worthy of carrying on its predecessor?s reputation. Unless, that is, you have spent much time behind the wheel of the original.The best way I …
Mazda invests in Ford’s Chinese joint venture April 4, 2006
The Chinese government has approved Mazda’s investment in Ford’s Chinese joint venture Changan Ford Automobile. Read more
Mazda launches new SUV in US
Mazda is preparing to move even deeper into the traditional stronghold of the US’ ‘big four’ car manufacturers with the launch of its CX-9 SUV. Read more