2013 Mazda CX-5

Award-Winning Compact Crossover SUV Boasts Best-in-Class Fuel Economy

The latest arrival to the Zoom-Zoom family and the first to fully incorporate the full suite of SKYACTIV®1 technologies, the all-new 2013 Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover SÚV that offers the best highway fuel economy of any SÚV sold in North America, at 35 miles per gallon (mpg), and features class-leading overall fuel economy performance versus its direct competitors.

'The 2013 CX-5 is the vehicle compact SÚV shoppers have been asking for - that only Mazda can build,' said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO). 'Poised to join a fast-growing and increasingly competitive segment, the all-new CX-5 offers more than just flash and features. Consumers also receive the performance and driving dynamics that have become synonymous with the Mazda brand. With its SKYACTIV underpinnings and best-in-class fuel economy, CX-5 proves that 'fun' needn't be sacrificed for efficiency and that 'compact' doesn't mean compromise.'

As the segment newcomer, all eyes are undoubtedly on the CX-5. Not one to enter the room and simply be a wallflower, CX-5 captures your attention - and keeps it. From its sleek styling and superior handling to unprecedented fuel economy and competitive pricing, who wouldn't want to ask this compact crossover SÚV for a dance? Only Mazda can create a vehicle that evokes such a level of passion, performance and poise. And automotive critics agree that the all-new 2013 CX-5 cannot be ignored. The vehicle has already received industry awards for being the best in its segment - 2012 Drivers' Choice Award for 'Best Small Útility Vehicle' from MotorWeek and '2012 Crossover of the Year' from Autobytel.com.

All new from the ground up, from sketch book to showroom floor, CX-5 began with a philosophy. Jinbai ittai, the oneness between car and driver, is instilled within every Mazda. Regardless of purpose - from the large-on-fun, small-in-size Mazda2 to the three-row, tow-the-kids-and-the-in-laws family hauler CX-9 - all Mazdas have a distinct feeling behind the wheel. But can we make that connection even better, in a more efficient, dynamic car? Enter SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY.

Developed as part of Mazda's 'Sustainable Zoom-Zoom' strategy, SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY was developed based on creating overall vehicle efficiency, and perfectly complements the car-and-driver marriage of performance and passion. Not just a new engine. Not just a new transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) Not just a new body or a new chassis. More than a bigger bolt or a fancy fender flare that others feel qualify as 'all new,' CX-5 truly answers the questions of more space, more utility, better handling, better safety, increased performance and increased fuel economy. This is why the clean slate that is SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY will be the pillar of Mazda's next-generation of vehicles.

Efficiency in Engineering

Developed solely by Mazda, SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY is not a package or trim level but an all-encompassing, deeply imbedded philosophy that obtaining more power, more torque and more miles per gallon does not mean sacrificing fuel economy, design or safety. Its first North American application was in Mazda's best-selling vehicle, the Mazda3, which was refreshed for the 2012 model year with a SKYACTIV engine and transmissions. CX-5 is the first global vehicle to receive all SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY components.

Únder an expansive hood lies the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine. Developers of the SKYACTIV-G engine were aiming for a lightweight design that produced more from less. At 13:1, SKYACTIV-G features the world's highest compression ratio for a mass-produced car. Coupled with an all-new 4-2-1 exhaust system as well as redesigned pistons and other components, challenges associated with high compression (such as knocking and operation on 87-octane fuel) were resolved. As a result, SKYACTIV-G is 10 percent lighter, delivers more torque, improves fuel economy and lowers emissions when compared to the MZR 2.0-liter gasoline engine.

CX-5 delivers 155 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 150 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. Redline is achieved at 6,500 rpm. With a svelte 3,208-pound body (FWD, SKYACTIV-MT models), CX-5 is one of the lightest vehicles in the segment. With a choice of transmissions in either the SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual or SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic, a 2,000-pound towing capacity and an optional all-new all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, the 2013 CX-5 truly offers a little of everything for everyone.

The SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission (Sport models) brings the crisp, tight shifting and direct, sporty feeling of the MX-5 to the CX-5. To accomplish this, not only was the shift-lever stroke shortened by about 10 percent compared to the current six-speed manual transmission but other technologies were applied as well: a down-type system that uses the forces of gravity to ease upshifts, lock ball-type synchronizer for smooth gear changes, shift load canceller to make the lever action lighter, slide ball bearing and locating 2nd and 3rd gears on a common shaft that drastically reduces the size and weight of the unit. SKYACTIV-MT is lighter by approximately 4.4 pounds, while still achieving a quicker and precise response feel. Only Mazda would go to this level of detail on a manual transmission in an SÚV, but only in the details can the depth of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY's engineering philosophy truly be seen.

The SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission combines the best features of today's transmission technologies by integrating the key advantages of a conventional automatic transmission, Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). At low speeds, SKYACTIV-Drive acts like a conventional torque-converter automatic, with all the benefits of easy and smooth speed control that these conventional systems offer. At higher speeds (more than five to eight mph), the torque converter is locked and the transmission operates with all the benefits of a dual clutch - fast shifts, minimal power-delivery interruption and rev-matched downshifts. Additionally, SKYACTIV-Drive is smaller and lighter, and contributes a fuel efficiency increase of approximately four to seven percent over conventional transmissions.

And because SKYACTIV-Drive is only available in a Mazda, it offers a fully manual mode, with gears selected by pushing forwards on the console-mounted lever to downshift, pulling backwards to upshift - the same way all racecars are operated. The benefits of SKYACTIV-Drive can only be found in a Mazda, and offer a marked improvement in both drivability and fuel economy versus its competitors.

Both SKYACTIV-MT and SKYACTIV-Drive were developed at the same time, and both were clean-sheet-of-paper designs, which enables Mazda to design the two units to be built on a common assembly line - the only manufacturer in the world to build manual and automatic transmissions on a common line. This leads to drastically increased efficiencies in production.

Boasting the best highway fuel economy of any SÚV in North America, the 2013 CX-5 offers an EPA estimated 35 mpg on FWD models and 31 mpg on AWD models. Front-wheel-drive (FWD) models equipped with the standard SKYACTIV-MT are EPA rated with an estimated fuel economy of 26 city/35 highway/29 combined mpg. When equipped with the optional SKYACTIV-Drive, CX-5 FWD models receive an mpg rating of 26 city/32 highway/29 combined. SKYACTIV-Drive is standard on AWD models, which return an estimated EPA fuel economy rating of 25 city/31 highway/28 combined mpg. The combined city and highway fuel economy of 29 mpg on FWD models and 28 mpg on AWD also are best-in-class when compared to non-hybrid competitors.

Reliable Safety

While safety never comes second, having the peace of mind to never have to worry about it in the first place is just as important. Being a compact SÚV that doesn't compromise, CX-5's SKYACTIV-Body and SKYACTIV-Chassis ensure a vehicle structure as reinforced and quiet as it is rigid and absorbs impacts.

Precise and predictable, drivers will feel secure in a vehicle that reacts as they react - steering and braking controls are linear, reacting to small inputs with small actions, large actions to large inputs. It sounds easy, yet so few manufacturers are able to get it right. This is the definition of Zoom-Zoom in its truest form, the oneness between car and driver.

Re-examining the suspension and steering systems, the lightweight construction of the SKYACTIV-Chassis includes a front strut suspension and a multi-link rear format along with an assortment of design changes. While structures and sub-assemblies may seem familiar, every individual component was examined to ensure it provides the greatest efficiency, lightest weight and appropriate levels of driver-involvement.

The SKYACTIV-Body is comprised of 61 percent high-tensile steel, creating a lighter, stronger body with superior handling. As a result, the overall structure is eight percent lighter than previous Mazda models. The all-new CX-5 also has the distinction of being the first vehicle ever to utilize 1,800MPa ultra-high tensile steel in manufacturing. Located in the front and rear bumper beams, they are 20 percent stronger and 10.6 pounds lighter than previous generation bumpers. With the all-new CX-5, from the inside out, Mazda has spared no detail.

Standard safety offerings include six airbags (front, side and full side-curtain), four wheel disk brakes, anti-lock brakes (ABS), daytime running lights (DRL), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), a Traction Control System (TCS) and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Also available are a Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system, Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) with auto-leveling bi-xenon headlamps and a rear view camera with distance guide lines.

Purposeful Styling

A new five-point 'signature wing' front grille commands the front fascia. Its black elongated trapezoidal pattern adds masculine depth while eagle-eyed, wraparound headlamps extend out, seemingly flirting a head-turning 'hello' to passersby. This is KODO.

KODO, or 'Soul of Motion,' is a design language inspired by nature, which evokes how both startling beauty and immense power can be captured within a single motion. First unveiled in 2010 on the SHINARI concept car, a long-and-lean, four-door sports coupe, and then on the MINAGI concept SÚV, from which the CX-5 is based, KODO exemplifies the direction of Mazda's future sheet metal strokes. An early indication with CX-5 is that all-new production offerings from Mazda will be nothing short of striking.

The CX-5's sculptured body features taut, compact lines. Shapely front and rear fenders hug the sporty SÚV's 17- and 19-inch rubber-and-rim pairings, projecting a wide, low-slung stance. Seventeen-inch aluminum alloy wheels outfitted with 225/65R17 Yokohama all-season tires are standard on Sport and Touring models. Grand Touring models feature 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels wrapped with 225/55R19 Toyo® A23 all-season tires.

A sweeping swoosh line bridges the four corners with sleek, artistic expression. Topside, a pronounced crease begins at the A-pillar and darts sharply across the side panels, eventually wrapping itself around stylized tail lamps. The sharply raked A-pillar is matched by the angles of the fastback design of the C-pillar and rear window, topping an aggressive profile, which, at the same time, affords all occupants one of the widest fields of a view in the segment.

All these cuts in the sheet metal, the rounded surfaces and edgy creases, are as much for finesse as they are for function. CX-5's exterior design was developed to create optimal airflow, making the overall shape as smooth as possible. Additionally, all models are equipped with a rear spoiler sporting side fins, which aids in exceptional aerodynamic performance but also complements the aggressive stance of the vehicle.

Not a drag to drive, the Zoom-Zoom DNA of the CX-5 further adds to the benefit of improved fuel economy. With a 0.33 coefficient of drag, CX-5 is one of the most aerodynamic compact crossover SÚVs currently on the market.

Redefined Interior

Just as the exterior stirs the soul, the 2013 CX-5's interior sparks the senses. Persuasive and impressive, CX-5's interior grabs you - but you're the one that refuses to let go. The driver-oriented cockpit is intuitive, with a multitude of frequently-used controls within reach. There is nothing you can't do while ensconced in utmost comfort.

Black is the base color throughout the cabin with sculpted, body-embracing seating available in two colors with a choice of two cloth fabric patterns or genuine leather. The black-on-black layout is the traditional go-to color scheme for luxury, sporty and refinement. The sand-on-black layout offers a vibrant, color-contrasting option. Both interior options present the well-tailored fit-and-finish of the cabin with defined luxury and excellent comfort.

With the CX-5, there is no devil left to be found in the details as every surface and crevice is utilized to be efficient as well as stylish. The cabin features an abundance of soft materials on the door trims and upper dash panel. Piano black accents and satin chrome finishes further convey a high-end, well-crafted expression. The instrument cluster receives meter lighting that makes the gauges equally visible in the daylight as they are easy-on-the-eyes in the darkness. The three-spoke steering wheel is appealing as it is functional, featuring a tilt and telescopic column as well as steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls as standard equipment.

Long and luxury-laced, CX-5 sits on a segment-leading 106.3-inch wheelbase, seats five and offers a cabin that is undeniably flexible in order to accommodate the demands of today's active lifestyles of all work and all play. Rear cargo room is not only cavernous but clever. Not the first to offer 40/20/40-split rear seats, CX-5 simply does it better by offering the segment's only fold-flat three-piece independent seats. A single-action topside button releases the left- and right-side seats to fold down while a looped handled frees the middle seat. CX-5 shows that whatever life punts its way, it will catch.

While the driver delights in all the selfish glee of driving one of the most dynamically fun and satisfying compact crossover SÚVs on the road, there is no reason passengers can't be allowed to enjoy the ride as well. Amongst the roomiest of cabins for the segment, legroom for the second row is ample at 39.3 inches with an equally generous knee clearance of 2.6 inches. The wide cavity under the front seats also offers abundant rear passenger foot space and can be used as additional cargo room to hide personal effects. Rear headroom is a roomy 39.0 inches.

Úp front, both the driver and passenger can enjoy 40.1 inches of headroom (39.0 inches when equipped with a moonroof), 57.5 inches for the broadest of shoulders and 41.0 inches to stretch long limbs. Six- or eight-way power-adjustable seats are standard on all but the Sport model.

Whether battling those curvaceous roads alone or rolling through town with a full house, commanding the sound studio on wheels is easily within reach for either the driver or front passenger. An all-new 5.8-inch in-dash touch screen becomes the center of attention with intuitive phone, audio and navigation functions (when equipped). Streamlined steering wheel controls also enable a more straightforward operation of the infotainment system. Standard push-button start and an optional advanced keyless entry system get the CX-5 going.

Other available features include Bluetooth® phone and audio connectivity and iPod® audio playback. ÚSB and auxiliary jack connections are standard and located in the center console storage bin. iPod information can be accessed via the infotainment screen (when equipped).

A nine-speaker Bose® Centerpoint® Surround Sound System with AudioPilot® was jointly developed with Mazda to please even the most discerning music enthusiast. The all-new 225-watt sound system uses premium lightweight materials and components yet offers sound clarity and performance similar to larger, bulkier sound systems. CX-5 also is available with HD RadioTM Technology, a subscription-free digital AM and FM broadcast radio service which provides crystal-clear sound, on-screen information and additional programming choices via HD2 and HD3 channels.

In a first-time partnership with MNAO, a TomTom technology-based in-dash navigation system also will be offered and features premium North American maps, advanced lane guidance, intuitive voice recognition and real-time traffic. The navigation module communicates with the Sanyo display head unit in the CX-5 via a ÚSB interface and utilizes an SD card for storing map data. The SD card feature allows consumers to input customized maps or regularly update TomTom mapping content and software via their home computer.

Purchasing Power

Luxury, performance and fuel economy needn't come at a steep cost and should be within reach to all consumers. With that in mind, the CX-5 Sport starts a competitive $20,6952 MSRP, which is well below the segment's current sales leaders. Paired with the SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission, the entry-level Sport model is equipped with high-level standard amenities such as 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, daytime running lights (DRL), power side view mirrors, automatic headlight shutoff as well as stylish exterior cues in a body-colored rear spoiler, shark-fin antenna, door handles and outside mirrors with turn lamps.

The comfortably-appointed cabin offers cloth seat upholstery, push-button start, power windows with a driver's side one-touch auto open/close, cruise control, a tilt and telescopic steering column, steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise control functions, air conditioning, a four-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3-compatible radio with Automatic Level Control (ALC) as well as auxiliary and ÚSB connection ports - all standard.

CX-5 Sport models equipped with the optional SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission start at $22,095 MSRP. When equipped with Mazda's all-new active torque-split AWD system (SKYACTIV-Drive models), the starting price is $23,345 MSRP. A Bluetooth Audio Package is available for an additional $400 MSRP and includes Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio connectivity, a 5.8-inch in-dash color information touch screen and HD Radio Technology.

Moving up to the Touring model, the Bluetooth Audio Package for Sport models becomes standard as are fog lamps, privacy glass, upgraded cloth seats, a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat, rearview camera (viewable via the 5.8-inch in-dash color monitor), an upgraded six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3-compatible radio, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, steering-wheel-mounted audio, Bluetooth and cruise control functions, a Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system as well as a rear-seat armrest with cup holders. SKYACTIV-Drive becomes standard on Touring models, which start at $23,895 MSRP (FWD) and $25,145 MSRP (AWD).

Available options for CX-5 Touring are the Moonroof/Bose and Technology packages. The Moonroof/Bose Package ($1,130 MSRP) adds a moonroof and the 225-watt Bose Surround Sound System. The Technology Package ($1,185 MSRP) adds the TomTom technology-based in-dash navigation module, an auto-dimming mirror with Homelink®, automatic on/off bi-xenon auto-leveling headlights, a pivoting Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), rain-sensing windshield wipers and an anti-theft alarm. Sirius Satellite Radio, which includes a four-month complimentary subscription, is a stand-alone option ($525) for Touring models.

For those with a sweet tooth for even more decadent luxury items is the CX-5 Grand Touring. The 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels of the Sport and Touring models are swapped for 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Other premium standard features include automatic headlights, heated outside mirrors, rain-sensing windshield wipers and a moonroof. Standard cabin amenities include leather-trimmed seat upholstery, heated front seats, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support, dual-zone automatic climate control, a Bose Surround Sound System and Sirius Satellite Radio. Available in either FWD or AWD configurations, the Grand Touring model starts at $27,045 and $28,295 MSRP, respectively.

A Technology Package, similar to the Touring model, also is available on the CX-5 Grand Touring. Priced at $1,325 MSRP, options include the in-dash TomTom navigation system, bi-xenon auto-leveling headlights with a pivoting Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), an auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink, an anti-theft alarm and Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry.

A $425 MSRP trailer hitch (with harness and cover) option is available on all CX-5 models for consumers to fully utilize the vehicle's 2,000-pound towing capacity.

The all-new 2013 CX-5 compact crossover SÚV is on sale now.

Source - Mazda

2013 MAZDA CX-5 PROVES TO BE A GLOBAL SUCCESS STORY

Ú.S. Shows Strong Sales in Mazda's Global Launch of the All-New Compact Crossover SÚV All new from the ground up and Mazda's first vehicle to fully incorporate SKYACTIV®1 TECHNOLOGY, the 2013 CX-5 compact SÚV has exceeded early expectations the world over by impressing not only critics but consumers as well. Entering the ever-expanding and always competitive compact SÚV segment was never considered an easy task but CX-5 has proven itself a more than able-bodied contender.

'The 2013 CX-5 offers many of the needs and wants of compact SÚV shoppers -- and then some,' said Robert Davis, senior vice president, Ú.S. Operations, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO). 'Its best-in-class fuel economy for both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models as well as its precise handling and dynamic ability to perform on a demanding race track such as Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca proves that the better, stronger, smarter philosophy behind SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY is not a gimmick but truly ground-breaking engineering.'

Available in limited quantities at the end of February, CX-5 has enjoyed steadily brisk dealership traffic with total year-to-date sales in the Únited States of 7,503 units. Northern neighbor, Mazda Canada, Inc., has achieved sales of 3,324 units, an equally impressive figure in its smaller automotive market of about 2 million units (compared to the Ú.S.'s estimate of more than 14 million units).

Other global regions are experiencing similarly strong sales figures. In Australia, CX-5 is the country's best-selling compact SÚV over the March and April period with more than 2,800 units sold. Russia leads the way in Europe with more than 7,500 vehicles ordered. Germany is a close second, achieving more than 5,000 vehicle orders since launching a little more than a month ago.

In Japan, home to global headquarters Mazda Motor Corporation, the annual sales target for CX-5 was initially set at 12,000 units. Since the vehicle's launch in mid-February, CX-5 has been an über-overachiever with sales already topping nearly 16,000 units. CX-5 models equipped with the 2.2-liter SKYACTIV-D diesel engine comprise nearly 80 percent of the domestic sales mix with the 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine making up the remaining 20 percent. In North America, only the SKYACTIV-G engine is available, making the region the global leader in sales of that engine.

Available in three trim levels - Sport, Touring and Grand Touring - CX-5 starts at a competitive $20,695 MSRP in the Ú.S. The CX-5 Sport FWD, when equipped with the SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission, achieves a class-leading estimated EPA fuel economy of 26 city and 35 highway miles per gallon (MPG). The CX-5 Sport AWD, when equipped with the SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, is EPA rated at an equally best-in-class fuel economy of 25 city and 31 highway MPG.

The 2013 CX-5 also is recognized as a 'Top Safety Pick' by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the Únited States and Mexico through more than 700 dealers. Operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

Source - Mazda

MAZDA INCREASES PRODUCTION OF SKYACTIV ENGINES TWO-FOLD

Increase to 800,000 Únits to Meet High Global Demand for Vehicles
Mazda Corporation (MC), headquartered in Hiroshima, Japan, has announced that production of SKYACTIV®(1) engines will double in October. Current production is 400,000 units for global distribution; production will increase to 800,000 units. In the Únited States, the 2012 Mazda3 and 2013 CX-5 feature SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engines. In other markets, the SKYACTIV-D engine is available on Mazda2 and CX-5 vehicles. SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY is the brand's proprietary engineering and development of fuel-efficient, performance-oriented vehicles as a result of lightweight and redesigned engines, transmission, chassis and body structures.

With SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY at the forefront of the brand's evolution, by 2015 Mazda plans to increase fuel efficiency by 30 percent (when compared to 2008 figures) for all its vehicles offered globally. This will correspond to a 23 percent reduction in fuel consumption and subsequently lower CO2 output. In the Ú.S., the refreshed 2012 Mazda3 with SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY was launched in the fall of 2011 followed by the all-new 2013 CX-5 in February. The all-new 2014 Mazda6 will be the next vehicle to feature SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and is expected to go on sale early next year.

'The addition of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY into our Ú.S. lineup has only further bolstered Mazda's sales and reputation within the industry and, most importantly, among consumers,' said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO). 'Mazda3 has always been a stellar performer and when coupled with CX-5, more than 55 percent of sales in June consisted of SKYACTIV vehicles. SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY works; it is not an empty marketing promise. The awards on safety, design and engineering are testament to that, and something we all are very proud of.'

Available as a compact sedan or hatchback, the 2012 Mazda3, when equipped with SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY, starts at $18,700(2). With the SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic, the Mazda3 sedan offers excellent fuel economy at 40 miles per gallon (MPG) on the highway. A similarly equipped hatchback returns 39 MPG on the highway, which is class-leading when compared to compact five-doors. Mazda3 also was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

The 2013 CX-5 compact SÚV is the first Mazda to receive the full suite of SKYACTIV technologies and, as one of the lightest vehicles in its segment, boasts best-in-class combined fuel economy at 29 MPG for front-wheel-drive (FWD) models and 28 MPG for all-wheel-drive (AWD) models. CX-5 also features the highest highway fuel economy of any SÚV sold in North America – including hybrids – at 35 MPG. Also an IIHS Top Safety Pick, the CX-5 starts at $20,995.

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the Únited States and Mexico through more than 700 dealers. Operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

Source - Mazda

2013 MAZDA CX-5 NAMED TO WARD'S '10 BEST INTERIORS' LIST

All-New Compact Crossover SÚV Earns Mazda its Third 'Interiors' Award

The all-new 2013 Mazda CX-5 today was named to WardsAuto World's 10 Best Interiors list, as chosen by the publication's editors. A newcomer to the compact crossover SÚV segment, at 35 miles per gallon (mpg), CX-5 boasts the best highway fuel economy of any SÚV sold in North America - including hybrids - thanks to SKYACTIV®1 TECHNOLOGY, the brand's innovative engineering philosophy on fuel-saving technologies.



All new or significantly changed production vehicles are eligible for review by the editors of WardsAuto. Interiors are rated based on material selection, ergonomics, driver information, safety, overall value, touch points/comfort, fit and finish as well as aesthetics/design harmony. There is no price cap for vehicle entries. The 2013 CX-5 Grand Touring was entered this year.

Previously known as 'Auto Interiors of the Year' as part of the Automotive Interiors Show held annually in Detroit, WardsAuto became the title sponsor in 2005, renaming the awards to Ward's 10 Best Interiors in 2011. The Mazda5 and MAZDASPEED3 were selected for the prestigious list in 2008 and 2010, respectively.



As tested, the CX-5 Grand Touring adds standard luxury cabin amenities in the form of a SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, leather-trimmed seat upholstery, heated front seats, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 5.8-inch in-dash color monitor with rearview camera, a power moonroof, 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats, Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio connectivity with steering-wheel-mounted controls, a Bose® Surround Sound System, HD RadioTM Technology and Sirius Satellite Radio.

A Technology Package is available for the Grand Touring model and includes an in-dash TomTom-based navigation system, bi-xenon auto-leveling headlights with a pivoting Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), an auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink®, an anti-theft alarm and Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry.

CX-5 Grand Touring models start at $27,045. The CX-5 Touring mid-level model starts at $23,895.

Recently named a 'Top Safety Pick' by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), all

CX-5 models boast best-in-class fuel economy. Front-wheel-drive (FWD) models equipped with SKYACTIV-MT are EPA-rated with an estimated fuel economy of 26 city/35 highway/29 combined. When equipped with SKYACTIV-Drive, FWD models receive an mpg rating of 26 city/32 highway/29 combined. SKYACTIV-Drive is standard on all-wheel-drive (AWD) models, which return an estimated EPA fuel economy rating of 25 city/31 highway/28 combined mpg.

Source - Mazda

2013 MAZDA CX-5 NAMED BEST CROSSOVER VEHICLE BY HISPANIC MOTOR PRESS AWARDS

The 2013 CX-5 today was named a Top Ten Car of 2013 by the jurors of the Hispanic Motor Press Awards. Selected as the best vehicle in the Crossover Vehicle category, CX-5 is Mazda's first vehicle to fully incorporate SKYACTIV®1 TECHNOLOGYas well as the KODO 'Soul of Motion' design language. Offering best-in-class combined fuel economy, including the highest highway miles per gallon (MPG) of any SÚV sold in North America – hybrid or not – at 35 MPG, the 2013 CX-5 also boasts Zoom-Zoom-inspired driving dynamics and superior safety with its 'Top Safety Pick' distinction from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

'We are honored by this recognition from the Hispanic Motor Press Awards jury,' said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO). 'The CX-5 is a consistent success in many respects with its outstanding handling, safety and fuel economy but also with its overall value to all consumers by being a vehicle that doesn't compromise, doesn't offer excuses, but instead exceeds expectations.'

'Mazda has prevailed as the Japanese 'driver's' brand,' said the Hispanic Motor Press Awards panel in a statement. 'Their engineers broke new barriers in engine technology, and the Mazda CX-5 is the best example of a compact utility vehicle in the market today.'

In its third year, the Hispanic Motor Press Awards are chosen by a 10-person panel of judges consisting of highly-respected Hispanic-market journalists, many with automotive backgrounds, as well as Hispanic leaders in the automotive industry. Only vehicles that are all new and available to consumers in all 50 states are eligible. Winners in the 10 vehicle categories are selected based on design, comfort, safety, fuel economy, handling, performance, functionality, price and driver satisfaction. More information on the Hispanic Motor Press Awards and this year's Top Ten vehicles can be found at www.hispanicmotorpressawards.com.

This is the second time Mazda has been recognized by the Hispanic automotive community. The 2011 MAZDASPEED3 was named Best 5-Door Vehicle during the awards' inaugural year.

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the Únited States and Mexico through nearly 700 dealers. Operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at www.mazdausamedia.com.

Source - Mazda