Mazda at the Singapore Motorshow 2017 – Showcasing the highly-anticipated all-new Mazda MX-5 RF & CX-9

SINGAPORE, 12 Jan 2017 – Mazda trailblazed two new models and kicked off the 2017 Singapore Motorshow with much fanfare. The highly-anticipated MX-5 Retractable Fastback (RF) and the All-New Mazda CX-9 were both on preview to guests, members of the media, and the public. The MX-5 RF is the latest milestone for Mazda, bringing the long-awaited Power Retractable Hardtop to this version of the award-winning roadster. The Mazda CX-9 has undergone a re-imagining which has modernised Mazda’s largest full 7-seater luxury SUV. The All-New Mazda CX-9 strikes a deft balance between sophisticated design with everyday practicality for today’s go-getters.

Also on display were the recently introduced 2017 Edition of the Mazda 6, and the 2017 Edition of the Mazda 3, which made its official debut at this Motorshow. The 2017 Editions of both the Mazda 6 and Mazda 3 are the first models to feature Mazda’s latest G-Vectoring Control (GVC) stabilization technology, designed to control and minimize the impact of G-force and inertia for the driver and passengers, thus imparting a smoother driving experience and more comfortable ride.

Mazda’s Brand Ambassadors, Jesseca Liu and Pierre Png also made a glittering appearance during the press event. The two artistes will be making another appearance on Saturday, 14 January 2017, from 12pm to 1pm, for a meet and greet session with fans and car enthusiasts. The first 40 fans who register on site that day will be rewarded with the opportunity to get up close and personal with the two brand ambassadors in an exclusive private session, and enjoy some light refreshments at the Mazda stand.

Ms. Ong Lay Ling, Group Managing Director of Eurokars Group, had this to say about Mazda’s latest offerings: “These new models embody the best-in-class and innovative technological advances that have become synonymous with Mazda vehicles. Mazda’s revolutionary and signature SkyActiv Technology evolved from its forward-thinking vision and continual push for outstanding fuel economy, excellent environmental and safety performance, coupled with sheer driving pleasure. Mazda tirelessly produces and offers new models that anticipate car owners’ needs and aspirations, and are developed based on its human-centric design philosophy while incorporating cutting-edge technology and sophisticated engineering. It’s no wonder that Mazda is fast gaining traction and popularity among both automotive aficionados and collectors, as well as new converts,” said Ms. Ong.

She added, “Eurokars Group has made significant headway with Mazda since it added the leading Japanese automotive brand to its stable of luxury and premium automobiles. Mazda continues to chalk up impressive performance across many indicators. Sale of Mazda vehicles in 2016 grew by 34 per cent from the previous year. Mazda has achieved accelerated growth in recent years and will continue to post positive growth. In October last year, we made the announcement that PT Eurokars Motor Indonesia, a member of Eurokars Group, had been appointed by Mazda Motor Corporation as the distributor of Mazda vehicles in Indonesia. This appointment represents a key milestone and reflects the synergistic partnership between Mazda Motor Corporation and Eurokars Group,” added Ms. Ong.

Mr. Christer Ekberg, Chief Operating Officer of Eurokars Group, addressed the press as well.

“The addition and design of the retractable fastback to the range will definitely excite prospective MX-5 buyers. It drives like a roadster, with the comfort of a coupe,” he said. “Engendering a comfortable driving environment that enables a driver to intuitively and accurately feel his or her car’s response and smoothly operate the vehicle is fundamental to Mazda’s “Jinba-ittai” – oneness between man and car. Mazda pursues and perfects these principles in its latest models – the CX-9, the Luxury SUV, and the stylish and exhilarating MX-5 RF,” Mr. Ekberg added.

The Deputy Program Manager of Mazda Motor Corporation, Mr. Hitoshi Takamatsu, also graced the event. Mr. Takamatsu first joined Mazda in 1983 as a member of the Testing and Research Division Two where he worked on automated operation for testing equipment and system development. While in the division, he was involved in the testing and research of brakes for front-engine, rear-wheel-drive vehicles such as the Mazda RX-7 and MX-5.

In 1998, Mr. Takamatsu was promoted to the position of Staff Manager of the Chassis Testing and Research Department, and in 2000, he was promoted again to be the Manager of the department. In 2007, he became the Deputy Program Manager of Vehicle Development where he worked on a wide range of projects including the Mazda RX-8, MX-5 and BT-50 Ranger. From 2011 until now, Mr. Takamatsu has focused his efforts on the current fourth Generation of MX-5’s development, the MX-5 RF being the latest product of his hard work.

Mazda MX-5 RF

First debuted at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) in April 2016, the MX-5 RF turned heads and impressed the world with its creative design, adding to the long legacy of the Mazda MX-5. The MX-5 clinched both the 2016 World Car of the Year (WCOTY) & 2016 World Car Design of the Year (WCDOTY) Award, a world’s first for any one car in the history of the NYIAS.

In line with all the Mazda philosophies of design, safety, fuel efficiency and driving experience, the MX-5 RF boasts the latest Mazda has to offer in KODO Design, i-Activsense Safety Technologies, SkyActiv Technology and the “Jinba-ittai” philosophy. While the soft top MX-5 already followed the design principles of the KODO: Soul of Motion design language, the addition of the powered retractable hardtop was innovative in its engineering and immaculately designed. The MX-5 RF provides drivers with the option to experience the freedom and fun of a convertible or the relaxed and quiet comfort that a coupe affords, at a touch of a button.

Under the i-Activesense umbrella of safety tecnohologies, the MX-5 RF possesses features such as Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) and a High Beam Control (HBC) system that helps the driver make safe, informed choices to avoid dangerous situations on the road. The engineers at Mazda also smartly designed their airbag system so as to not compromise safety, even when the top is down. In event of a collision, side airbags deploy with a head-protecting cell to safeguard occupants’ heads from injury.

At a glance, the MX-5 RF possesses a fuel efficient SkyActiv 2.0L 4 cyclinder petrol engine, 118kW of power at 6000rpm, 200Nm of torque at 4600rpm and 6.4L/100km fuel capacity with a choice of 6 speed manual or automatic transmission. The roof adds roughly 45kg worth of weight to the MX-5 over the soft top. Stiffer suspension is used to to balance the weight distribution of the MX-5 RF without sacrificing the driving experience. SkyActiv Technology further boost the MX-5 RF’s efficiency with its i-Stop idling system and i-Eloop regenerative braking technologies to help manage fuel economy and minimize energy wastage.

The MX-5 RF is available for sale from $175,800 (Automatic) and $172,800 (Manual).

Mazda CX-9*

The All-New Mazda CX-9 cuts a handsome figure. The perfect balance of stunning sophistication and practicality, re-imagined from the ground up, the CX-9 delivers class-leading performance with real-world efficiency in one luxurious package. The Mazda CX-9 exudes luxury with a host of premium features such as supple genuine leather and aluminium interior trim and finishing that is sleek looking and soft to the touch.

The CX-9 is also fully equipped to handle the entertainment demands of modern families, offering the latest in connectivity and infotainment. All passengers will be immersed in the exceptional sound quality of Bose® audio. The 12-speaker system is integrated seamlessly throughout the All-New Mazda CX-9’s posh interior. Passengers can enjoy their music, radio and podcasts from sources such as Pandora® or access their favourite audio web content when connected to a smartphone. 4 USB ports are distributed throughout the cabin to accomodate all devices.

The All-New Mazda CX-9 features the MZD Connect infotainment system with optional 8-inch full colour touchscreen display. While the MZD Connect system has been showcased before, the All-New Mazda CX-9 is enhanced by the Active Driving Display, a full-colour heads-up display projected onto the lower windshield for readouts from the navigation, cruise control and other functions. The Active Driving Display is cleverly positioned in the driver’s line of sight for a less distracted drive.

Finer details were not overlooked; the cabin interior showcases many thoughtful touches that passengers will enjoy. Accent lighting illuminates areas like the front door handles, highlighting the practical features in any low-light environment. Passengers in the second row can also shield themselves from the hot sun with retractable sunshades at the windows, a useful feature in sunny Singapore.

The vehicle was designed to maximise the safety of every single passenger on board. The All-New Mazda CX-9 comes equipped with a whole suite of i-Activsense safety technologies with features such as Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Depature Warning System & Smart Brake Support for true driving confidence.

With all the safety features built in, Mazda did not forget one of its core principles that driving must, ultimately, be “fun“. For the first time in the history of Mazda, the CX-9 features a breakthrough SkyActiv 2.5L turbocharged petrol engine. The engine delivers an athletic driving experience, making the car feel agile, responsive and “light on its feet“ despite its size.

Thanks to its turbocharged engine, the All-New Mazda CX-9 possesses 170kW of power at 5000rpm, 420Nm of torque at 2000rpm and a fuel consumption of 8.4L/100km. All in all, the CX-9 effortlessly accommodates the demands of the modern driver, striking that balance in its capabilities and offerings to afford as much adaptability as possible to the driver’s driving style and lifestyle needs.

* The Mazda CX-9 on display is for preview purposes only and based on Australian specifications. Local specifications of the model to be available only in Q3/Q4 2017.