Wednesday, December 18, 2013

MAZDA NAMED THE MOST FUEL-EFFICIENT AUTO MANUFACTURER IN EPA REPORT

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) noted in their most recent Light Duty Fuel Economy Trends report that Mazda Motor Corporation is the most fuel-efficient auto manufacturer in the U.S. With the highest fleet-wide adjusted fuel economy performance of 27.1 miles per gallon (MPG), and the lowest CO2 emissions of 328, Mazda led the chart for model year (MY) 2012. 


While still retaining the fun-to-drive characteristics for which Mazda is known, the company had the second largest increase (2.1 MPG) in the report over their MY 2011 MPG (25.0). Mazda has achieved the highest fuel efficiency of any other mainstream automotive manufacturer in the industry, without offering a hybrid or electric vehicle. Mazda's unique SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY has made this level of efficiency possible. SKYACTIV is a suite of component and engineering technologies that incorporate ultra-high compression ratio gasoline engines, super-efficient manual and automatic transmissions, lightweight chassis and body components, reduced rolling resistance and low-drag body styling.

"Mazda has long had a history of doing things differently, and SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY is no exception," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations. "While other manufacturers have turned their attention to hybrids and electric cars, we chose to focus on perfecting the base technology used in more than 90 percent of the cars and SUVs sold today: the internal combustion engine. Through analyzing and refining this technology, as well as every other component in a modern automobile, Mazda has been able to achieve class-leading fuel economy in nearly every segment it competes in, and bring that technology – at an affordable price – to every customer."

Mazda's SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY brought the company to the forefront of fuel efficiency through such vehicles as the all-new 2014 Mazda3, the 2014 Mazda6, and the 2014 CX-5. Mazda3 reaches near best-in-class fuel economy with 41 highway MPG when equipped with the i-ELOOP energy regeneration system. Mazda6 equipped with i-ELOOP achieves class- leading fuel economy with 40 highway MPG. At 35 MPG, CX-5 still retains the title of the highest highway MPG of any SUV in North America, including hybrids.

Come test drive a Mazda today at Liberty Mazda and be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for further news and updates.

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Mazda Partners with Four National Charities to Help Provide for Those in Need

Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) is collaborating with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital®, American Red Cross, American Heart Association, and Mazda Foundation for its all-new charitable giving campaign set to run throughout the 2013 holiday season.  For every new Mazda sold during the Mazda Drive for Good campaign, Mazda will donate $100 to one of these four national charities as, selected by the new Mazda owner.  Additionally, and uniquely Mazda, for every vehicle test-drive during the Mazda Drive for Good campaign, Mazda will donate one hour of charitable service from its employees and dealers across the nation, to begin in the 2014 calendar year.

"Mazda and its dealers have always had a history of charitable giving and it is time that we include our customers in doing good things for those in need," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO.  "In typical Mazda fashion, it isn't just about writing a check. That is why we wanted to go the extra mile and donate an hour of charitable service for every test drive. Mazda, its employees, and dealers want to give not only their money, but also time, attention, and hard work to help others."
The Mazda Drive for Good event will run from November 25, 2013 through January 2, 2014. In addition to the four national charity organizations, Mazda Dealer Marketing Groups around the nation also have the opportunity to select a fifth local charity that enables new Mazda owners to select a charity option closer to home.

In Connecticut, our local charity option is the Where Angels Play Foundation.

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital®:
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other deadly diseases. St. Jude has the world's best survival rates for the most aggressive childhood cancers, and treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20 percent to 80 percent since we opened more than 50 years ago. St. Jude is working to drive the overall survival rate for childhood cancer to 90 percent in the next decade. St. Jude freely shares the breakthroughs we make, and every child saved at St. Jude means doctors and scientists worldwide can use that knowledge to save thousands more children. Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing and food – because all a family should worry about is helping their child live. Join the St. Jude mission by visiting stjude.org or following St. Jude on facebook.com/stjude and twitter.com/stjude.


American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.


American Heart Association:
The American Heart Association is devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke – America's No. 1 and No. 4 killers. We team with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies, and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat these diseases. The Dallas-based association is the nation's oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-800-AHA-USA1, visit www.heart.org or call any of our offices around the country.


Mazda Foundation:
Acting on a strong sense of responsibility to give something back to the communities in which it operates, Mazda established a philanthropic foundation. As the corporate foundation of Mazda North American Operations, it has awarded over $8 million to worthwhile causes across the United States since its initial grants in 1992.


Come test drive a new Mazda at Liberty Mazda and help us give back. Be sure to check us out on Facebook and Twitter for further news and updates.

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

All-New Mazda3 Named 'Best Compact Car' By Yahoo! Autos


The completely redesigned 2014 Mazda3 has been named the "Best Compact Car" for 2014, according to Yahoo! Autos.  From art pad to assembly line, this third-generation Mazda3 is all new and features the full suite of SKYACTIV® technologies and fluid styling of the KODO "Soul of Motion" design language.  This 2014 model also receives all-new game-changing technology with the full suite of active-safety pre-crash detection systems of i-ACTIVSENSE, which includes class exclusives Mazda Radar Cruise Control and Smart City Brake Support, the next-generation in-vehicle connectivity of MAZDA CONNECT™, which features an innovative Active Driving Display, and the capacitor-based regenerative engine braking i-ELOOP system.

"Our best-selling vehicle worldwide continues to win over the critics, impressing not only with its expected dynamics and performance but also with its top notch fuel economy, all-new technologies and excellent value," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations.  "The Mazda3 has always been competitive within its segment and will continue to bring its best to the table with the all-new 2014 model."

The Yahoo! Autos' testing methodology rates vehicles based on interior design, exterior styling, power delivery, ride, handling, fuel efficiency and value.  Editors also kept in mind how readers might approach these vehicles if their hard-earned money were at stake.  In its second year, this is the first time category winners have been announced.

"Even during Silicon Valley rush hour, the five-door Mazda3 continuously made us smile," said Yahoo! Autos.  "It's plenty peppy, handles brilliantly for a front-wheel drive hatchback and sports an engaging, well-executed manual transmission.  Boasting 33 [combined] mpg, and a price tag starting around $17,000, there really is a Mazda3 for everyone."

Starting at $16,945 MSRP for four-door models and $18,945 MSRP for the five-door, the 2014 Mazda3 is available with two engine choices and two transmissions.  The SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine produces 155 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 150 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm, and can be paired with either the SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual or SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic.  Offering one of the best fuel economy numbers in its class, four-door models achieve an EPA-estimated 41 highway mpg while five-doors are rated at 40 highway mpg, regardless of transmission choice.

The larger SKYACTIV-G 2.5L engine boasts 184 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 185 lb-ft of torque at 3,250 rpm and currently is only available with the automatic transmission.  However, the six-speed manual has been confirmed to be added as a transmission selection at a later date.   Four-door models equipped with the 2.5L are EPA-estimated at 39 highway mpg while five-doors are EPA-rated at up to 38 highway mpg (with i-ELOOP).

Come test drive the Mazda3 at Liberty Mazda and don't forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for more news and updates.

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

All-New Mazda3 Receives 2014 ALG 'Residual Value Award'

The all-new 2014 Mazda3 was today awarded a 2014 Residual Value Award for the Compact Car Segment by ALG, the industry benchmark for residual values and depreciation data.  The Mazda brand held steady with its overall industry ranking by again placing fifth among all brands for predicted resale value.

"We are honored to be recognized by ALG with a distinction that speaks volumes not only to the quality, dependability, reliability and value of the 2014 Mazda3 but also to the overall strength of the Mazda brand," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO).  "With a slew of new products in the pipeline to follow the success of our all-new SKYACTIV offerings the Mazda3, Mazda6 and CX-5, we're excited for what the future holds."

The annual ALG Residual Value Awards recognize automakers' outstanding achievements for vehicles that are predicted to retain the highest percentage of their original price after a conventional three-year period.  Awards are given in 24 vehicle categories and also for the two brands with the highest overall predicted residual values among all mainstream and all premium vehicles.  This year's awards are based on 2014 model year vehicles.

"The Mazda3's combination of style, technology, fuel economy and fun-to-drive attitude makes it one of the most complete vehicles in the segment," said Eric Lyman, Vice President of Editorial, ALG.  "With modest price increases, it's poised to have the level of success that gave the first generation such incredible retention."

Award winners are determined through careful study of the competition in each segment, historical vehicle performance and industry trends.  Vehicle quality, production levels relative to demand as well as pricing and marketing strategies present key factors that impact ALG's residual value forecast.

Previous ALG Residual Value Awards winners for Mazda were the 2012 Mazdaspeed3 (Sporty Car), 2011 CX-9 (Mid-Size Utility) and 2010 Mazda3 (Compact Car).

On sale since September, the 2014 Mazda3 starts at $16,945[2] MSRP and is offered with two engine choices, two transmissions, two body styles (four- and five-door) and a cornucopia of features and options not expected of the compact car segment, which will keep consumers (and their pocketbooks) happily impressed. 

Completely redesigned, the 2014 Mazda3 features the full suite SKYACTIV technologies – an umbrella term for Mazda's proprietary engineering of performance-oriented, fuel-saving engine, transmission, body and chassis components.  The brand's best-selling vehicle worldwide with more than 3.5 million units sold, this third-generation model continues to defy convention with an EPA-rated 41 MPG, one of the best in the segment, as well as all-new technology with i-ACTIVSENSE safety-oriented segment-first features, the energy-conserving regenerative engine braking i-ELOOP and a savvy HMI/infotainment MAZDA CONNECT™ system.

The standard engine on i-designated trims (SV, Sport, Touring and Grand Touring) is the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine, which produces 155 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 150 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.  For s-designated trims, the larger SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter gasoline engine will be standard equipment and boasts 184 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 185 lb-ft of torque at 3,250 rpm.

Fuel economy for all four-door models featuring the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter engine is rated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at 29 city/41 highway/33 combined mpg (6MT) and 30 city/41 highway/34 combined mpg (6AT).  Five-door models are EPA-rated at 29 city/40 highway/33 combined mpg with a manual transmission and 30 city/40 highway/33 combined mpg when equipped with an automatic. 

The SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter gasoline engine is reserved for s models, which are available only in Touring and Grand Touring trims.  At launch, the SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission will be the only transmission available, but the SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual is confirmed to be offered at a later date. 

EPA-estimated fuel economy for the s sedans is 28 city/39 highway/32 combined mpg.  Five-doors are estimated to achieve 27 city/37 highway/31 combined mpg, or 28 city/38 highway/32 combined mpg with i-ELOOP.  All i and s Mazda3 vehicles deliver their fuel economies equipped with standard temporary spare tire.  

Come test drive a Mazda3 today at Liberty Mazda and don't forget to check us out on Facebook and Twitter for further news and updates.

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Mazda6 Receives Car of the Year from Popular Mechanics

The completely redesigned 2014 Mazda6 mid-size sedan was today named "Car of the Year" by Popular Mechanics, an award-winning special interest magazine covering the best of today's technologies and beyond.  Combined with SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY – the umbrella term for a host of performance-oriented, fuel-saving engine, transmission, body and chassis components – this third-generation Mazda6 features even more all-new groundbreaking Mazda-engineered technology.

"To be named 'Car of the Year' by a publication as esteemed as Popular Mechanics is as flattering as it is humbling," said Jim O'Sullivan, president & CEO, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO).  "And the continued success of the 2014 Mazda6 is a testament to the brand's 'clean slate' approach, where everyone from every team – R&D and design to strategy and marketing – rolled up their proverbial sleeves to answer the question 'If we could start all over, what can we do better?' We believe in 'One Team, One Mazda' and it is a proud honor to share this accolade with the entire global Mazda family."

After a year of test driving the latest automotive offerings, PM's automotive editors and contributors judged vehicles and selected the Car of the Year for its overall excellence and their top 10 choices by segment.  The Car of the Year is the vehicle that best exemplifies qualities that are most important to Popular Mechanics readers: affordability, utility, fuel efficiency, performance, innovation and bold design.  The SKYACTIV family of engines garnered an Automotive Excellence Award last year in the "Technical Innovation" bonus category. 

"At Popular Mechanics, we love it when bold engineering and great design come together," said Jim Meigs, editor-in-chief, Popular Mechanics. "The Mazda6 really impressed us with how well it delivers so many things modern car owners want: great mileage, fun road-handling, upscale features and looks – and remarkable value."

From the global debut of the capacitor-based regenerative engine braking system i-ELOOP to the North American introductions of the front collision-detecting Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) system and SKYACTIV-D 2.2-liter clean diesel engine, the 2014 Mazda6 has been the dynamic brand ambassador to shake up the mid-size segment stasis by turning its stifled amps to 11.  By offering unmatched driving capability, excellent performance, striking design, exceptional safety and best-in-class highway fuel economy (40 MPG), this four-door family sedan thrives on surpassing expectations.

Available in three trim levels – Sport, Touring and Grand Touring – all Mazda6 vehicles are currently fitted with a SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter gasoline engine, which can be paired with a choice of transmissions: the SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual or SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic.  Featuring the lean, muscular character lines of the KODO "Soul of Motion" design language, the 2014 Mazda6 touts 184 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 185 lb-ft of torque at 3,250 rpm. 

Shapely and sophisticated, Mazda6 also offers a best-in-class coefficient of drag as low as 0.26 (Grand Touring only) as well as an impressive EPA-rated fuel efficiency of 25 city/37 highway/29 combined MPG when equipped with the standard manual transmission.  Automatic-equipped vehicles see fuel economy increased to an EPA-estimate rating of 26 city/38 highway/30 combined.  When coupled with i-ELOOP, which is part of the Technology Package (Grand Touring only), fuel economy is a best-in-class EPA rating of 28 city/40 highway/32 combined MPG.

The SKYACTIV-D 2.2L engine is expected to go on sale in North America in late spring of 2014.  Final specifications and packaging information of the diesel engine and trim combinations will be announced closer to its on-sale date.

Named a 2013 Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the all-new i-ACTIVSENSE suite of safety technologies utilizes sensing devices such as milliwave radars and cameras to support the driver in recognizing hazards, avoiding collisions and minimizing damage, should accidents occur.  While these systems will not eliminate accidents, their intent is to minimize them and reduce the severity of a crash.  Safety features vary by trim level. 

Standard safety features for all 2014 Mazda6 models include six airbags (front, side and full side-curtain), whiplash-reducing front headrests, power-assisted ventilated front and solid rear disc brakes, anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist, daytime running lights, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), a Traction Control System (TCS), hill launch assist, a fold-away brake pedal assembly, a trunk entrapment release system, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), three-point safety belts for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters as well as Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH).

Touring models feature a Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) as standard equipment with the Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) system available as part of an optional package. Grand Touring models feature BSM, RCTA, SCBS and an Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) as standard equipment. Forward Obstruction Warning (FOW), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) and High Beam Control (HBC) are available as part of an optional package.

On sale nationwide, the 2014 Mazda6 starts at $20,9902 MSRP. Come test drive a Mazda6 today at Liberty Mazda and don't forget to check us out on Facebook and Twitter for further news and updates.

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

$22 Wiper Blade Special Coupon!

Get ready for winter with new wiper blades and installation for only $22!

Here's how to get to the coupon:






Just hit the button that says Offers!

Come on in to Liberty Mazda to redeem your coupon, and be sure to stay up to date on our Facebook and Twitter!

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Mazda Concepts Blend Heritage with Contemporary, Couture Designs at 2013 SEMA Show

Motorsports and Mazda are so synonymous one seemingly cannot live without the other, less yin-and-yang and more peas-and-carrots.  And while the brand may never disconnect from its Zoom-Zoom roots (nor want to), competitive aggression on the race track need not translate into gritty, abrasive design.  There can be finesse in fire, beauty in brawn.  This was the inspiration behind the latest concepts from Mazda North American Operations' (MNAO) Irvine, Calif.-based design team.  The four vehicles made their official debuts today at the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show.  All-new 2014 Mazda3 and Mazda6 vehicles were utilized to showcase distinctively fresh designs paying homage to the brand's racing heritage and awakened design direction.

"It's no secret Mazda is going through a design evolution," said Derek Jenkins, design director, MNAO.  "With bolder lines and stronger character features stemming from the 'KODO – Soul of Motion' design language, Mazda's inherent driving dynamics are becoming more and more visually clear.  Instead of only being a behind-the-wheel experience, the Zoom-Zoom genetic code is further being embraced, not buried, through increasingly expressive vehicle design."


Club Sport Concepts
Both a Mazda3 and Mazda6 were given "Club Sport" treatments, a motorsports-inspired motif of neutral grays, blacks and reds represented in not-so-subtle angular lines reminiscent of a car speeding past your line of sight.  Featuring a Mazda Design-exclusive Composite Grey finish and Brilliant Black rooftop, the Club Sport 6 Concept is outfitted with a 14.0:1 low-compression SKYACTIV-D 2.2-liter clean diesel engine.  Although this vehicle features a European-specification engine with an output of 129 kW at 4,500 rpm and 420 nM of torque at 2,000 rpm, the North American clean diesel will be available in late spring of next year.  The SKYACTIV-D 2.2L engine was most recently seen on U.S. shores during the final season of the GRAND-AM Rolex GX Series, where the rookie Mazda6 took the checkered flag nine straight times and finished the year with manufacturers and rookie-of-the-year driver's championship honors. 

 
The exterior surface is painted with custom Club Sport graphics, featuring varying line frequency and width to create a sense of movement.  A Mazda Design custom accessory aero kit was installed, which features front, rear and side diffusers as well as a rear spoiler – all in a contrasting Brilliant Black gloss.  The Club Sport 6 sits on Rays 57 Motorsport G07FXX 20-inch Black and Machining-colored 10-spoke wheels wrapped in sticky Yokohama S.drive® 245/35R20 tires.  Suspension is courtesy of an H&R spring kit while custom Brembo two-piece, six-piston 380x32 drilled brake rotors and a Racing Beat exhaust add the final sporty touches.

The Club Sport 3 Concept features many similarities with its Mazda6 big brother but with a few extra robust features.  With a Mazda Design-exclusive Slate White exterior finish, this five-door is furnished with a more ambitious Club Sport paint scheme.  Metallic Silver lines trace along the arches of the wheels, the base of the side skirts and the contours of the doors and C-pillars.  Glossy Light Gray and matte Black Mica mimic some of these patterns but with louder, wider direction.  Vibrant Red vinyl follows along with thin lines, providing contrasting texture and dynamic flow.  The only other non-painted surfaces are the dramatic alpha and numeric Black vinyl call-outs of the fuel door, tire size and SKYACTIV®[1] TECHNOLOGY pronounced across the hood. 

Like the Club Sport 6, the Mazda3 variant features a Mazda Design-developed accessory aero kit which adds the body color-contrasting Brilliant Black front, rear and side diffusers along with a new rear spoiler style.  Designed in North America, this aero kit will be made available for all 2014 Mazda3 vehicles sold worldwide.  Pricing will be announced closer to its on-sale date.

Equipped with a SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter gasoline engine, the Club Sport 3 features a modified SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed manual transmission derived from Mazda's CX-5 compact SUV.  Using a short 4.7:1 final drive ratio, the gearing is 20 percent shorter than in a SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter-equipped Mazda3.  The Club Sport 3 also utilizes a Wavetrac® helical limited-slip differential for additional torque.  Added performance features include a CUSCO coilover kit, a Racing Beat performance exhaust and Brembo two-piece, six-piston 380x32 drilled brake rotors.  Rays 57 Motorsport G07FXX 20-inch Black and Machining-colored 10-spoke wheels are packaged with Bridgestone Potenza™ RE-11 235/35R19 road-gripping performance tires.

Not to be outdone, the Club Sport 3's interior offers its own "pop" with Red aniline leather throughout – seat trim, door panel inserts, center console, IP decor and a steering wheel stripe.  Premium Black leather is reserved for the steering wheel, arm rest, emergency brake and shifter boot.  The front seats feature perforated leather within the seat bolsters with a diffusing line pattern in the seat back creating a "3," identical to the Metallic Silver numeral painted onto the vehicle's driver's side door.  Stitching patterns also spared no expense with trapezoidal Momo-inspired contrast-Red stitching on the steering wheel and double-stitched tonal deck seams on the doors, seats and IP.  The steering wheel features a single Red aniline leather strip at the minimalist but top-of-mind high-noon position.

Vector 3 Concept
Shifting gears from fast to fashion, the Vector 3 Concept offers a different take on controlled aggression.  First on the exterior, the base color is Soul Red, a stock Mazda hue as sultry and intense as the certain little black dress that takes your breath away.  Derived from Soul Red is a Mazda Design custom blend of Deep Crimson in varying shades of depth to highlight the "fractured line" treatment of the paint finish's vector pattern.  Following the form in which reflections bounce off the vehicle's KODO design facets, the vector shapes of variable length and width are identical on other side of the concept car.  Although a pattern inspired from the runways of the fashion elite, the Vector 3 hones its attitude from the world of active lifestyle and performance wear.  Fitting like a stylish pair of cross-trainers, the Vector 3 offers little fuss but commands plenty of attention.


A set of Rays Volk Racing Original G25 19-inch wheels are encased in road-hugging Yokohama S.drive® 225/40R19 performance tires.  Other performance features include an H&R spring kit and Brembo two-piece custom four-piston 365x29 drilled rotors.

Ceramic 6 Concept
Continuing on the theme of uncompromised performance draped with unconventional yet beautiful design enters the Ceramic 6 Concept.  While similar to the Vector 3 in that its design pattern is identical on either side, this also is where the likeness ends.  And where the Club Sport concept vehicles emphasized their racing heritage, the Ceramic 6 focuses on racing patterns.

The Ceramic 6's exterior finish is an eponymous Ceramic White littered with Taupe Silver accent stripes.  Such as the linear frequency patterns found on the likes of couture dresses and flowing fabrics, Ceramic 6's garb radiates a presence of serenity and pureness.  Using a base metallic followed by a satin quality clear paint, the vehicle's matte white finish was achieved.

Matching its accent lines Ceramic 6 rides on Rays Volk Racing Original G25 10-spoke, 20-inch wheels finished in Taupe Silver. Performance accessories include an H&R spring kit, a Racing Beat custom dual-exhaust and custom Brembo two-piece, six-piston 380x32 drilled rotors.

The interior resembles something out of a Milan fashion studio with premium soft leathers, intricate stitching and overlapping weave patterns.  Easily an outfit that can be presented on the runway, the Ceramic 6 further distances itself from the Club Sport 6.  Where the Club Sport represented motorsports and historical drives, the Ceramic 6 is reminiscent of Rodeo Drive.  Yet as dissimilar in design as the two mid-size sedans are, no one can deny that they remain genetic twins – built to perform and handle roads with prowess, regardless the exterior's cloak.

Featuring supple full-grain leather all around, the White presents a canvas clean in appearance that boldly complements the dark interior features such as the premium Black leather of the steering wheel, arm rests, emergency brake and center console.  Accented metallic details provide a warm transition between the tones.  Wrapped in Black leather, the steering wheel displays Light White Momo-style stitching and finished with a matching leather strip at the high-noon position. 

Comprising the front and rear seat inserts are interwoven light and dark White leather while hand-sewn Burgundy stitching further highlights the dynamic contrasting design.  Light White leather inserts featuring the same hand-sewn Burgundy stitching pattern adorn the doors and is featured along the instrument panel decor in the same fashion.

Check out Liberty Mazda and find us on Facebook and Twitter for further news and updates.

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Mazda to Exhibit All New Mazda3 at Tokyo Motor Show

Mazda Motor Corporation will showcase the recently-released Mazda Axela (known as Mazda3 here in the States) with a variety of engine types at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show. Mazda's latest models and technologies, such as to the Mazda CX-5 crossover SUV and the flagship Mazda Atenza (Mazda6 here), will also be on display. Both models feature SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and the KODO—Soul of Motion design theme. The 43rd Tokyo Motor Show opens to the public on November 23 at Tokyo Big Sight. The Mazda Axela goes on sale in Japan on November 21.
All-new Axela Sport '20S Touring L Package'
All-new Axela Sport '20S Touring L Package'

The company's theme for this year's Tokyo Motor Show is "Mazda defies convention to keep fun-to-drive alive." The theme expresses the company's desire to introduce people all around the world to the joy of driving that is unique to the Mazda brand. This goal is supported by four pillars; SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY, opening up new possibilities in both environmental and driving performance; KODO design, which expresses a dynamic and powerful life force; Mazda's safety philosophy Mazda Proactive Safety; and a new-generation car connectivity system called Mazda Connect.

The Mazda3 is a core model in the Mazda line-up accounting for more than thirty percent of the company's global sales volume, and it is the third of Mazda's new generation vehicles to be completely redesigned. At the Tokyo Motor Show, the Mazda3 SKYACTIV-CNG Concept, which runs on compressed natural gas (CNG), will be exhibited for the first time alongside gasoline, hybrid, and diesel-engine models. Mazda is proposing the new Axela as a 'multi-solution.' Capable of using a diverse range of energy sources, every model still offers Mazda's trademark fun-to-drive experience. Furthermore, regardless of fuel-type, all models in the Mazda3 line-up feature SKYACTIV engines—a testament to the versatility of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY.

The new Mazda stand will also feature technology exhibits explaining Mazda's unique Human Machine Interface (HMI) and car connectivity system. Alongside new-generation models such as the Mazda CX-5 and Mazda6, the displays show Mazda's most recent technologies and hint at the direction of future models.

Lists of exhibits
Reference
exhibits
Mazda Axela Sport SKYACTIV-D 2.2 [2 units] On sale Jan 2014
Mazda3 SKYACTIV-CNG Concept World premiere
Special Edition Mazda Demio On sale Dec 2013
Mazda Atenza ASV-5 (Advanced Safety Vehicle)
Currently
available
models
Mazda Axela Sport (SKYACTIV-G 2.0 & 1.5) [3 units]; Mazda Axela Hybrid (SKYACTIV-HYBRID) [2 units]; Mazda Atenza Sedan and Wagon [2units]; Mazda CX-5 [2 units]; Mazda Premacy (Mazda5); Mazda Biante Granz (special needs vehicle); Mazda Roadster (MX-5); and Mazda Flairwagon Custom micro-mini
Technology
exhibits
Interior model of the all-new Axela, SKYACTIV-HYBRID engine model, SKYACTIV-D 2.2 engine model, etc.
  • - In addition to the above, Mazda will also participate in the SMART MOBILITY CITY 2013 exhibition organized by the SMART MOBILITY CITY 2013 executive committee and the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association.

Summary of major exhibits
Mazda Axela
Featuring i-ACTIVSENSE advanced safety technologies and a new car connectivity system called Mazda Connect, the Axela is the most recent Mazda model to be fully redesigned. With the full suite of SKYACTIV technologies and KODO design, the all-new Axela incorporates Mazda's latest technologies and trademark driving pleasure. The company will offer the model with three different powertrain options (gasoline, diesel and hybrid) making it the first Japanese maker to do so in the Japanese market. At the Tokyo Motor Show, with the addition of the CNG concept model, the new Axela is being offered as "multi-solution" to the diverse needs of customers around the world.
  • SKYACTIV-G 2.0/1.5-liter gasoline engine
    The 2.0-liter engine is paired with a 4-2-1 exhaust system which contributes to the combustion efficiency of this high compression engine. Compared to the previous model with a 4-1 exhaust system (FWD Sport with automatic transmission under JC08 test mode) it offers more torque and approximately 9 percent improved fuel economy. The 1.5-liter gasoline engine model offers greatly increased torque and approximately 26 percent improved fuel economy (comparing FWD sedan with automatic transmission under JC08 test mode).
  • SKYACTIV-HYBRID
    The hybrid models pairs an electric motor with a specially-designed 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine. It realizes both exhilarating driving performance and outstanding fuel economy performance of 30.8 km/L under JC08 test mode.
  • SKYACTIV-D 2.2-liter diesel engine
    The diesel engine model offers torque comparable to a 4.0-liter V8 gasoline engine while meeting Japan's Post-New Long-Term regulations without the need for expensive NOx aftertreatment systems.
  • Mazda3 SKYACTIV-CNG Concept (reference exhibit)
    Demand for CNG-powered vehicles is increasing all over the world and the SKYACTIV-CNG Concept adopts a dual fuel system that runs on both gasoline and CNG. CNG engines must burn fuel at high pressure and because the SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine already achieves a high compression ratio it can easily be modified for CNG with only minor modifications. Vehicles with CNG engines reduce emissions by about 20 percent compared to those with gasoline engines of the same displacement. Mazda proposes the Mazda3 SKYACTIV-CNG Concept as a potential way to offer driving pleasure to even more customers around the world while reducing impact on the environment at the same time.

Mazda3 SKYACTIV-CNG Concept (reference display)
Mazda3 SKYACTIV-CNG Concept (reference display)

Mazda CX-5
This crossover SUV was the first of Mazda's new-generation products incorporating both SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and KODO design. With its bold and dynamic design, responsive driving performance, outstanding environmental and safety performance, and packaging that ensures a comfortable and enjoyable ride for all onboard, it is not surprising that the CX-5 is winning awards in markets around the world. In addition to being named Japan Car of the Year 2012-2013, the model was the best-selling SUV in the country in 2012.

Mazda Atenza
Sporty and refined in both performance and looks, Mazda's flagship also offers the highest level of safety and environmental performance. From the i-ELOOP brake energy regeneration system to the i-ACTIVSENSE advanced safety technologies, the Atenza offers the very best of Mazda's engineering and craftsmanship.

Mazda Atenza ASV-5
The Atenza ASV-5 is equipped with futuristic safety systems. In a world-first, one of these systems enables automobiles with an in-car autonomous sensor to communicate with streetcars, helping to prevent collisions and support a smooth and safe flow of traffic. Mazda's aim is to support safe and smooth coordination between automobiles and streetcars, in which there is renewed interest as an eco-friendly form of public transportation. Mazda began trials on public roads using ITS in September 2013 and the system was demonstrated at the 20th ITS World Congress Tokyo 2013 held earlier in October.

Mazda Atenza ASV-5 (Advanced Safety Vehicle)
Mazda Atenza ASV-5 (Advanced Safety Vehicle)

Check out the Mazda3's at Liberty Mazda and make sure to stay tuned on our Facebook and Twitter for future news and updates.

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Fall Maintenance Tips!

Fall is here and winter is coming! Here are some maintenance tips to keep your car looking good and running smoothly: 
  • Wax your car
  • Replace carpeted mats with rubber or waterproof mats
  • Replace your windshield wipers if they are more than six months old
  • Top off your windshield wiper fluid (if it’s especially cold, use fluid with de-icer)
  • Check your radiator coolant level when your car has been idle for a while (never open the cap when the car is hot)
  • Check all hoses for wear or leaks
  • Make sure all your lights (headlamps, brake lights, tail lights, signals) are working

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Rear-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive, 4-Wheel Drive, and All-Wheel Drive Simplified.



Rear-wheel drive (RWD) cars have the back wheels pushing the car along. Most race cars have RWD because the driver can still steer if the wheels break loose and, in straight acceleration, a car tilts back, giving more traction to the rear wheels.

Front-wheel drive (FWD) cars have the front wheels pulling the car along. Front wheel drive cars are safer to drive in the snow and rain than rear wheel drive cars because there is more weight over the drive wheels, offering better traction. They also typically get better fuel economy.

Four-wheel drive (4WD) cars are different from all wheel drive (AWD) in that four wheel drive is an option from rear-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive drives all wheels on all surfaces continuously. Four-wheel drive (low mode) offers significant off road driving capability.

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Car Terminology 101: What does the "V" in "V6" stand for?



Have you ever heard someone talking about a V6 or V8 engine and wondered what the "V" stood for? Well, turns out it actually doesn't stand for anything! The V refers to the geometric arrangement of the cylinders and pistons. When viewed from the front of the engine the cylinders will form a V.

If you ever hear someone say "V4", they don't know what they're talking about, because it doesn't exist. If an engine has four cylinders, they are arranged in a straight line. The specifications will usually say I4, which is short for inline 4.  However, there are also inline 6 and 8 cylinder engines.

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

How Can I Keep My Car Paint Looking New?

Tip: If you are going to wash your car often and use automatic car washes over hand washing, make sure you take your vehicle to a touch less car wash rather than a standard one. The contact between your car and the brushes can wear down your auto body paint and cause damage quickly.

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

5 Easy Steps on How To Beat Your Friends in Go-Kart Races

1. Have good posture. This leads to better turning control.
2. Learn how to make an efficient turn (see above picture).
3. Do most of your breaking before you start turning. The less time you're on the break during the turn, the faster you will go and the wheels won't lock.
4. Pass people by being faster at turns and cruising by them at the apex.
5.  Go full-throttle on the straightaways.

Then enjoy a victory dance after you win.