The Review of the 2014 Mazda 3

Since its 2003 debut, the Mazda 3 has always left us grinning. We even kept grinning after Mazda’s designers pasted an actual smile on the face of the second-generation model. That stylistic misstep turned out to be one of our biggest gripes with the old 3; others were essentially limited to a smallish rear seat and the so-so fuel economy when equipped with the 2.5-liter engine. Still, a 3 with the 2.5 finished a strong second behind the current Ford Focus and ahead of a Volkswagen Jetta, Chevrolet Cruze, and Hyundai Elantra in a 2011 comparison test.

No Bones about These Bones

The Mazda 3 has been thoroughly redone for 2014, and the result might stand a chance at unseating the 10Best-winning Ford Focus, a comparison-test darling, as king of the segment. Previously, this would have constituted a sibling rivalry, as the 3 shared a platform with the first-generation Focus. But with Ford and Mazda’s divorce finalized, the Japanese company whipped up its own lightweight Skyactiv architecture and slid it under the new Mazda 3. (The Skyactiv name is also applied to the platforms that support the CX-5 and new 6, but the 3’s structure, although conceptually similar, is unique.)

According to Mazda, the new structure boasts a 30-percent improvement in torsional rigidity, and curb weight is down by about 60 and 100 pounds, depending on trim level. We haven’t weighed the 3 on our scales, but Mazda’s numbers are generally within a few pounds of ours, so figure on a weight range of 2800–3050 pounds. Other pertinent numbers: The wheelbase is stretched by 2.4 inches, overall length is down by just over half an inch in the sedan version and 1.8 inches in the five-door, width is up by 1.6 inches, and height is down by 0.6 inch. Rear-seat space is now class competitive and comfortable for six-footers.

Back To School with Mazda Motorsports

 It’s back-to-school time for school kids across the county and the acclaimed R.A.C.E. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) education outreach program is back in action. Parkway Family Mazda could not be more proud of this program launched by Mazda in January, the Racing Accelerates Creative Education (R.A.C.E.) outreach program has now positively impacted more than 10,000 middle and high school students. To date, there have been 22 interactive presentations at 12 schools local to the TUDOR United SportsCar Championship events.

“This STEM program has been one of the most rewarding things we’ve done at Mazda Motorsports,” enthused John Doonan, Director, Mazda Motorsports and driving force behind Mazda’s R.A.C.E. STEM initiative. “We’re happy to report that our future is in good hands as the students that we’ve been fortunate enough to interact with are demonstrating the drive, initiative and curiosity that it takes to convert STEM education into global innovation.”

Earlier this week over 1,400 students from James Bowie High School and Akins High School in Austin experienced Mazda’s STEM presentation.  Thanks to the STEM advocates and leadership team at Circuit of the Americas, each student was given a free race ticket for this weekend’s race.

“Through the track promoter ticket giveaways, we’ve been able to bring students to the race events and take them behind the curtain to show how Mazda uses STEM in every aspect of our racing and engineering programs,” explained Joel Miller, Mazda factory driver, race team degreed engineer, and Mazda’s featured speaker at the schools. “We’re grateful to those promoters that have supported the program, because together, we’ve created not only new sports car racing fans, but we’ve made the connection between the classroom and the careers in motorsports. It’s fantastic.”

Mazda’s 2014 STEM campaign will close out with two more presentations in advance of the Road Atlanta Petit Le Mans race. Both will be held at Collins Hill High School in Suwanee, Ga. on September 30. Plans for the 2015 R.A.C.E. STEM schedule are underway.

2015 Mazda3 finally pairs 6-speed manual with larger engine

Parkway Family Mazda knows that with all of the hype and anticipation surrounding the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata, the Japanese brand was able to sneak another driver-oriented model into its lineup. The company's spec page for the 2015 Mazda3 hatchback and sedan have been updated to list the Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter four-cylinder as finally being available with a six-speed manual transmission, in addition to the previous six-speed automatic. The automaker had promised the row-your-own gearbox with the bigger engine back when it first announced the new Mazda3, but it waited a model year to actually put the combo on sale.

According to Mazda's specs, the manual gearbox trims 40 pounds off of a hatchback or 54 pounds off of a sedan in s Touring and s Grand Touring trims. However, shedding that weight doesn't necessarily boost fuel economy. The six-speed hatch is rated at 26 miles per gallon city and 35 mpg highway, compared to 27/37 for the automatic. The manual sedan is rated at 25/37 city/highway mpg, versus 28/39 with the auto. Buyers can save a little money by opting for the manual, though. Regardless of body style, it's about $1,050 cheaper than the automatic. There are two, other minor 2015 model year changes, as well. The Mazda Connect infotainment system and rear camera are now standard on the i Touring model, and all buyers can get Mazda Connect upgraded to include navigation for $399.95 from dealers, if they don't already have nav.

Autoblog reached out to Mazda and learned that the 2.5L 6MT models started hitting dealers in August. The 2.5 wasn't initially available with the stick because, "We had to prioritize engineering resources and the 2.5L 6MT was not a high priority combination. Globally, smaller engines are preferred in terms of sales," a Mazda spokesperson explained via email. The automaker also notes that Austrailia will probably be the only other market outside of North America to get the six-speed gearbox with the larger engine.

Mazda To Launch New RX-7 And RX-9 By 2020

Parkway Family Mazda realizes that while there have been plenty of reports on the potential return of a rotary-powered sports car at Mazda, the latest has got to be the most ambitious yet. Motoring claims Mazda could launch not one but two rotary sports cars within the next several years, giving the automaker a three-tiered sports car lineup (when you include the MX-5 Miata) that could rival similar sports car lineups talked about by the likes of Honda, Nissan and Toyota.

The Australian publication is reporting that Mazda’s recent record profit ($1.88 billion for the year ending March 31, 2014) will be used to boost R&D spending, presumably in the area of sports car development.

In just a couple of weeks we’ll see the covers come off the all-new 2016 MX-5 Miata, and this will reportedly be followed by a new RX-7 in 2017. The date is important as it marks the 50th anniversary of the Mazda Cosmo Sport, Mazda’s first rotary-powered car and the first volume production car to feature such an engine.

Then, in 2020, with all eyes on Japan for the Tokyo Olympic Games, Mazda will reportedly launch a new RX-9 halo sports car. The year is also a significant one for Mazda as it marks the automaker’s centenary.

"This is a very fantastic idea, 2017, [for] a new rotary," Mazda global sales and marketing chief Yasuhiro Aoyama told Motoring when quizzed about the possibility of a new rotary sports car arriving in 2017. "We celebrate the anniversary of rotary in 2017—then 2020 is the Olympics in Tokyo and the 100th anniversary of Mazda."

No details about the new sports cars were revealed, although the flexibility of the 2016 MX-5 Miata’s new SkyActiv chassis is mentioned. The last we heard, the new RX-7 would be powered by Mazda’s still-in-development 16X rotary engine and produce around 300 horsepower. The same engine has also been tipped for the RX-9 but with output boosted further by an electrically-driven turbocharger. Hybrid technology is also said to be a possibility for the RX-9, allowing it to keep up in the technology front with new hybrid sports cars from rival brands.

Introducing the All-New Mazda Miata!

The sheets are off the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata, but many secrets remain.

Parkway Family Mazda could not be more proud of the Miata. It has set world records and has always been an iconic staple in the Mazda brand. The all-new car marks the fourth generation of the best-selling two-seat roadster of all time, with over 940,000 sold worldwide since 1989.

The car remains instantly recognizable as a Miata, but features the automaker’s new “Kodo” design language with sculpted bodywork, sharp edges, trim headlights and a five-sided grille. Under its very low hood is a four-cylinder engine mounted behind the front axle to help provide a near perfect 50/50 weight distribution.

Mazda has not yet said how large or powerful that motor is, or exactly how much the car weighs, except that it is at least 220 pounds lighter than the current model, which would put it at no more than 2260 pounds and make it one of the lightest cars sold in the United States.

Aluminum bodywork and a new soft top design help trim the weight. Mazda has not confirmed if a retractable hardtop model will continue to be available, but despite the weight loss, the size of the cabin remains the same.

The MX-5 Miata will feature six speed manual and automatic transmission options, both sending power to the rear wheels, of course. Pedals and controls are said to be optimally placed for comfort and performance, and the tachometer is positioned front and center behind the steering wheel.

For the first time, steering is electrically assisted, but the front suspension retains a double-wishbone design, similar to most racing cars.

More details are expected to be announced at the Paris Motor Show in October, and the MX-5 Miata should go on sale sometime next year.

MAZDA FOUNDATION ISSUES $25,000 GRANT TO THE SPCA FOR MONTEREY COUNTY

The Mazda Foundation (USA), Inc. believes strongly in helping furry friends (and some not so furry) who find themselves neglected, homeless or injured. On Saturday, August 16th, the Mazda Foundation presented the local, independent SPCA for Monterey County with a generous $25,000 grant.

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United 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.
"The work that the SPCA of Monterey County does is so important to this community – their doors are open to all animals in need - from dogs and cats to horses, wildlife, exotics, and more," said Robert Davis, president, Mazda Foundation. "We are happy that the Mazda Foundation can help support this worthy organization."

In recognition of this $25,000 grant, the Mazda Foundation will receive a plaque prominently displayed in SPCA's new Dog Adoption building where dogs and puppies wait for their new, loving homes.

With the SPCA for Monterey County and Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca located just across Highway 68 from each other, Mazda and its employees have been longtime supporters of the SPCA. Since 2007, Mazda Motorsports has worked hand-in-paw with the SPCA to promote shelter adoptions at select race weekends. Promotions have ranged from having MUTTS Comics stars Mooch and Earl at the track, naming animals after Mazda racers, special guest drivers like Indy 500 winner Danny Sullivan, and a Bunnies helping bunnies promotion with Playboy.

"The SPCA's relationship with Mazda Racing and the Mazda Foundation has benefitted the thousands of companion animals, horses, and wildlife rescued and cared for by the SPCA. Mazda always goes above and beyond in supporting our work for the animals," said Gary Tiscornia, SPCA Executive Director. "Mazda staff take animal protection personally. They bring drivers to the SPCA Adoption Pavilion to meet the pets named after them and always provide us opportunities to share in exciting Mazda programs at the historic Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. We are very grateful for their support."

Through the Mazda Foundation, Mazda and its employees are working together to proactively help communities build a better, brighter future. With contributions exceeding $8 million since its founding in 1992, the Mazda Foundation is playing a meaningful role in helping thousands of Americans realize their aspirations and dreams.

Mazda Foundation (USA) Inc.
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. To learn more about the Mazda Foundation, please visit www.mazdafoundation.org.

The SPCA for Monterey County is your nonprofit, independent, donor-supported humane society that has been serving the animals and people of Monterey County since 1905. The SPCA is not a chapter of any other agency and does not have a parent organization.  They shelter homeless, neglected and abused pets and livestock, and provide humane education and countless other services to the community. They are the local agency you call to investigate animal cruelty, rescue and rehabilitate injured wildlife, and aid domestic animals in distress.

Are You Excited for the New MX-5 Miata?

Parkway Family Mazda fells that tech nerds are spoiled. Every year, there's a new iPhone that arrives following months and months of breathless speculation and rumormongering. We car folk have a more difficult life, because vehicles with the iPhone's cult-like devotion and following, while plentiful, only receive hefty updates after several years. Case in point, the all-new  Mazda MX-5.

There's a new one coming, and much like the iPhone 6, it'll arrive in just a few weeks. So, in lockstep with the tech folk, we're anxiously biding our time and waiting with baited breath for the expected debut date of September 3. Also, like Apple fanboys, we're clamoring over any hint or teaser as to what the next-gen Miata will bring, which is why we're showing you the above image.

That is, allegedly, the new MX-5 hiding under the sheet. Auto Motor und Sport has the image, which according to World Car Fans was released by Mazda. Of course, we've reached out to the Zoom-Zoom brand for verification of its authenticity, and will be sure to update as soon as we hear back.

Until then, what can we see on this sheet-festooned roadster? Well, the wheel arches look suitably flared, while the traditional long-hood, short-deck look of the past three generations of Miatas soldiers on. According to Auto Motor und Sport, the track has been widened, while the wheelbase has also been stretched. The big news is that the new car should trim around 100 kilograms (220 pounds) of body fat and that it will boast a perfect fifty-fifty weight distribution.

Of course, should we hear anything more, we'll be sure to update you. Stay tuned.

Mazda Hits Record Sales Numbers for July!

Parkway Family Mazda is proud to announce that Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) reported July U.S. sales of 29,238 vehicles, representing an increase of 17.1 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through July are up 9.3 percent versus last year, with 185,669 vehicles sold.

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United 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.
"Mazda3, Mazda6 and CX-5 continue to show strong gains month after month as more and more customers realize the benefits of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY," said Ron Stettner, vice president of sales, MNAO. "Mazda hasn't sold this many vehicles in the month of July since 1993. A big part of that success is building the brand and showing customers that buying a Mazda isn't buying an economy car on discount, it is buying a near-premium experience for a great value."

Key July sales notes:

July 2014 marked Mazda's best July since 1993 (21 years) with 29,238 vehicles sold and an increase of 17.1 percent year-over-year (YOY).
The 2014 Mazda3 accounted for 9,381 vehicles sold and an increase of 1.6 percent YOY, making it the best July for Mazda3 since 2010.
Mazda CX-5 saw its best July ever with 9,109 vehicles sold and an increase of 16.4 percent YOY.
Mazda6 recorded its best July in eight years (2006) with 5,049 vehicles sold, an increase of 46.5 percent YOY.

SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY proves to be the key between performance and fuel efficiency as customers demand a no compromise solution. More than 80.0 percent of Mazdas sold in July were equipped with SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY.
Mazda's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) sales reported July sales of 3,637 vehicles, up 12.0 percent YOY. Year-to-date sales CPO sales are up 15 percent versus last year, with 24,289 vehicles sold.
Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) reported July sales of 3,610 vehicles, up 26.0 percent versus July of last year and the 18th consecutive month of YOY growth. July 2014 also marked a sales milestone for MMdM as they reached 200,000 total vehicle sales in their history.

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

Mazda is Most Improved Non-Premium Brand in 2014 J.D. Power Apeal Study

 Parkway Family Mazda is proud to announce that Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) was recognized by J.D. Power as the most improved Non-Premium brand, moving from 16th place with 776 points in 2013 to 9th place with 790 points in its 2014 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study(SM). Additionally, the 2014 Mazda6 (821 points) received highest honors in the Midsize Car segment, scoring 21 points above the segment average. The Mazda brand scored five points above the Non-Premium average and showed the largest place movement (improved seven positions) and index score improvement (increased 14 points) within Non-Premium brands.

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United 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.

"One of the main principles in our DNA is 'Kaizen', which is a Japanese term that means 'continuous improvement through wisdom and ingenuity,' said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO. "Mazda's improvement in this year's 2014 J.D. Power APEAL study shows that our continued focus on improving vehicles through ongoing evaluations and customer feedback is changing their opinion of the brand, and for the better. Customers are more satisfied with their new Mazda than ever before."

Mazda6 wasn't the only Mazda vehicle to perform well. In fact, all Mazda vehicles equipped with SKYACTIV®1 TECHNOLOGY and KODO Design did very well in their respective classes. The 2014 Mazda3 scored 17 points above the Compact Car average, placing it fourth among 18 total cars. The 2014 Mazda CX-5 did equally as well, placing fourth out of 13 in the Compact SUV segment, scoring six points above the segment average.

The APEAL Study examines how gratifying a new vehicle is to own and drive. Manufacturers worldwide use the study to help them design and develop more appealing vehicles; consumers use it to help them make purchase decisions. The 2014 APEAL Study is based on responses gathered between February and May 2014 from more than 86,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2014 model-year cars and light trucks, who were surveyed after the first 90 days of ownership. The APEAL Study complements the Initial Quality Study (IQS), which focuses on problems experienced by owners during the first 90 days of ownership.

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

Mazda Brake Savings Event

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Enjoy exclusive instant brake savings toward any brake service or repair with us.

Valid Only At: Parkway Family Mazda

August 1st - 31st

(Plus applicable taxes. Valid only at Parkway Family Mazda. Cannot be used with any other applicable offer. Mazda vehicles only. Some vehicles may be slightly higher. Hazardous waste disposal and shop supplies fee if applicable. Please present coupon at time of write-up. No cash value. Expires 8/31/2014.)

Complimentary Brake Inspection Plus...

%10 OFF

Save 10%* on any service necessary for repairs recommended during your Complimentary Brake Inspection. Only Genuine Mazda Brakes offer a Lifetime Limited Warranty on Original Equipment and Value Product Brakes. *Max Discount: $100.00

Valid Only At: Parkway Family Mazda

August 1st - 31st

(Plus applicable taxes. Valid only at Parkway Family Mazda. Cannot be used with any other applicable offer. Mazda vehicles only. Some vehicles may be slightly higher. Hazardous waste disposal and shop supplies fee if applicable. Please present coupon at time of write-up. No cash value. Expires 8/31/2014.)

Experienced Professionals
We deliver expert service from Mazda-trained professionals who know your Mazda best, using GENUINE MAZDA BRAKES, engineered specifically for your vehicle.

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We have two great offers from your local participating Mazda dealer. Please select & print your offers above. Offers good August 1st–31st, 2014. See Participating Authorized Mazda Dealer for details.

*MAZDA BRAKE WARRANTY
Our brakes stop, our warranty doesn't. All Genuine Mazda and Value Products by Mazda Brake Pads and Shoes come with a Lifetime Limited Warranty.
All Mazda Genuine Parts or Value Products by Mazda Brake Pads and Shoes are under warranty, as long as the original purchaser of the replacement brake pads or shoes owns the vehicle on which they were originally installed.
Warranty is always valid if installation was done by an authorized Mazda dealer.
If the brake pads and/or shoes become damaged, defective, or worn out during the warranty period, they may be exchanged for new warranty-equivalent Mazda Genuine Parts or Value Products by Mazda brake pads or shoes.
Upon purchase, your authorized Mazda dealer will provide you with a service repair order, which is considered "proof of purchase" under the terms of the warranty. When requesting a warranty replacement, the service repair order must be presented, and the original components must be returned and exchanged for new replacement brake pads or shoes.
The customer is responsible for installation charges upon replacement. See your authorized Mazda dealer for a complete list of warranty rights and limitation.

Will the Mazda2 be offered as a PHEV with a rotary engine range extender?

Parkway Family Mazda has been keeping its ear to the ground, and its fingers crossed, for news on Mazda reviving the rotarty engine. Every few months, it seems a rumor crops up about plans from Mazda to revive the rotary engine. Last November, its CEO said the only way another one could happen is if the project was profitable, and then a month later the automaker showed off the Mazda2 RE Range Extender with a 330cc Wankel engine mounted in the rear. Now, Australian auto site Motoring reports that the PHEV may actually make production in the next-gen Mazda2 sometime after it's initial launch.

Martin Benders, managing director of Mazda in Australia, spoke to Motoring about the company's future with hybrids and basically reiterated what the CEO said last year. The Japanese automaker only plans to offer electrified powertrains in places where they can sell in sufficient numbers to be profitable, like Japan.

Mazda has been playing with the rotary range-extender idea for years. In the RE prototype, the engine was exclusively used to charge the lithium-ion batteries when they were running low, and a 100-horsepower electric motor provided all of the propulsion. It gave the little hatch an estimated range of about 250 miles. The company reportedly took inspiration from its Skyactiv engines to make the Wankel have lower friction and a lighter weight.

The next-generation Mazda2 is rumored to debut during the Paris Motor Show wearing Mazda's Kodo design language. While the hybrid supposedly won't be part of the initial launch lineup, the internal combustion powertrain lineup will consist of gas and diesel versions of Mazda's 1.5-liter Skyactiv four-cylinder. However, the new diesel version is not likely to be available in the US.

Parkway Family Service Specials through 7-11-14

Parkway Family Mazda is currently running some amazing service specials for the next few days, so if you are in need of service, make sure that you take advantage of these amazing deals. 

1. FREE alignment with the purchase of 4 tires (includes lifetime rotation) 

(Plus tax, shop supplies, and disposable waste fees where applicable. Coupon not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at the time of write-up. Limit one coupon per customer. Coupon does not apply to prior purchases.)

2. $9.95 Tire Rotation with any Service

(Plus tax, shop supplies, and disposable waste fees where applicable. Coupon not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at the time of write-up. Limit one coupon per customer. Coupon does not apply to prior purchases.)

3. $25.00 OFF per axle Front or Rear brake service (includes machining of rotors or drums and replacement of pads or shoes)

(Plus tax, shop supplies, and disposable waste fees where applicable. Coupon not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at the time of write-up. Limit one coupon per customer. Coupon does not apply to prior purchases.)

4. $19.95 A/C System Check and Inspection, Check belts, Hoses, Condenser and Freon level for Max Cooling this Summer!

  (Plus tax, shop supplies, and disposable waste fees where applicable. Coupon not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at the time of write-up. Limit one coupon per customer. Coupon does not apply to prior purchases.)

Make sure that you don't miss out on these fantastic deals as you prepare for the long brutal Houston summer to come. We are servicing all of the Greater Houston, Atascosita, Humble, Kingwood, Conroe, and Cleveland area. Click the following link to schedule your service now: http://goo.gl/9D3pzm

Spy shots of the new 2015 MX-5 Miata!

Parkway Family Mazda is excited to speculate on the fact that Mazda gave us our first insight into the technology that will underpin the all-new fourth-generation MX-5  at the 2014 New York Motor Show but the item on display wasn't the new Mazda MX-5 itself. Instead, the advanced new SKYACTIV-chassis and engine that will form the backbone of the new MX-5 was revealed. Mazda confirmed the engine will be positioned behind the front axle and closer to the car’s centre than ever before, plus the centre of gravity will be lower than previous generations – factors that should improve the handling.

The new chassis has also been engineered for “outstanding body rigidity and crashworthiness”, while the weight has been reduced by more than 100kg through the use of thinner, higher-strength steels. As a result, entry-level soft-top models are expected to weigh less than 1,050kg.

Mazda MX-5 2015: Engine Technology

This test mule pictured is likely to be using the 1750TB engine from the Alfa 4C, which could find its way under the bonnet of the new Alfa Spider. The 1.75-litre four-cylinder engine develops 237bhp and as Alfa engineers are aiming for a sub-1000kg kerbweight, the Spider could have similar performance figures to the 4C. From Mazda's point of view, a hot version of the MX-5, which would rival the Alfa Spider with the 1750TB engine isn’t likely. Mazda’s primary focus at the moment is all about weight saving and reducing CO2 emissions via the SkyActiv technology.

The MX-5 engine range is more likely to include a pair of more economical naturally-aspirated four-cylinder SKYACTIV petrol engines – one a 1.5-litre unit and the other a 2.0-litre, with around 130bhp and 165bhp respectively. A manual gearbox will continue to be offered, with an auto as an option.

Mazda, meanwhile, is also considering fitting the MX-5 with a diesel engine for the first time, but a new 130bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine featuring SkyActiv technology, is expected to be the pick of the bunch.

Mazda MX-5 2015: Design and Styling

Mazda has dropped more clues as to how its new MX-5 will look when it is unveiled later in 2014. Chief designer Peter Birtwhistle told Auto Express that it will be more masculine than the current car when we met him at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show.

Said Birtwhistle: “If I had to describe it in one word, it’d be ‘edgy’. I think it will be a surprise for people.

“It’s a tight edgy little car that is going to appeal to a broader range of people. We know the clichés about the MX-5 as it gets older, but this will position it differently. I think it’ll attract a lot of young guys.”

The car will not share the Mazda family face seen on the Mazda 3 hatchback - it will get a unique design.

“We need to take on some of the flavor of Kodo [Mazda’s design language], but we have to ensure it is identifiable as an MX-5. It is a standalone product for us," said Birtwhistle.

“You sometimes think after three generations let’s start afresh with a clean sheet of paper. But you have a massive customer base who have a connection with the previous car, so you have to tread carefully.”

Alfa Romeo Collaboration

The venture with Alfa Romeo is organised so that the two companies can share the initial investment and boost profits. However, the Alfa Romeo Spider model that will use the same technology as the new Mazda MX-5 is not expected until the end of 2015 so the Mazda will get a clear run at the roadster market. An Abarth version of the car has also been rumoured but details of this are just as sketchy. The current MX-5 is known as the MX-5 Miata in North America and the Roadster in Japan.

Besides the basic steel structure, the Mazda MX-5 won’t share very much with the Alfa. With high-strength steels used throughout, engineers are aiming to strip at least 100kg from the current MX-5’s kerbweight, with 1,050kg the target figure.

44 Miatas engaged to spell happiness from above

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Parkway Family Mazda felt that this was a very amazing story worth sharing. We've seen all manner of ways to propose marriage, from the usual candlelit dinner to the Jumbotron at the big game. A friend of ours recently proposed with his a barbershop quartet singing backup. But this has to be a new one – and one that automotive enthusiasts would probably find even more touching than a sky-writing biplane.

A member of the Miata.net forum recently asked other MX-5 enthusiasts to help him pop the big question to his bride-to-be. He got 31 Miatas together and needed just four more, but after appealing to his fellow roadster fans, over 40 turned up in the parking lot at the local high school.

The groom-to-be runs an aerial photography business and used an unmanned drone which his girlfriend thought would be shooting some local real estate properties when it flew over the parking lot and captured the image you see above with 44 little roadsters spelling out "Marry Me?" The answer, in case you were wondering, was a resounding "Yes!" How could she not, after all, when those Mazda convertibles are just so darn adorable? Now they'll just need to figure out what they'll be driving to the chapel on the big day.

New Cars Can Save You Hundreds a Year in Fuel Costs

 Charting Fuel Economy Improvements Over Time

If you’ve been on the fence about whether to trade up to a new car, here’s a little fuel for the fire: Replacing your 10-year-old car with a new version of the same model could save you more than $600 annually in fuel costs.

While that may not amount to much more than one payment for many moderately priced models, $600 isn’t exactly pocket change, either. And combined with the added safety features, improved crash protection, up-to-date electronic connectivity, and the security of a new car warranty, the savings may be enough to help you tip the scales toward buying a new car.

It’s no secret that the overall mpg of virtually all new vehicles has been inching up over the years, thanks to more advanced engines and transmissions, low-rolling resistance tires, overall weight savings, and other factors. Likewise, horsepower and physical dimensions have grown over time.

To see how far things have come, we went looked at several  models tested about 10 to 12 years ago and compared their overall fuel economy to current versions of the same vehicles. While we saw increases in almost every case, some of the biggest boosts were in mid-sized family sedans. And of those, the four-cylinder Mazda6 was the champ, going from an average mpg of 23 overall back in 2004 to a class-leading 32 overall with the 2014 model. Based on a gas price of $4.00 per gallon for regular and 12,000 miles driven per year, that works out to an annual savings of $587 for the new Mazda.

We also saw a big boost in four-cylinder versions of the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima. Those increased by six and nine mpg overall, respectively, to 30 and 31 mpg. That adds up to a $633 savings for the new Altima every year and $400 for the Accord.

Obviously, if you drive less, the savings won’t be as great. But if you tend to rack up more miles every year, there’s even more reason to make a trade. And, for the record, all the vehicles in our examples were equipped with automatic transmissions.

For most larger sedans and SUVs, the savings weren’t as great. Still, trading in that old Chrysler 300 V6 for a new one could save $345 per year and moving up from a 10-year old Ford Escape to a new, more powerful model could save a substantial $642 annually.

That alone may not be reason enough to escape from your old Escape. But the $3,210 you’d save over five years could really add up, and it could be put toward yet another escape—like a trip to Hawaii.

Make & model                                  2004 mpg                                      2014 mpg

Honda Accord 4-cyl.                           24                                                   30 

Nissan Altima 4-cyl.                             22                                                   31 

Mazda6 4-cyl.                                      23                                                   32 

Toyota Camry 4-cyl.                            24                                                    27 

Toyota Avalon                                      21                                                   24 

Chevrolet Impala                                  20                                                   22 

Chrysler 300 V6                                  19                                                    22 

Honda Civic                                         29                                                   30 

Toyota Corolla                                     29                                                   32 

Nissan Sentra                                       26                                                   29 

Ford Explorer                                      16                                                    18 

Toyota Highlander                                19                                                    20 

Ford Escape (V6/4-cyl. turbo)              17                                                    22 

Honda CR-V                                        21                                                    23 

Car and Driver's 14 Most Improved Cars of 2014 Review

Parkway Family Mazda is excited to announce that Car and Driver just released its information on the 14 most  improved cars of 2014. We are particularly excited because of the great reviews and success of the Mazda brand that was covered. Mazda was fortunate enough to have 3 vehicles represented for 2014. The 2014 Mazda 3, 2014 Mazda 6, and the 2014 Mazda CX-5. The following information is the feedback on these iconic new vehicles.

Mazda 3 - Since the nameplate’s arrival in 2004, the Mazda 3 has been among the very best compacts due to its fun-loving chassis and zesty styling. The third-generation model builds on the former while also delivering tons of refinement and features for the same money charged for most of the (largely inferior) competition. The 3 appears on our 2014 10-Best cars list.

Mazda 6 - Everything we said about the Mazda 3? We’d use the term “ditto” here, but then that wouldn’t be very informative. The 6 combines a heavenly front-drive chassis and a classy interior to deliver a class-leading experience similar to that of the good-at-everything Honda Accord—except the Mazda actually stands out in a crowd. The 6’s predecessor was sportier than most mid-size cars, but always felt slightly under-cooked; today’s 10-Best-winning 6 was baked to delicious perfection.

Mazda CX-5 - If you think we’re going a bit Mazda-crazy here, we understand your concern. But given that the CX-5 shares componentry with the excellent 3 and 6 and is similarly excellent, we couldn't exclude this replacement for the thirsty CX-7 and Ford-based Tribute. This year, the CX-5 made another huge leap forward by way of its newly optional 2.5-liter four-cylinder, which delivers the power lacking from the standard 2.0-liter unit.

The news of these vehicle getting this sort of review, really resonates home with our engineers. It also speaks volumes in regards to the large strides that Mazda has made as an overall brand and Parkway Family Mazda could not be more proud.

Mazda's special MX-5 Miata sells out in a flash

Parkway Family Mazda is blown away at the sales numbers on the 25th anniversary MX-5. All it took was 10 minutes for Mazda to sell out of the entire allotment of 250 anniversary edition MX-5 Miatas.

Miata has been hyping the sale of the MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition models ever since the New York Auto Show in April. It's microsite started taking orders at 1:25 ET and within 10 minutes, poof, all were claimed.

"It is no secret the MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition is a specially-crafted 'Thank you' to every MX-5 fan — former, current and hopefully future," Jim O'Sullivan, CEO for Mazda North American Operations, says in a statement. "Enthusiasm surrounding the MX-5 since its debut in 1989 has been nothing short of phenomenal."

The cars won't arrive in dealerships until later this summer. Each one is numbered, and we checked out 0000 last week in Malibu, Calif. Each was priced at $32,205 for the manual transmission. Buyers also get a fancy Swiss watch.

2014 Mazda MX-5 Miata Nürburgring 24 Hours race car

Parkway Family Mazda is excited for the upcoming iconic race. Mazda will be taking its MX-5 Miata to the Nürburgring next month for the annual 24-hour race that takes place on the arduous German race track. The move is part of Mazda’s 25th anniversary celebrations this year for the MX-5, and to mark the current-generation NC model’s departure from the market. An all-new ND model is due to bow in next year, and we’ve already been given a preview of its new SkyActiv chassis.

For its Nürburgring 24 Hours entry, Mazda is teaming up with JOTA Sport. The British outfit will prepare the MX-5 race car and manage the team. Drivers include former Formula One driver Stefan Johansson (he also drove for Mazda in the 24 Hours of Le Mans) as well as Wolfgang Kaufmann, Owen Mildenhall and Teruaki Kato.

The car they will be driving will be a regular NC MX-5 modified only with safety upgrades for motorsport use. It will compete in the V3 class for production-spec cars with naturally aspirated engines displacing 2.0 liters.

The 2014 Nürburgring 24 Hours will run the weekend starting June 21.

Mazda6 wins again at the 2014 Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards

Parkway Family Mazda could not be more proud of the brand. Mazda6 wins top award for second year at the 2014 Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car awards
SKYACTIV-equipped model recognised for combination of style, performance and efficiency
Mazda6 provides a competitive corporate package, boosting appeal for fleet customers
For the second year in a row, Mazda6 has scooped the top award at the annual Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards. The sixth generation Mazda flagship model beat tough competition in the D segment category including; Hyundai i40, Opel Insignia, Peugeot 508, Toyota Avensis and Ford Mondeo.
Not alone was Mazda6 crowned winner in the D segment category but the all-new Mazda3, Mazda6 Tourer and CX-5 were also shortlisted for C segment, Estate and Crossover categories respectively.
Tony Howarth, Mazda Motor Ireland Managing Director, was delighted to collect the award on behalf of the innovative automaker at yesterday’s (12th May 2014) glittering awards presentation at the Carton House Hotel, Maynooth, County Kildare.
Motorcheck.ie is Ireland’s most comprehensive used-car history resource, specialising in vehicle data and intelligence. The panel of nine motoring experts put each of the shortlisted cars through their paces at a two-day review at Carton House. The judges marked the vehicles on a range of criteria, including driving performance and fuel economy, quality feel and finish, equipment levels, residual values and aftersales packages.
Explaining their selection of the sixth generation Mazda6 as segment winner once again, the expert adjudication panel said some of the key factors in crowning the Mazda6 winner once again were its “exciting driveability and dynamic looks together with driver comfort and an ultra-efficient drivetrain”.
Tony Howarth added: “The Mazda6 is the perfect blend of style, driving dynamics and efficiency, three attributes which are of utmost important to fleet buyers and operators. We’re proud even to be shortlisted for the prestigious Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car awards; it underlines the industry’s trust in the quality, reliability and desirability of our products.”
The Mazda6 was also recently awarded ‘Best Family Car’ at the Irish Car of the Year awards 2014, voted for by the Irish Motoring Writers Association (IMWA), as well as being crowned ‘Best large family car’ by CarBuyer.co.uk. Winning this award for a second year in a row was yet another accolade for the flagship Mazda model which has won over 200 awards globally to date.
The Mazda6 2.2D 150PS Executive model is affordably priced from €29,495 (from €365 per month via Mazda Choices Finance package) and offers a high level of specification with 17” alloy wheels, a Multimedia system featuring a 5.8” touch screen display, Bluetooth with voice control, cruise control, fog lights and start/stop functionality to name just some of the features. With CO2 emissions from just 104g/km and combined fuel consumption from 3.9L/100KM (annual road tax from €190), it is also one of the most efficient yet powerful models in its class.

Mazda’s marvellous mileage

It's delivered the world's best two-seater sports car and has been making surfers smile since the Sixties – and there's no sign of Mazda breaking down any time soon.


Parkway Family Mazda is extremely proud of the Mazda brand. Given that most people associate Mazda with the most popular two-seater the world has ever known, the MX-5, one could argue that Mazda as we know it was born with the birth of that model, the Eunos Roadster as it was first known, in 1989. The familiar corporate M symbol came even later, in 1997. But the company can trace its origins back to 1920, when it began life as the Toyo Cork Kogyo Co, producing machine tools, which fairly swiftly moved on to three-wheel trucks. I love the evolution of a car company: from boring old rock drills in 1935 to a nippy little convertible that inspires love wherever it goes, in a the flash of a few decades, and all from the evolution of one company. If any brands demonstrate the ability to survive through adapting to the demands of the market, it’s car companies.
And so we have Mazda: by 1961 they were working on the innovative Wankel rotary engine, and in 1966 the company introduced its Swinging Sixties Bongo minivan, for surfing dudes who wanted something with a crazy name.
In 1978 there was the RX-7, and by 1991 they achieved the staggering feat of winning Le Mans with the 787B, which was the first victory for a Japanese car, and one with a rotary engine to boot.
The same year, the company showed off its first hydrogen rotary-engined vehicle, followed by a natural-gas powered passenger car in 1992 and an electric-powered MX-5 in 1993.
In 2000, the “Mazda Roadster” as the MX-5 was by then, was recognised as the world’s top-selling open-top two-seater sports car by the Guinness World Records, with 565,779 cars sold.
Skip forward via many new models and styles to 2011, and Mazda was still simply updating the Guinness World Record title, which no other manufacturer has come close to challenging. That year it built the 900,000th MX-5, and filled in a bit of paperwork to update the record for best-selling two-seat sports car. The recipe for success for the MX-5 model remains a brilliantly smart one: affordable fun through clever, dependable, simple technology.
This fits in neatly with the famous “Zoom-Zoom” brand philosophy of delivering “fun and exhilarating driving experiences to customers who remember the emotion of motion first felt as a child”. It’s been a winner so far.