Jan-Feb 07 - Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development

Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:11 PM
Page C1
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page C2
A
Photos by Michelle Carr
fter 16 years in a wheelchair, Mark Winchell knows
exactly what he needs in a new car: a sliding rear door,
hand controls, and enough space behind the driver’s
seat for his full-size wheelchair. In September, when he began
looking to replace his full-size van, he found exactly what he
needed in the MAZDA5—thanks to the helpful team at Ira
Mazda in Danvers, MA.
“The whole dealership was very professional,” said
Winchell. “They gave me all the time I needed to practice getting in and getting out of the car, and they put no pressure on
me to buy. This car is just great; it gives me much better gas
mileage than my van, and is much lower to the ground—
which makes it easier for loading and unloading my wheelchair. The dealership even kicked in $500 toward the hand
controls I needed. It definitely gives me everything I need.”
Here, Ira Mazda Sales Consultant Bill Ianelli shares his recollections of what turned out to be a unique and very rewarding
sales experience for both the customer and dealership. ■
Ira Mazda’s Sales Consultant Bill Ianelli (left) and Senior Technician Earl Dodge (right)
worked closely with Mark Winchell (center) to make sure the MAZDA5 was a perfect fit.
MAZDA5
and Ira Mazda
prove the
perfect fit for
a very special
customer.
With the help of a great sales and service
team at Ira Mazda, Mark Winchell found just
what he needed in the MAZDA5.
da showred the Ira Maz e buildte
en
he
as
l
el
ark Winch
enter th
re of greeting M
exit his van and
I had the pleasu week afternoon. I watched him idence. I was impressed with
mid
conf
e
room on a quiet, sets of doors with ease and ed myself, welcomed him to th
th
in
uc
bo
od
st
g
tr
re
ing, handlin
ith him. I in
e of his inte
I even talked w
. He informed m
this man before ook a very large, powerful hand on the Mazda Web site.
k
e
sh
dealership, and that he had done his homewor ce getting in and out of th
ti
d
tac
an
pr
an
5
w
,
A
van and
surements
the MAZD
tired of his old
e to take mea
Mark had com a test drive. He told me he was handling without giving up the
take
ileage and
h, by the
MAZDA5, and
ed better gas m storage, and his dog, Puck. O
id
ov
pr
at
th
ng
,
ssengers
ed somethi
chair.
he needed for pa would accommodate his wheel and exiting the
power or space
ng
at
ed a vehicle th
practiced enteri d as a team to
way, he also need the measurements, while Mark
other and worke d a very proI got to work on y door. We got to know each
e ha
a daily basis. W
ever
MAZDA5 from issues he would encounter on d how it would satisfy Mark’s
e
an
ssolve some of th exploration of the MAZDA5 the car’s handling characteri
d
ur
te
as
ho
,
ra
eer
w
re
st
ductive th
ling, and po
and demon
ok him for a ride sed with the ride, visibility, hand . The last issue
needs. I also to
ts
es
thoroughly impr rsatility of seating arrangemen be able to lift it
tics. Mark was
ve
and would Mark
rior space and
well as the inte was the wheelchair. Would it fit
lve
ide track
we had to reso the driver’s seat?
-row seat and sl himself
nd
co
se
e
in
th
as
w
ed
, remov
euvered
in while he
ark quickly man
Senior Technician
Earl Dodge, our asked Mark to do his thing. M e sliding door. He then repode th
d
then
in 10 minutes. I at and set his wheelchair besi d through the sliding door an
an
se
ed
at
’s
on
er
se
iv
ti
e
si
dr
th
curely po
into the
h behind
so he could reac
heelchair was se door latch with
e
sitioned himself r. A few seconds later, the w
th
ai
or by hooking
d,
grab his wheelch d been and Mark closed the do ick. Mark looked at me, smile
st
ha
m
oo
at
br
se
a
e
ade from
where th
handle he had m
k would be
a custom-made e we have a winner!”
stalled, and Mar was very
in
ls
lik
ro
ks
nt
oo
co
“L
,
nd
r and
the ha
and said
d was to have
5 a few days lateied. I was proud
All that remaine ok delivery of his new MAZDA
sf
ti
s had been sa
k to
d
ready to go. Mar was treated and how his need idently challenges adversity an
he
nf
w
co
ho
h
ho
it
w
w
pleased
someone
k and work with
to have met Mar lar basis.
gu
triumphs on a re
Bill Ianelli
nt
Sales Consulta
vers, MA
Ira Mazda, Dan
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page 1
2
2
3
4-5
6
7-9
CONTENTS
Mazda Nagare Concept; FUEL Feedback
Spotlight
MAZDASPEED3 for a Marine
Pit Row
New Full Circle Service Process Step-by-Step Guide;
Top 25 Dealers; Best Practices—Technician Recruiting;
Mazda North American Master Technician Competition
Regional Finalists
Front Line
Save the Date: 2007 Mazda North American Dealer
Meeting; Top 25 Dealers—Sales
6
7-9
10-11
On the Move
11-12
Gear Glitz
13
14
15
16
11
First Lap
Mazda Opens Port National City
Grille to Grille
2007 Mazda CX-9 vs. Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander
Fast Track
SpeedSource RX-8s Target Grand-Am GT Title; Mazda
Raceway Laguna Seca 2007 Race Schedule; NHRA Driver
Dee Karagiannis Builds a MAZDASPEED3 Drag Racer
Mazda at 2007 SEMA Show; CX-9 Genuine Mazda
Accessories
Safety
Safety Snapshot—2007 Mazda Models vs. 2007 Competitors’
Models
On Your Mark
SevenStock9; “Revved” Graphic Novel Hits Newsstands
Feature
Mazda Powers Up in Puerto Rico
Final Stretch
Be Tire Pressure Smart; Mazda Motorsports Day; MX-5
and MAZDASPEED3 Named to “10Best” List for 2007
Mazda FUEL® magazine is published by Mazda North American Operations and is an internal
publication intended for employees of Mazda dealerships and Mazda North American Operations.
Please address all correspondence to [email protected] or fax to (949) 727-6813.
The content of Mazda FUEL magazine is prepared in accordance with the highest
standards of journalistic accuracy and was deemed accurate when written.
© 2007 Mazda North American Operations
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page 2
FIRSTLAP
Mazda Nagare
Concept
Mazda design flows
in a new direction.
T
he 2007 auto show season got off to an early start, and
Mazda was ready with an exciting new concept vehicle that
provides a glimpse into the company’s future design direction.
Introduced at the Greater Los Angeles International Auto Show in
early December 2006, the Mazda Nagare (pronounced na-gah-reh)
is what MNAO’s Director of Design Franz von Holzhausen calls a
“concept of a concept”—an intentional celebration of proportions
and surface language that will evolve in subsequent designs.
For now, though, Mazda is focusing strictly on surface language,
and in the case of Nagare, that language is all about “flow.”
“The motion of the vehicle is defined by, and evident in, the texture of its interior and exterior surfaces,” explained von Holzhausen,
who led the U.S.-based Nagare design team. As such, Nagare’s exterior and interior surfaces combine light and shadow to convey a
feeling of motion even when the car is still. The same surface language plays throughout the vehicle’s exterior and interior lines.
Like all Mazda products, Nagare embodies the soul of a sports car.
Its shape is sleek and aerodynamically efficient. Wheels are posi-
tioned at the far corners of the envelope for quick steering
response and agile maneuverability.
The vehicle’s interior seats four and is accessed by two doublelength doors that hinge forward and up like the wings of a butterfly. The driver’s seat is centrally located for optimum control and
visibility, while the rear compartment serves as a wrap-around
lounge that offers relaxed accommodations for three passengers.
Nagare is the first of a series of design concepts—some closer
to actual production vehicles than others—that Mazda will showcase this global auto show season, which includes Detroit, Geneva, and Tokyo. ■
FUELFEEDBACK
A
h, these are the times that Mazda
enthusiasts live for—a new year, an
all-new crossover SUV in the lineup
(the 2007 CX-9), and all the thrills that go
along with a new model launch. This
issue, we head straight to where the
excitement is…the CX-9—and bring you
an in-depth comparison of Mazda’s new
crossover SUV to two of its top
competitors and a look at the CX-9
accessories lineup. There are plenty of
non–CX-9 topics on the table, too, such
as a heartwarming tale about a team of
Mazda professionals who went the extra
mile to make sure a young U.S. Marine on
temporary leave received one of the first
MAZDASPEED3s off the production line.
Between that story and our inside front
cover feature—courtesy of $100
American Express Gift Cheque winner Bill
Ianelli—it’s easy to see just how deep the
passion to please runs through this
company. Enjoy!
2 | MAZDA FUEL |
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2007
Great issue (September/October 2006). I love
how FUEL is showing sales teams that Mazda is
the soul of a sports car at every level…the video
game, the miles and miles of style, showing us
how our customers are customizing their cars
and how much they love the Mazda lineup!
Josh Bell
Sales Consultant
Horizon Mazda, Roseburg, OR
I find Mazda FUEL very helpful when it
comes to selling to the next generation of
Mazda “Zoom-Zoomers.” The performance articles are the best source of information about
how Mazda is out-performing the competition.
Keep up the good work, and thank you for
helping me be successful in the industry.
Jon Johnson
Sales Consultant
Jay Mazda, Columbus, GA
We want to hear from you, too. Send us
your comments and suggestions on the enclosed reply card. ■
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page 3
SPOTLIGHT
Welcome
Home!
A team of Mazda
professionals goes to
great lengths to deliver
one of the first
2007 MAZDASPEED3
vehicles to a Marine
on temporary leave.
Photos by Mike Brice
With just a few days before being redeployed, U.S. Marine Jason Dean couldn't wait to
get behind the wheel of his new MAZDASPEED3
W
hen a U.S. Marine returns from overseas duty, it’s toon buddies in the Middle East, and they were all very jealous.”
always a happy homecoming. To be welcomed by your
Despite the odds, Kevin Dean dropped off Jason’s deposit at
family—as well as your dream car—makes it all the Brown Mazda in Toledo, OH, for a MAZDASPEED3 in Black
more memorable. That was certainly the case last November for Mica. After hearing about the situation, Scott Fisher, Brown
Mazda’s Internet Sales Manager and an ex-Marine, said there
20-year-old Jason Dean.
Over the course of serving 18 months in the Middle East with was a chance the dealership could get Jason’s car before he got
home. With the help of
the U.S. Marines, Jason
Sales Manager Dan Bussell,
made plans to buy a new
the two set out to make it
car during his visit home to
happen.
Perrysburg, OH, in Novem“Our dealership had a
ber. Even though he would
MAZDASPEED3 on order,
be leaving again almost
but it wasn’t due to be built
right away, Jason wanted
until early November, which
to enjoy his car during his
meant another three or
short visit—as well as every
four months before delivery
time he was able to come
to our showroom,” exhome during his next four
plained Bussell. “That obviyears of service thereafter.
ously wouldn’t work for this
While still overseas, Jacustomer, who wanted the
son spent hours researchcar in his driveway when his
ing various models online
son got home the second
to select just the right car.
week of November. We
He then enlisted the help
promised to do whatever
of his dad, Kevin Dean, to
we could to get this vehicle
narrow down his search.
in time.”
“Basically, I was Jason’s
Bussell immediately eneyes and went to the varilisted the help of Mazda
ous dealerships to check On hand for the big delivery are (front, from left) Jason Dean, Brown Mazda
out the ones he liked,” Sales Manager Dan Bussell, and Scott Fisher, Internet Sales Manager. Behind District Operations Manager
Mark Moore to find a
said Kevin. “I e-mailed him them is Dean's family.
MAZDASPEED3 with Japictures of all the cars—except for the 2007 MAZDASPEED3, because it wasn’t out yet. Of son’s exact specifications and trade it for another vehicle from
course, that’s the one he wanted—even though it would be the Brown Mazda’s on-order inventory. Then, Mazda Sales Planning
most difficult one to get.”
Manager Mark Micheltree reprioritized the existing distribution
Since the MAZDASPEED3 had just launched in North Ameri- plans and finalized the logistics that would get this car to Brown
ca, the chances of getting Jason the model he wanted in time Mazda in time for Jason’s homecoming.
for his homecoming were pretty slim. Nevertheless, he decided
Thanks to the hard work of the entire Mazda team, the
that’s the car he wanted.
MAZDASPEED3 was delivered at Brown Mazda with two weeks
“Jason was so excited about this car—he was going to get it no to spare—and this U.S. Marine received a homecoming he’ll
matter what,” said Kevin. “He even showed photos to all his pla- not soon forget. ■
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2007
| MAZDA FUEL
| 3
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page 4
TOP 25
PITROW
RANKING DEALERS
PARTS SALES (YTD THROUGH NOVEMBER 2006)
Mazda
Introduces
a New Full
Circle Service
Process Stepby-Step Guide
RANK DEALER NAME
CITY
STATE
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
MARIETTA
AUSTIN
ARLINGTON
LONGWOOD
IRVING
TRUSSVILLE
FT. LAUDERDALE
MIAMI
NEW CASTLE
GILBERT
PHILADELPHIA
VAN NUYS
MINNETONKA
PORTLAND
ATLANTA
RICHMOND
SAN JOSE
WAYNE
SAN DIEGO
WANTAGH
WILLOW GROVE
MIAMI GARDENS
TULSA
CHARLOTTE
LAS VEGAS
GA
TX
VA
FL
TX
AL
FL
FL
DE
AZ
PA
CA
MN
OR
GA
VA
CA
NJ
CA
NY
PA
FL
OK
NC
NV
JIM ELLIS MAZDA OF MARIETTA
ROGER BEASLEY MAZDA CENTRAL
ROSENTHAL MAZDA - ARLINGTON
CORY FAIRBANKS MAZDA
FREEMAN MAZDA
TRUSSVILLE MAZDA
GUNTHER MAZDA
OCEAN MAZDA
NUCAR MAZDA
BERGE MAZDA
FAULKNER MAZDA
GALPIN MAZDA
MORRIES MAZDA
RON TONKIN MAZDA
JIM ELLIS MAZDA OF CHAMBLEE
WHITTEN BROS. MAZDA
OAK TREE MAZDA
WAYNE MAZDA
JOHN HINE MAZDA
WANTAGH MAZDA
MARTY SUSSMAN MAZDA
LEHMAN MAZDA
NELSON MAZDA
MONTGOMERY MAZDA
PEOPLE'S MAZDA
LABOR SALES (YTD THROUGH NOVEMBER 2006)
I
f your dealership is using the Full Circle Service process consistently, it’s turning
every service visit into an opportunity to build trusting relationships with
customers. Over time, this leads to increased parts and service sales, as well as
improved customer satisfaction and loyalty.
However, if your process isn’t consistent—or you have staff members who are
inexperienced with effectively using the Full Circle Service process—your dealership may be missing out on the full benefits of this initiative.
Thanks to the new Full Circle Service Walkaround Step-by-Step Guide, Mazda
dealerships now have extra support to refocus their efforts on performing complete Full Circle Service inspections on every vehicle, every time. This guide offers
a variety of components, including:
• Walkaround Step-by-Step Flow Chart, which identifies the vital points of a
thorough Full Circle inspection
• Follow-Up Scripts for Service Consultants and Service Managers, which
provide effective dialogue to be used when following up with customers on inspection items
• Full Circle Process Flow Chart, a simple chart that helps Service Advisors
“walk” customers through the Full Circle inspection and repair process
• Full Circle Service Report Card, which helps build a relationship of trust
between the customer and Service Advisor
• DVD, which highlights each section of the Mazda Professional Selling Skills
Workshop
• Full Circle Service Walkaround Reservation Script, a word track that assists
Service Appointment Coordinators in scheduling service appointments and
capturing necessary information
• Walkaround Coach’s Clipboard, which helps Service Managers review
Service Advisors’ performance and identify areas that may need improvement,
training, or coaching
“These tools were developed to help dealers increase their consistency with the
Full Circle process and ensure that every vehicle receives an inspection on every visit,” explains Wenslow De La Mora, Western Region Service and Parts Manager.
“In some dealerships, the Service Managers or Service Consultants may be relatively new, and they may not be totally familiar with the Full Circle Service
process,” he adds. “These tools give them a quick refresher course on utilizing
the program effectively and consistently. So even if someone is just joining the
dealership, they should be able to use this guide to get up to speed on the
process—and know everything they need to perform an effective Full Circle Service inspection.”
Watch for this helpful guide to be delivered soon, then put it to good use in your
dealership’s service department. ■
4 | MAZDA FUEL |
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2007
RANK DEALER NAME
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
CITY
STATE
ROSENTHAL MAZDA - ARLINGTON ARLINGTON
VA
ROGER BEASLEY MAZDA CENTRAL AUSTIN
TX
MORRIES MAZDA
MINNETONKA
MN
JIM ELLIS MAZDA OF MARIETTA
MARIETTA
GA
ROSENTHAL MAZDA
VIENNA
VA
JOHN HINE MAZDA
SAN DIEGO
CA
JEFF HAAS MAZDA
HOUSTON
TX
Salowe
BROWN'S FAIRFAX MAZDAPhoto by Warren
FAIRFAX
VA
GUNTHER MAZDA
FT. LAUDERDALE FL
WALSER BURNSVILLE MAZDA
BURNSVILLE
MN
UNIVERSITY MAZDA
SEATTLE
WA
OAK TREE MAZDA
SAN JOSE
CA
GALPIN MAZDA
VAN NUYS
CA
128 MAZDA
WAKEFIELD
MA
MAZDA GALLERY
NORWOOD
MA
ALMADEN MAZDA
SAN JOSE
CA
JOHN KOONS MAZDA
MARLOW HEIGHTS MD
CORY FAIRBANKS MAZDA
LONGWOOD
FL
BROWN'S ALEXANDRIA MAZDA
ALEXANDRIA
VA
JIM ELLIS MAZDA OF CHAMBLEE
ATLANTA
GA
DELRAY MAZDA
DELRAY BEACH
FL
FAULKNER MAZDA
PHILADELPHIA
PA
MAZDA SOUTH
AUSTIN
TX
NORTH PENN MAZDA
COLMAR
PA
IRA MAZDA
DANVERS
MA
FPO
CARE SERVICE INDEX (ROLLING 3 MONTHS THROUGH NOVEMBER 2006)
RANK DEALER NAME
CITY
ST.
1T
1T
1T
1T
1T
1T
1T
2
3
4
5T
5T
6
7
8T
8T
9
10
11T
11T
12
13
14
15
16
BISMARCK
HAMMOND
PARKERSBURG
JANESVILLE
LUFKIN
PRESCOTT
SCOTTSBLUFF
KANSAS CITY
MOORESVILLE
MEDFORD
MONROE
INDIANA
LAKEWOOD
WILLIAMSPORT
DANVILLE
TRAVERSE CITY
TYLER
NASHUA
FREMONT
BUFORD
FREEHOLD
HUNTSVILLE
FLOWOOD
BREMERTON
ST. CLOUD
ND 100.00
LA 100.00
WV 100.00
WI 100.00
TX 100.00
AZ 100.00
NE 100.00
MO 99.60
NC 99.50
OR 99.40
MI 98.50
PA 98.50
CO 98.20
PA 97.90
VA 97.80
MI 97.80
TX 97.70
NH 97.60
NE 97.50
GA 97.50
NJ 97.20
AL 97.00
MS 96.80
WA 96.70
MN 96.50
WILHELM MAZDA BISMARCK
BILL HOOD MAZDA
LARRY SIMMONS MAZDA
EVERHART - O'LEARY MAZDA
MERCER MAZDA
GALPIN MAZDA
REGANIS MAZDA
BOB SIGHT MAZDA
DONALD CRAIG MAZDA
CRATER LAKE MAZDA
RALPH THAYER MAZDA
COLONIAL MAZDA
MAZDA OF LAKEWOOD
MURRAY MAZDA
ROBERT WOODALL MAZDA
GRAND TRAVERSE MAZDA
MIKE PILE MAZDA
TULLEY MAZDA
SID DILLON MAZDA
SUTHERLIN MAZDA
IRWIN MAZDA
JEFF SIKES MAZDA
HOWARD WILSON MAZDA
PARR MAZDA
EICH MAZDA
SCORE
T = Tie
Results based on financial statement data submitted to MNAO as of Dec. 23, 2006.
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page 5
PITROW
Best
Practices
Overcome the Technician crunch with
creative recruiting.
T
alk to Mazda Service Managers about
recruiting new Service Technicians,
and you’ll likely hear about the
national shortage of qualified labor and the
intense competition between companies
trying to hire them. Despite these
challenges, Mazda remains committed to its
dealers’ success and actively works to
identify effective ways to recruit new Service
Technicians.
During a recent survey of Service Managers from multiple dealerships, MNAO’s
Technical Training department identified
several methods of successful recruiting,
as follows.
Word of Mouth
Most Service Managers agreed that
word-of-mouth recruiting is one of the best
ways to find new Technicians—especially if
the candidates know the Service Manager
runs a quality service department and treats
Technicians fairly.
Advertise in the Parts/Wholesale
Department
Bob Hoffman, Director of Fixed Operations at Long Beach Mazda in Long Beach,
CA, uses another successful tool. He creates
a simple flyer describing the open service
positions and the respective pay ranges,
then places the flyers in a prominent place
on the parts and wholesale counter to attract the attention of visiting Technicians
from other service centers and independent
garages. He also creates a small, business
card–sized flyer that Technicians can pass
out to co-workers interested in making a
move. Hoffman says this approach has not
only worked well for hiring Technicians, it
has helped him bring several Service
Cashiers on board, as well.
Technician Referrals
Many Service Managers offer their Technicians a referral fee—or “finder’s fee”—
for recommending qualified candidates to
the dealership for consideration.
Offer a Signing Bonus
Some Service Managers pay experienced
Technicians a signing bonus (up to $1,000)
to help them fill open positions.
Develop Relationships
with Local Schools
When seeking candidates for entry-level
Technician positions, many Service Managers rely on their direct relationships with
nearby community colleges and vocational
schools—calling on them personally when
they have service openings.
Use Existing Mazda Recruiting
Materials
Smart Service Managers also take advantage of the many resources available
through MNAO’s Technical Training department. The department team recently completed a new brochure that’s specifically designed to help Service Managers in their recruiting efforts. This tool specifically targets
high school students, stating that if they’re
into performance, they could find a welcome home at Mazda. The brochure also
differentiates Mazda from other brands,
touting the innovative technology at work
in Mazda’s high-performance, 2.3-liter direct injection turbocharged engine and the
high-revving RENESIS rotary engine.
To order copies of the brochure, visit
Mazda’s MStore through the Mazda Dealer
Extranet, MXConnect—from Business Applications, click MStore—and request part
number 999-95-4621-06. ■
A Race for the Title
Regional Master Technician
finalists move on.
O
n November 4, regional semi-finalists in the Mazda North
American Master Technician of the Year competition put
their technical skills to the test, as they competed to move
on to the national competition. In a race against time—and each
other—these service professionals attempted to diagnose and
repair identically bugged MAZDA6 vehicles. Congratulations to
the following Master Techs who will compete in the North
America Master Technician Competition on April 8, 2007:
To help Mazda dealers recruit Service Technicians,
MNAO Technical Training offers a number of support
materials, such as this new brochure, which details
the advantages of a career with Mazda.
Western Region
Midwest Region
Danny Lozano, Carson City Mazda Steve Gillen, Liberty Mazda
Matt Smith, Bob Penkhus Mazda
Donald Lowman, Sierra Mazda
Gulf Region
Ryan Cilek, Premier Mazda
Nhan Le, Hollingsworth Mazda
Southeast Region
Mark Wilhelm, Boniface-Hiers Mazda
Peter Mack, Ed Morse Mazda
Northeast Region
David Duff, Malloy Mazda
Philip Ruhl, Gaithersburg Mazda
Mazda Motor de Mexico
Raúl Jesús May Concha, Mazda Sureste
Manuel Amaya Santamaría, Mazda Picacho
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2007
| MAZDA FUEL
| 5
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page 6
FRONTLINE
ONTHEMOVE
Mazda’s California Port
Heads South
Save the Date
2007 Mazda National
Dealer Meeting
Mark your calendars now
for the 2007 Mazda National
Dealer Meeting
October 17-19, 2007
Denver, CO
With new operations at Port National City, Mazda expects dealers in California, Nevada,
Arizona, and New Mexico will experience improved trucking performance.
TOP 25
RANKING DEALERS
SALES VOLUME (YTD THROUGH NOVEMBER 2006)
RANK DEALER NAME
CITY, STATE
1
WAYNE MAZDA
WAYNE, NJ
2
CORY FAIRBANKS MAZDA
LONGWOOD, FL
3
GALPIN MAZDA
VAN NUYS, CA
4
MAZDA SOUTH
AUSTIN, TX
5
ROGER BEASLEY MAZDA CENTRAL AUSTIN, TX
6
GUNTHER MAZDA
FT. LAUDERDALE, FL
7
NORCO MAZDA
NORCO, CA
8
WALSER BURNSVILLE MAZDA
BURNSVILLE, MN
9
JIM ELLIS MAZDA OF MARIETTA
MARIETTA, GA
10
PALM BEACH MAZDA
WEST PALM BEACH, FL
11
MAZDA KNOXVILLE
KNOXVILLE, TN
12
BROWNING MAZDA
CERRITOS, CA
13
MORRIES MAZDA
MINNETONKA, MN
14
D DAHLE MAZDA OF MURRAY
MURRAY, UT
15
BROWN'S FAIRFAX MAZDA
FAIRFAX, VA
16
PUENTE HILLS MAZDA
CITY OF INDUSTRY, CA
17
SUTHERLIN MAZDA
BUFORD, GA
18
SUBURBAN MAZDA OF TROY
TROY, MI
19
KINGS MAZDA
CINCINNATI, OH
20
CRYSTAL MAZDA
GREENBROOK, NJ
21
OAK TREE MAZDA
SAN JOSE, CA
22
NELSON MAZDA
TULSA, OK
23T
TUSTIN MAZDA
TUSTIN, CA
23T
EL DORADO MAZDA
MCKINNEY, TX
24
INGRAM PARK MAZDA
SAN ANTONIO, TX
T = Tie
Results based on financial statement data submitted to MNAO
as of December 4, 2006.
6 | MAZDA FUEL |
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2007
2006
Strategic relocation to San Diego area promises
improved vehicle delivery to Mazda dealers in
the Gulf and Western Regions.
A
fter more than a quarter century in Port Hueneme, CA, Mazda’s Californiabased port operations is relocating 150 miles south to Port National City
near San Diego, CA. The move, which took place over a two-month period
at the end of last year, coincided with the end of Mazda’s lease agreement in Port
Hueneme. Tim Manning, the National Port Operations Manager for Mazda in
North America, indicates that his team looked at three other facilities between the
San Francisco Bay area and San Diego before selecting Port National City.
The port contractor in National City will be Pasha Automotive Services, a longtime operator in National City with existing automotive customers, including
Honda, Volkswagen, and Audi. The new port location is expected to provide
increased benefits to both Western Region and Gulf Region Mazda dealers. “We
are expecting that dealers in the Gulf Region will see a several-day improvement
in rail transit for import units due to increased rail capacity at the new port,”
Manning explains. “We also expect many Western Region dealers—primarily
those located in California, Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico—will see improved
trucking performance out of National City.”
The change of ports will affect all Japanese-built Mazda vehicles (but not
MAZDA6, Tribute, and B-Series trucks). Counting all imports and the domestically
produced vehicles heading to Hawaii each month, the new Port National City
operation is expected to handle from 85,000 to 100,000 Mazda units per year.
The move to National City means that Pasha will handle all vehicle processing,
accessorization, and rail-loading responsibilities. “We were very impressed with
the Pasha facility and processes, their capacity to handle units that are railed to
Texas, and their technical ability and space capacity for port-installed accessories
(PIOs),” Manning says.
Pasha has extensive resources to draw on to support the increase in Mazda business. “In our evaluations we realized that the Pasha automotive group was the
best fit for Mazda and will best serve the needs of our dealers,” Manning adds.
“The Pasha team already handles several hundred thousand vehicles a year with
their existing automotive customers, and their vast experience and operational
efficiencies will support our goal of delivering Mazda vehicles to our dealers quickly and with great quality.” ■
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page 7
GRILLETOGRILLE
Built to Win
Visuals:
CX-9 exterior, interior, and cargo room vs. Pilot and
Highlander (2WD models with 3rd row seat)
Section:
GRILLE-TO-GRILLE
Built to Win
The new 2007 CX-9 was designed to go
wheel-to-wheel with the competition—
and come out ahead. Here’s how Mazda’s
SUV does it.
The new
2007 CX-9 was
designed to go
wheel-to-wheel
with the
competition—
and come out
ahead. Here’s
how Mazda’s
crossover SUV
does it.
W
hen Mazda designers created the CX-9, they committed to building a
new kind of SUV—a vehicle with the capabilities of a traditional SUV
and the advanced styling of a crossover. With 2-wheel-drive versions
of the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander targeted as the major competitors,
Mazda made sure the CX-9 was equipped to beat them not only in styling and
driving dynamics, but also in creature comforts and ease of use.
“Most crossover SUVs compromise either styling or sporty driving characteristics to gain versatility,” says Chris Hill, Vehicle Line Manager for the new
CX-9. “We went after not compromising versatility, and we also remained true
to Mazda’s DNA with a Zoom-Zoom driving experience. The CX-9 proves you
can be emotionally rewarded without compromising best-in-class versatility.”
Here are some of the CX-9’s key advantages in exterior, interior, and cargo
room as compared to the Pilot and Highlander.
MAZDA CX-9 vs. HONDA PILOT EX 2WD
Equipped with a V6 engine, a choice of 2- or 4-wheel drive, and cloth or
leather seating, the Pilot is now in its fifth model year. Honda’s largest SUV enjoys a loyal following due to the company’s reputation for quality and value. But
unlike the CX-9, the Pilot never took any chances in achieving expressive curb
appeal.
EXTERIOR
Mazda CX-9 has a long 113.2-inch wheelbase for improved legroom, thirdrow seat ingress and egress, and superior ride quality compared to the Pilot’s
106.3-inch wheelbase.
The CX-9 has a longer rear overhang (44.6 in. vs. 43.9 in. for the Pilot) that
expands cargo room capacity.
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2007
| MAZDA FUEL
| 7
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page 8
GRILLETOGRILLE
The finely crafted CX-9 offers
a sophisticated interior
appointed with an available
DVD Navigation System, Hands
Free Bluetooth Link, Backup
Camera, Rear Entertainment
System and Bose® Stereo with
5.1 Surround Sound.
HONDA PILOT
Significantly larger 20-inch wheels and 245/50R20 tires vs. smaller 16-inch wheels and 235/70R16 tires on the Pilot add to the
Mazda’s already expressive styling.
INTERIOR
The CX-9 driver’s seat has a greater range of adjustment to fit drivers of different sizes. The slide range is 10.24 in. vs. 9.53 in. for the
Pilot, and the lift range is 2.17 in. vs. 1.57 in. for the Pilot.
The tilt range for the CX-9’s steering wheel is 1.77 in. vs. 1.42 in.
for the Pilot. In addition, the CX-9’s steering wheel telescopes 2 full
inches, a feature the Pilot does not offer.
The CX-9 is designed to accommodate a wide range of driver
body types—from under 4 ft. 9 in. to nearly 6 ft. 7 in. tall. In comparison, the Pilot accommodates drivers from about 4 ft. 11 in. to 6
ft. 5 in.
Designers gave the CX-9 second-row seat a large amount of
legroom, comfortable ergonomics, and outstanding accessibility. It
offers 39.8 inches of legroom and 4.6 inches of seat knee clearance
compared to 37.4 inches of legroom and just 3.0 inches of seat
knee clearance for the Pilot.
Mazda CX-9 offers 4.72 inches of second-row seat slide range—
a feature the Pilot doesn’t offer.
A flat side sill on the CX-9 makes it easy for passengers to slide
their feet out of the vehicle, whereas the Pilot has a sill height of
0.83 inches. The Mazda’s side sills are also 2.5 in. narrower and covered by the door to help keep pant legs clean when entering or exiting the vehicle.
The CX-9 rear doors open 72 degrees for easy access to the second-row seat. The Pilot’s rear doors open only 61 degrees, making
it particularly difficult to install a child-safety seat.
8 | MAZDA FUEL |
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2007
Maximum legroom for the CX-9 third-row seat is 37.0 inches
compared to 31.2 inches in the Pilot.
The CX-9 second-row seat slides a full 12 inches to ease ingress
and egress for third-row passengers, compared to just 9.9 inches on
the Pilot. The CX-9’s walk-in lever, which moves the second seat forward to access the back seat, is also easier to use.
CARGO ROOM
CX-9 offers more cargo room than the Pilot—17.2 cu. ft. vs. 16.3
cu. ft. behind the third-row seat. The second-row seat is simple to
fold, whereas in the Pilot the head restraints must first be removed.
Under-floor storage is larger in the CX-9—1.7 cu. ft. vs. 1.34 cu.
ft. in the Pilot.
The CX-9 has a wide covered center armrest box and two cup
holders in the second row, compared to only an open storage bin
and two covered cup holders for the Pilot.
TOYOTA
HIGHLANDER
MAZDA CX-9 vs. TOYOTA HIGHLANDER V6 2WD
Available with either 4-cylinder or V6 power, and either 2- or 3row seating, the Highlander is Toyota’s midline SUV. Its conservative
design doesn’t approach the CX-9’s expressive styling, and its smaller size likewise compromises versatility. While the Mazda CX-9 is allnew, the Highlander is now in its seventh model year.
EXTERIOR
Compared to the Toyota’s 106.9-inch wheelbase, the Mazda
CX-9’s longer 113.2-inch wheelbase ensures greater legroom, thirdrow seating access, and enhanced ride quality.
The CX-9’s longer rear overhang—44.6 in. vs. 41.4 in. for the
Highlander—expands cargo room capacity.
Significantly larger 20-inch wheels and 245/50R20 tires make the
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page 9
GRILLETOGRILLE
With flexible seating
options, comfortable
ergonomics, and plenty
of room for seven adult
passengers, the CX-9
offers several interior
advantages over the
Honda Pilot and
Toyota Highlander.
CX-9 look more substantial and stylish than the Highlander with its
smaller 17-inch wheels and 225/65R17 tires.
INTERIOR
The CX-9 driver’s seat has a greater range of adjustment to fit drivers of different sizes. Its slide range is 10.24 in. vs. 9.45 in. for the
Highlander, while its lift range is 2.17 in. vs. 1.69 in.
Tilt range for the CX-9 steering wheel is 1.77 in. vs. only 1.1 in.
for the Highlander. The Mazda’s steering wheel adjusts 2 inches
telescopically, but the Toyota doesn’t offer this feature.
Mazda designed the CX-9 to accommodate a wide range of driver body types—from under 4 ft. 9 in. to nearly 6 ft. 7 in. tall. In
comparison the Highlander fits drivers from about 4 ft. 10 in. to 6
ft. 4 in.
The CX-9 has an inch-higher driver’s “eye point” than the Highlander (54.4 in. vs. 53.3 in.) for improved visibility and confidence.
Designers gave the CX-9 second-row seat a large amount of
legroom, comfortable ergonomics, and outstanding accessibility. It
offers 39.8 inches of legroom and 4.6 inches of seat knee clearance
vs. the Highlander’s 36.4 inches of legroom and 4.3 inches of seat
knee clearance.
A flat side sill makes it easy for second-row passengers to slide
their feet out of the CX-9. In contrast, Highlander has a sill height
of 1.3 inches. The Mazda side sills are also 1.6 in. narrower and covered by the door to help keep pant legs clean.
The Mazda rear doors open 72 degrees for easy access to the second-row seat, whereas the Highlander’s rear doors open only 65
degrees.
Maximum legroom for the CX-9 third-row seat is 37.0 inches
compared to 33.3 inches in the Highlander.
The CX-9 second-row seat slides a full 12 inches to ease ingress and
egress for third-row passengers, compared to just 10 inches on the
Highlander. Third-row passengers may also enter either side of the
CX-9, whereas only the Highlander’s right-side second-row seat slides.
CARGO ROOM
CX-9 offers much more cargo room than the Highlander—17.2
cu. ft. vs. 10.5 cu. ft. behind the third-row seat and 48.4 cu. ft. vs.
39.7 cu. ft. behind the second-row seat.
Under-floor storage is much larger in the CX-9 (1.7 cu. ft. vs. 0.29
cu. ft. in the Highlander).
The CX-9 has a wide covered center armrest box and two
cup holders, compared to only two covered cup holders for
the Highlander. ■
Grille to Grille at a Glance
2007 Mazda
CX-9
2007 Honda
Pilot EX 2WD
2007 Toyota
Highlander
V6 2WD
Engine
Horsepower
(SAE net @ rpm)
3.5L DOHC 24V V6
263 @ 6250
3.5L SOHC 24V V6
244 @ 5750
3.3L DOHC 24V V6
215 @ 5600
Torque
(SAE net lb-ft @ rpm)
249 @ 4500
240 @ 4500
222 @ 3600
Standard
Transmission
6-Speed DualMode Automatic
Overdrive
5-Speed DualMode Automatic
Overdrive
5-Speed
Automatic
Overdrive
Wheelbase (in.)
113.2
106.3
106.9
Rear Overhang (in.)
44.6
43.9
41.4
Standard Wheels (in.)
18
16
17
Tires
245/60R18
235/70R16
225/65R17
Driver’s Seat
Slide Range (in.)
10.24
9.53
9.45
Driver’s Seat
Lift Range (in.)
2.17
1.57
1.69
Steering Wheel
Tilt Range (in.)
1.77
1.42
1.1
Steering Wheel
Telescopes (in.)
2
NO
NO
Second-Row
Legroom (in.)
39.8
37.4
36.4
Second-Row Seat
Knee Clearance (in.)
4.6
3.0
4.3
Sliding Second-Row
Seat Adjustability (in.)
12
9.9
10
Third-Row
Legroom (in.)
37.0
31.2
33.3
Cargo Room Behind
17.2
Third-Row Seat (cu. ft.)
16.3
10.5
Rear Doors Access
Opening (degrees)
61
65
72
NO = Not Offered
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2007
| MAZDA FUEL
| 9
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page 10
Photo by Juha Leivonen
FASTTRACK
SpeedSource RX-8s
Target Grand-Am GT Title
After a year of development, the
popular white Mazda racers are set
to compete at Daytona and a dozen
other races in 2007.
S
peedSource Race Engineering, the Florida purveyor of Mazda
rotary racing speed, is moving fully into the prestigious
Grand-Am GT class for 2007. Owner Sylvain Tremblay and
crew chief David Haskell will campaign a pair of tube-frame RX-8s
against a competitive field that includes BMW, Infiniti, Pontiac,
and Porsche.
With two Grand-Am Cup ST championships already to its credit
in production RX-8s, SpeedSource spent much of the 2006 season
developing the new racecar, which features a potent three-rotor
20B engine, a lightweight steel frame, carbon-fiber aerodynamic
body components, and other technologies. Developing 420 horsepower and weighing just 2,280 pounds, the car enjoyed a fantastic
debut last year by leading its class for 10 hours in the Rolex 24 at
The #70 Grand-Am GT RX-8 is one of three SpeedSource RX-8s
that are scheduled to race in the 2007 Rolex 24 in late January.
Daytona. Tremblay and Haskell were a serious threat in other races
and nearly won the Homestead, FL, round.
Tremblay says the RX-8’s basic DNA is a huge help in developing
a successful racer. For instance, aerodynamics play a critical role in
all racing classes. “The RX-8 has a smaller frontal area, and the
windshield rake helps straight-line speed tremendously,” he reports.
“Its four-door configuration means a longer wheelbase, which also
makes it a better racecar.”
Three SpeedSource GT RX-8s will compete at the 2007 Rolex 24 on
January 27-28, and two will contest all 13 Grand-Am events through
September. Tremblay loves the support he receives from Mazda fans.
“We get hundreds of e-mails,” he says. “We are keepers of the flame
for rotary engineering, and we’re glad to be part of it.” ■
Photo by Juha Leivonen
Mazda Raceway Laguna
Seca 2007 Race Schedule
Mazda’s home track is quickly filling its calendar with an array
of world-class road races that are sure to enhance its rich history.
Here’s what’s on tap for 2007 at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca:
Mazda
May 18-20
U.S. Sports Car Invitational
Featuring the Grand American Rolex Sports Car Series
Wisdom…
July 20-22
Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix
Featuring the MotoGP World Championship
When racers
make the cars,
the cars make
better racers.
August 17-19
Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races presented by Toyota
Featuring the Indy Roadsters
September 15-16
AMA Superbike Series
October 19-21
Monterey Sports Car Championships
Featuring the American Le Mans Series
For tickets, updates, and additional information, visit www.laguna-seca.com.
10 | MAZDA FUEL |
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2007
■
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page 11
FASTTRACK
One Fast MAZDASPEED3
NHRA driver Dee Karagiannis gets ready to launch
the world’s first MAZDASPEED3 drag racer.
After racing a Mazda RX-7 in 2006, drag racer Dee Karagiannis
now has his sights set on NHRA and NOPI championships
behind the wheel of his MAZDASPEED3.
T
he 2007 MAZDASPEED3 is one heck of a performance car, but drag racer
Dee Karagiannis is creating a special racing version with acceleration that is
truly outrageous. Set to debut this April in the NHRA Sport Compact class,
the Reactive Racing MAZDASPEED3 is a rear-wheel-drive racer that makes over
1,300 horsepower, gulps 2 1/2 gallons of methanol per run, and is targeted to rip the quarter mile in the six-second bracket at 200 mph.
Starting with a new 2007 MAZDASPEED3 5-door unibody, Tito Chassis removed the floor pan and constructed a new tubular space
frame to go inside. The powertrain was turned 90 degrees to drive the rear wheels instead of the front wheels, and with the help of
Bergenholtz Racing, the turbocharged 2.3-liter DISI engine was tuned to deliver its tremendous horsepower. Enormous racing slicks,
wheelie bars, and a rear wing will help the MAZDASPEED3 get down the strip.
Karagiannis, 30, raced an RX-7 in the NHRA All Motor class in 2006, but he first experienced the thrill of drag racing as a passenger
in a Barracuda racecar at age 12. “Ever since then I have loved the feeling of acceleration,” says the Maryland resident. “The RX-7 momentarily pulls 2.9 gs on takeoff. The 0-60 time is practically immeasurable, and in 4.7 seconds, you go almost 150 mph. It’s like jumping out of a plane.” And the MAZDASPEED3 should be quicker still.
Karagiannis anticipates testing his MAZDASPEED3 in February and hopes to win both NHRA and NOPI championships this year.
Good luck Dee! ■
GEARGLITZ
Mazda Goes Wild
at 2007 SEMA Show
Tricked-out cars and accessories
headline Mazda's exhibit.
T
here’s something about Las Vegas that brings out the glitz.
For example, last November at the 2006 Specialty Equipment
Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas, Mazda
showcased three modified versions of its all-new CX-7 crossover
SUV… “Adrenaline,” “Phobia,” and “Wickedly Red.”
Between these three showstoppers, more than 70 unique
MAZDASPEED Performance Accessories, and the release of the allnew 2007 MAZDASPEED Performance Accessories catalog, Mazda
lived up to its reputation as one of the most innovative brands on
the SEMA block.
“Each year, Mazda brings some of the best and most exciting
products to the aftermarket segment,” said Jack Stavana, Director
of Accessory Operations for MNAO. “To add to our already impressive product lineup, for 2007, we are also offering a cold air intake
system and coil-over suspension system for the MAZDASPEED3, as
well as forged aluminum wheels for the MAZDASPEED6.”
While Mazda’s extensive array of accessories—including performance exhaust systems, springs, struts, shock absorbers, stabilizer
bars, brake parts, and interior and exterior styling parts—wowed
SEMA spectators, it was the three modified CX-7s that ensured they
noticed the Mazda display in the first place. Here’s an overview:
CX-7 Adrenaline – Designed and built by Mazda
Design North America in
Irvine, CA, the Adrenaline
showcases Mazda’s commitment to performance, with
more than 300 horsepower
and a 6-speed manual transmission. Exterior attributes include new
styling front and rear, a clamshell front clip, wraparound rear spoiler, and an innovative rear glass design, plus new fenders and doors
for a wider overall stance. Inside, Adrenaline boasts fresh new colors and materials, including all-new audio and interior functions.
Troy Lee Designs Phobia CX-7 – Consider this CX-7 a piece of
art that just happens to also
be a vehicle. The exterior
features custom paint by
Troy Lee Designs, enhanced
by body modification, 20inch wheels, and special
window tinting. A modified
suspension, cross-drilled big
brake kit, and custom brake
fabrication builds upon the
CX-7’s already superior handling performance. Inside,
custom leather seats and
floor mats take the CX-7 to
new levels of creativity.
Wickedly Red CX-7 – The award-winning styling expertise of
Dave Green (DG Motorsports) meets the tailpipekicking CX-7 in this latest
addition to Mazda’s lineup
of hot vehicles. The immediate impact of the blistering
paint job is equally matched
by bold body styling. Large
tires with black rims round
out the exterior design,
while a stunning red suede
interior continues the excitement inside. ■
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2007
| MAZDA FUEL
| 11
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page 12
GEARGLITZ
Genuine
Mazda Accessories
CX-9 accessories lineup
amps up style and function
of Mazda's all-new
crossover SUV.
C
ustomization is a big draw for many Mazda owners, and Mazda continues to
wage an all-out effort to make sure its customers have plenty of Genuine
Mazda Accessories to choose from—no matter what vehicle they drive. The
same holds true for the 2007 CX-9, Mazda’s all-new seven-passenger crossover SUV.
Just in time for the launch of this much-anticipated new model, Mazda’s Accessory Operations and its Accessory Design Engineers have worked hand-in-hand
with leading aftermarket manufacturers to develop a full line of performance,
styling, and functional parts that meet Mazda’s high standards of fit and quality.
Taking a cue from recent successful
model launches, Mazda’s Accessory
Operations group began the accessories design process for the CX-9
while the model itself was still in design and development. The process
spanned a two-year period, with most
of the work taking place in a compressed timeframe just before vehicle
launch. In fact, last October, Mazda
engineers from Flat Rock, MI, traveled
to MNAO headquarters in Irvine, CA,
for an exhaustive four-day session
with accessories manufacturers and a
CX-9 prototype. Checking form, fit,
From water bottles to soccer balls, the CX-9's custom and function on nearly half a dozen
cargo net keep items secure in the rear cargo area. parts, these dedicated professionals finalized the specifications on custom
floor mats, a roof rack, trailer hitch, remote engine start, auto-dimming mirrors,
and a SIRIUS satellite radio.
“This intensive collaboration between Mazda engineers and the suppliers results in high-performing and high-quality parts,” explains Jeff Ferrell, Program
Manager, Mazda Accessory Operations.
The early planning and
last-minute attention to details paid off. Mazda will
offer more than 35 dealerinstalled accessories for the
CX-9 when it goes on sale
in January.
While many of the Genuine Mazda Accessories developed for the CX-9 are
standard fare—all-weather
floor mats, car cover, splash
guards, etc.—there are a
couple that are breaking
Form and function come together beautifully in a fully
new ground. One such item
accessorized Mazda CX-9.
is a rear view mirror that displays images captured by a backup camera system—a Mazda first. Traditionally,
such images are displayed on a car’s navigation system screen.
Check out the full list of CX-9 accessories, and then see your dealership’s Parts
Manager for more information. ■
12 | MAZDA FUEL |
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2007
An integrated roof rack with crossbars accommodates
other specialized accessories for bikes, skis, snowboards,
and luggage.
Genuine Mazda Accessories
for the 2007 CX-9
Audio/Visual/Electronic Items
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
iPod® Adapter
In-Dash 6-Disc CD/MP3 Changer
SIRIUS Satellite Radio Receiver Kit
Remote Engine Start
Rear View Mirror with Display for Backup
Camera System
Compass Auto-Dimming Mirror with HomeLink®
Compass Auto-Dimming Mirror
Door Mirror with Turn Indicator
Burglar Alarm
Interior Items
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Tonneau Retractable Interior Cargo Cover
Cargo Net
Cargo Mat, Carpeted
Carpet Floor Mats
All-Weather Floor Mats
Ash Tray
Cigarette Lighter (Front)
Windshield Sunscreen
Exterior Items
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Fog Lights
Lift Gate Garnish
Car Cover
Front Mask (Black Vinyl)
Hood Bug Deflector
Moonroof Wind Deflector
Splash Guards, Black
Roof Rack
Roof Rack Cross Bars
Trailer Hitch Receiver
Trailer Hitch Receiver Cover
Wheel Locks
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page 13
Safety Snapshot
2007 Mazda Vehicles vs. 2007 Competitive Vehicles
A
s much as Mazda buyers love their Zoom-Zoom, they also
pay close attention to safety. Naturally, a discussion about
current government crash test ratings can be an important
part of the sales presentation, yet Mazda knows how difficult it
can be keeping up with the constantly changing data. So, Mazda
FUEL has compiled this comprehensive chart of current safety
ratings for the 2007 Mazda lineup and their main competitors.
Check it out, and then share the good news with your customers!
And, don’t forget to highlight the standard and available features
that help Mazda drivers avoid accidents in the first place, such as
Dynamic Stability Control, Traction Control, Tire-Pressure Monitoring Systems, and Mazda’s precise steering and powerful brakes.
NHTSA
Vehicle
Frontal
Driver
Passenger
MAZDA3
Honda Civic
Nissan Sentra
****
*****
*****
****
*****
*****
MAZDA6
Toyota Camry
Honda Accord
Nissan Altima
*****
*****
*****
*****
2006 Mazda Tribute
Honda CR-V
Hyundai Santa Fe
IIHS
Side
Side
Without SAB With SAB
Rear
Rollover
***
****
*****
***
*****
****
****
****
****
G
G
N/T
P
N/T
N/T
N/T
G
N/T
*****
*****
*****
*****
****
*****
****
N/T
****
*****
****
N/T
*****
****
****
****
G
G
G
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
G
G
N/T
****
*****
****
****
*****
*****
*****
*****
*****
*****
*****
*****
***
****
****
A
G
N/T
P
N/T
N/T
G
G
N/T
Mazda B-Series RegCab 4x2
Mazda B-Series ExtCab 4x2
Nissan Frontier ExCab 4x2
Toyota Tacoma ExCab 4x2
*****
*****
***
*****
****
****
***
*****
*****
****
*****
*****
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
***
***
***
****
A
A
G
G
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
Mazda CX-7
Nissan Murano
BMW X3
Toyota RAV4
Acura RDX
*****
*****
N/T
*****
*****
*****
*****
N/T
****
*****
*****
*****
N/T
*****
*****
*****
*****
N/T
*****
*****
****
****
N/T
****
****
N/T
G
N/T
G
G
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
G
G
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Pontiac Solstice
Honda S2000
N/T
****
****
N/T
****
****
N/T
****
*****
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
*****
*****
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
Mazda RX-8
Nissan 350Z
Infiniti G35
****
N/T
N/T
*****
N/T
N/T
****
*****
N/T
****
N/T
N/T
*****
*****
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
N/T
MAZDA5
Key: N/T = Not Tested
Front
Frontal Offset
G = Good A = Acceptable M = Marginal P = Poor
EXPLANATION OF RATINGS
NHTSA: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, United
States Department of Transportation.
Star Ratings - Frontal Impact Test: Vehicle is crashed into a fixed barrier at 35 mph. The stars indicate a belted person’s chances of incurring a
serious injury in the event of a crash. A serious injury is defined as one requiring immediate hospitalization and may be life threatening. One star =
worst; Five stars = best.
the highest-rated vehicles (5 stars) when involved in a single-vehicle crash.
*****
****
***
**
*
= Has a risk of rollover of less than 10%
= Has a risk of rollover between 10% and 20%
= Has a risk of rollover between 20% and 30%
= Has a risk of rollover between 30% and 40%
= Has a risk of rollover greater than 40%
IIHS - Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
*****
****
***
**
*
= 10% or less chance of serious injury
= 11% - 20% chance of serious injury
= 21% - 35% chance of serious injury
= 36% - 45% chance of serious injury
= 46% or greater chance of serious injury
Star Ratings - Side Crash Test: A 3,015-pound barrier moving at 38.5
mph is crashed into the side of the passenger compartment of a stationary
vehicle. The stars indicate the chance of a life-threatening chest injury for a
belted driver, front seat passenger, and rear seat passenger.
*****
****
***
**
*
= 5% or less chance of serious injury
= 6%-10% chance of serious injury
= 11%-20% chance of serious injury
= 21%-25% chance of serious injury
= 26% or greater chance of serious injury
Star Ratings - Rollover Resistance: A vehicle’s rollover resistance rating
is an estimate of its risk of rolling over in a single-vehicle crash, not a prediction of the likelihood of a crash. As the following chart indicates, the lowest-rated vehicles (1 star) are at least four times more likely to roll over than
Frontal Offset Crash Rating: A vehicle moving at 40 mph is crashed
into a fixed barrier. Approximately one half of the front of the vehicle impacts the barrier, hence the term frontal offset. The rating is based on three
things: how well a vehicle’s front end manages the energy of the crash and
limits passenger compartment intrusion; injury risk to an average driver; and
performance of the vehicle’s seat belts and airbags. G = Good (best rating);
A = Acceptable; M = Marginal; P = Poor (worst rating).
Side Crash Rating: A moving deformable barrier with a front end that
simulates a pickup or SUV weighing 3,300 pounds and traveling at 31 mph
impacts perpendicularly into the driver’s side of the vehicle. Crash test dummies are seated in the driver’s seat and the rear passenger seat behind the
driver. The rating is based on three things: dummy injury measures, head
protection measures, and the performance of the vehicle’s structure/safety
cage. G = Good (best rating); A = Acceptable; M = Marginal; P = Poor
(worst rating).
Sources:
NHTSA Buying a Safer Car: www.safercar.gov
IIHS: www.highwaysafety.org
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2007
| MAZDA FUEL
| 13
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page 14
ONYOURMARK
SevenStock
Rocks On
Photo by Koji Yamaguchi
The world’s best “rotor-head”
festival celebrates its ninth year
in fantastic style at Mazda’s
North American headquarters.
I
ts inspiration was the famous 1969 Woodstock
music festival in New York, but the ninth annual
SevenStock festival was pure Zoom-Zoom culture.
Held on October 27-29, 2006, at the Mazda North
American Operations headquarters in Irvine, CA,
SevenStock9 combined all things rotary in a weekend
of spectacular car shows, Mazda racecar and product
demonstrations, bands, and charity fundraising for
the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, which included additional funds generated by Michael Garcia
from MNAO’s Technical Services department.
Estimated attendance of over 5,000—plus some
500 rotary-powered vehicles—made it the largest
“rotor-head” event in the world, with participants
and journalists arriving from across the U.S., Japan,
and Europe. “In fact, SevenStock9 was the largest
and most internationally attended event to date,” organizer Berny Herrera said afterwards.
SevenStock was relocated to Mazda’s main campus
from Mazda Research & Development to provide
more workable event space and to connect Mazda
employees and executives with Mazda customers. The
move also allowed Mazda employees to meet ALMS,
Grand-Am, NHRA, and SCCA race teams before the
SevenStock festival and to attend a special Fridaynight kart-racing challenge at nearby K1 Speed.
Saturday was the big day for the public, with highlights including a car show, racecar demonstrations,
and a presentation by Robert Davis, Mazda’s Senior
Vice President of Product Development and Quality.
Nobuhiro Yamamoto, Deputy Program Manager for
RX-8 and MX-5, and Sylvain Tremblay and David
Haskell of SpeedSource made additional presentations at an optional evening banquet where, as a
bonus, many souvenirs, including actual SpeedSource
body parts, were given away. “No other car company
does what we do,” reflected Kelvin Hiraishi, Director
of R&D Engineering, afterwards. “You just can’t buy
this kind of enthusiasm and support—it’s ingrained in
our culture.”
On Sunday, the party moved to California Speedway in Fontana, CA, where SevenStock guests and
the public got to drive Mazda vehicles in a special
Zoom-Zoom Live event. If you missed it, start making
plans for SevenStock10, set to be held around the
same time next fall at Mazda’s headquarters in Irvine.
With 2007 representing both the tenth year for
SevenStock and the 40th anniversary of the original
Cosmo rotary, you can bet it’s going to rock. Check
out www.sevenstock.org for more information. ■
Held for the first time at
MNAO headquarters in
Irvine, CA, SevenStock9
featured row upon row
of rotary-powered cars,
including racers from
Mazda-sponsored race
teams.
Get “Revved”
Graphic novel featuring Mazda RX-8 hits the newsstands.
T
he next time you pass a comic book store or newsstand, be sure to pick up a copy
of Revved: The Beginning, the first book of a new graphic novel series that features
the Mazda RX-8.
Published by Top Cow Productions, the “Revved” series features four heroic cars that
are infused with magical powers to support main character Jack James on a series of exciting and dangerous missions. In Revved: The Beginning, Jack, a disgraced former racecar driver, is forced to steal an RX-8 on display in a Las Vegas casino to clear his father’s
debt. However, events take a radical turn once Jack touches the RX-8 and starts having
visions of past and future events. Top Cow bills the book as “the four horsemen meet
the four hundred horsepower.”
To check out the first 10 pages of Revved: The Beginning, visit www.mazdausa.com/revved,
or purchase the complete book online at the Top Cow Web site: www.topcow.com. ■
14 | MAZDA FUEL |
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2007
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page 15
Mazda Powers Up in Puerto Rico
MNAO assumes direct support
of thriving island market.
F
or the past 33 years, independently owned Mazda
distributor Plaza Motors has successfully nurtured a huge
Mazda market in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
Those efforts have resulted in several notable results, including
an impressive 5.7% market share—a figure larger than
Mazda’s market share in the U.S. or Canada—and the
MAZDA3’s proud designation as the number-five-selling
vehicle in all of Puerto Rico.
In fact, Plaza Motors has a lot in common with Mazda regions and dealerships in the U.S. As a U.S. Commonwealth,
Puerto Rico uses U.S. currency and adheres to all of the same
federal laws that govern the U.S., including emission standards
and safety requirements. Therefore, Mazda vehicles on the island are based on U.S. specifications and are virtually identical
to those on American streets.
Sustaining a market as large as Puerto Rico’s, however, requires a good deal of support from Mazda.
Until recently, this support—including vehicle supply, volume
forecasting, parts, customer service, marketing materials, recall
assistance, and sales and technical training—came from Mazda
Corporate in Hiroshima, Japan.
On September 1, 2006, however, Mazda transferred this direct support responsibility to MNAO in Irvine, CA. This change
promises to deliver tremendous benefits to Plaza Motors.
“Two of the key benefits are increased attention and convenience,” explains Jim Sailer, MNAO Manager of Puerto Rico Operations. “The physical distance between Puerto Rico and Japan
makes it difficult for the Mazda Corporate team to maintain
constant communication with the Puerto Rican market. On the
other hand, we’re only three time zones apart and, therefore,
can provide more timely support.”
But closer geographic proximity is just the start.
When Mazda Corporate in Japan was overseeing this market,
it only had one staff member dedicated to Puerto Rico, and visits
to the island were made only twice a year. Now that MNAO is on
board, Plaza Motors can count on a two-person staff that is committed to visiting Puerto Rico at least once a month.
This new support role is equally beneficial for MNAO.
“Our relationship with Puerto Rico will definitely help increase MNAO parts and vehicle sales,” says Sailer. “Equally important, it will also expand the opportunity for MNAO employees to gain a better understanding of other markets and cultures. That knowledge and understanding can be used to more
effectively market to the significant Puerto Rican communities
in places like New York and Miami. What we learn from direct
involvement with Plaza Motors in Puerto Rico may also result in
the sharing of marketing and advertising materials between
the two markets and fresh insight about the Mazda brand itself. We are very optimistic about our new relationship with
Puerto Rico—and what it will mean long-term for Mazda business in the Americas.” ■
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2007
| MAZDA FUEL
| 15
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page 16
FINALSTRETCH
Detroit News named
Mazda's 2007 CX-7 its first-ever
"Crossover of the Year."
Vehicles equipped with Tire Pressure Monitoring
System (TPMS) feature this warning light graphic
on the instrument panel.
Be Tire Pressure Smart
New Web site promotes tire safety.
N
ow that colder weather is here, Mazda is joining the
Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers in urging
consumers to make sure they maintain proper tire
pressure on their vehicles. Since many new vehicles are
equipped with Tire-Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS),
it’s especially important to understand how these systems
work and their role in helping drivers maintain proper tire
pressure.
To support this effort, the Alliance has launched a new
Web site—www.checkmytires.com—for consumers to
learn about Tire-Pressure Monitoring Systems, check the
weather in their hometown, and take an interactive quiz to
learn about how temperature changes, safety, and fuel efficiency all play a role in maintaining proper tire pressure.
Currently, about 45 percent of all new vehicles sold in the
U.S. are equipped with TPMS, a figure that is expected to rise
to 70 percent by September 2007. By model year 2008, all
new vehicles will be equipped with the technology.
Mazda models that offer TPMS right now, as a standard or
available feature, include the MAZDA3, MAZDASPEED3,
MAZDA5, MX-5 Miata, RX-8, CX-7, CX-9, and B-Series Truck.
Check out this valuable Web site—and encourage your
customers to do the same. ■
All Mazda
Motorsports, All Day
I
t’s tough to make it to the racetrack when you’re busy
developing and marketing great vehicles, so Mazda’s racing
teams and cars came to MNAO headquarters in late October,
literally bringing the excitement home. Among those represented
at Mazda’s first-ever Motorsports Day were BK Motorsports (ALMS,
P2), Mathiasen (Champ Car Atlantic), Robert Davis Racing (SCCA
T3), SpeedSource (Rolex GT), Tindol (SPEED World Challenge), and
TriPoint (SPEED World Challenge). ■
Mazda MX-5 and
MAZDASPEED3 Named
Car and Driver “10Bests”
T
Csaba Csere (left), Editor-in-Chief, Car and Driver, and Jay
Amestoy, Vice President, Public and Government Affairs, MNAO
at the "10Best" award presentation for the Mazda MX-5
and MAZDASPEED3 at MNAO on December 5, 2006.
16 | MAZDA FUEL |
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2007
he 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata and 2007 MAZDASPEED3
have made Car and Driver magazine’s “10Best” list for
2007.
With the MAZDASPEED3 receiving this recognition in its inaugural year, it's the eighth year for the MX-5 Miata.
Now in its 25th year, the annual Car and Driver “10Best”
competition is composed of the magazine’s editors nominating
and then testing more than 50 vehicles on a road course consisting of twists and turns on less-than-perfect pavement. Each
car is judged based on value, how well it performs in its respective category, and whether it exhibits standout qualities, such as
styling or performance. ■
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:12 PM
Page C3
PSHAW MOTORS
MAZDAMANIA
SCENICROUTE
The Time of Your Life
E
Photo by roadsideamerica.com
ven though long case clocks—or
grandfather clocks—date back
several hundred years, their timeless
beauty and flawless timekeeping are still
appreciated in countless living rooms
across America today.
Still others aren’t kept indoors at all.
One impressive model proudly braves
the elements and serves as a welcome
beacon to visitors of Svoboda Industries’
shop for custom wood products, called
Gepetto’s Top of the Hill Shop. Although
the giant landmark—standing nearly 35
feet tall—isn’t a working grandfather
clock, it does tell the right time. Where
would one find this tower of time? ■
A. Kewaunee, WI
B. Alton, IL
C. Allen Park, MI
D. Clarksville, AR
See below for the answer.
FUEL Cryptogram Challenge
A B C D E F
3
G H
I
J
K L M N O P Q R S
17
A
––
3
10
T U V W X Y Z
7
E
–– –– ––
M A
A
–– –– –– –– ––
A
A
E
–– –– –– –– –– ––
E S
–– –– –– –– –– –– –– ––
1 14 17
10
20
25 21 4 16 22 18 17 7
3 12 18
M
S E
–– –– –– –– –– –– ––
9
5 22 10 25 7
17
3
3
9
2
21 17
–– –– –– ––
M A
A ‘S
–– –– –– –– –– ––
E
–– –– –– –– –– ––
22 20 1
10
15 19 1 19 21 17
4
3
12 18 3
7
E S
–– –– –– –– –– ––
E
.
–– –– –– –– –– –– –– –– ––
18 17 7 22
18 22 21 17
9 20
8
1 22 4
20
Answer: THE MAZDA NAGARE PROVIDES A GLIMPSE
INTO MAZDA’S FUTURE DESIGN DIRECTION.
T
hink you did a pretty thorough job of reading this issue of Mazda FUEL? Well, here’s a challenge that will test your memory,
as well as your mental agility. Simply use your decoding skills to decipher this Mazda fact. Having trouble cracking the code
or need to check your work? You’ll find the answer below.
Answer: A. Kewaunee, Wisconsin
Sandy_933482_Text
4/9/07
1:13 PM
Page C4
Makes you re-evaluate the whole SUV thing, doesn’t it?
##### 5-STAR CRASH TEST RATING / FRONT & SIDE — NHTSA*
MAZDA CX-7 STARTING AT $24,345**
*Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). **MAZDA CX-7 Grand Touring FWD with optional Technology
Package as shown $30,900. MSRP excludes tax, title and license fees. Actual dealer price may vary. See dealer for complete details. Properly secure all cargo. ©2007 Mazda Motor of America, Inc.
INTRODUCING THE MAZDA CX-7 CROSSOVER SUV. Your perception of how an SUV should look, act and feel is about to get a
turbocharged jolt. CX-7 merges sports-car-inspired design with 5-passenger room in a shape that makes everything else look obsolete. Think SUVs
can’t be refined? CX-7’s available leather-trimmed seating, one-touch fold-flat seats and smart use of space will change your thinking. There’s even
a lockable storage bin that can hold your laptop. Available voice-activated navigation with rearview camera and Bose® Centerpoint® Surround
System with AudioPilot® are further proof that this is not your typical SUV. Need more evidence? Go to MazdaUSA.com.
57917_MZD_MA6N_088.indd 1
1/10/07 5:03:57 PM