New Mazda MPV Launched in Japan
The new Mazda MPV was unveiled in Japan today as the first of the company’s new generation of vehicles to be fitted with the newly-developed MZR 2300 cc engine. It is also available with the MZI V6 3000 cc engine. Mazda led development of the new engine family for the Ford Group which will use versions of the engine globally, building approximately 1.5 million units in Ford group plants worldwide.
The MZR 16-valve DOHC engine is destined to become Mazda’s next-generation powerplant standard. Innovations such as the variable induction system (VIS), which provides the optimum air intake charging effect, matched to the engine rpm, make for superior dynamic performance and economy.
The new MZI V6 24-valve DOHC engine is equipped with an intake manifold communication control (IMCC) that constantly maintains maximum turbocharging to match engine revs. This results in a maximum torque of nearly 90% from the low-rpm range of 2000rpm upward. Excellent torque is maintained throughout the entire range from low to high speeds.
Fuel economy is claimed to be good with regular petrol while emissions performance is excellent and has been certified as a ‘good: low emission vehicle’ by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. Strengthened rigidity between the engine and transmission also reduces engine noise.
Engine outputs:
MZI 2967 cc : 145 kw/197 ps at 6300rpm, 267 Nm at 4750 rpm
MZR 2260 cc : 120 kW/163 ps at 6000 rpm, 208 Nm at 4500 rpm
Models equipped with the MZI engine also feature Mazda’s newly-developed electronically-controlled 5-speed automatic transmission system. It is said to provide precise shift control to ensure that the appropriate amount of drive power is available under all driving conditions and provide a smoother, more pleasant ride.
The new MPV includes a number of changes that are said to improve maneuvering stability. Changes include increased rigidity of the body and suspension, reduced damper attenuation, and smoother front damper. In addition, L-shaped coil springs provide just the right amount of centre axis tilt.
A lively, sporty design with a new front grille, aerodynamic bumpers, and headlights reflect Mazda’s design DNA concept and create a sporty exterior look that is both refined and powerful.
Two new body colours are available that use a special highly luminescent paint. Aluminium particles in the paint line up flat when the paint dries to create a unique metallic finish while the newly-developed clearcoat layer suppresses random light reflection off the paint surface. The result is a heightened shadowing effect and an image of greater body solidity.
The model boasts a host of convenient features, including electric sliding doors (on both sides) that open and close at the touch of a button, and a collapsible centre table that can be extended to 600 mm in length. The new rear entertainment system enables passengers in the back seat to enjoy TV images received by the navigation system situated at the front.
Mazda expects monthly sales of 4,000 units of the new MPV in Japan. Prices there start at ¥2.098 million (about RM62,940) and go as high as ¥2.898 million (about RM86,950) for the V6 version with 4WD.
