In 2012, Mazda 3 made its U.S. debut at the Salon of 2011 New York International Auto. Face-lifted with a more refined exterior and interior, the Mazda 3 2012 is also the first application in North America by Mazda SKYACTIV innovative technology to fuel economy and performance oriented that achieve 40 mpg on the highway. Mazda 3 model is best-selling Mazda vehicles worldwide and accounts for almost half the sales of Mazda in the U.S., which makes the car a perfect candidate to introduce SKYACTIV consumers who are looking for dynamic performance combined with high efficiency of fuel.
"SKYACTIV not just the engine, is the next generation of advanced vehicle performance and efficiency," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO of Mazda North American Operations (MNAO). "SKYACTIV reflects Mazda's design philosophy of only those vehicles that are fun to drive, a pleasure, and its eco-friendly and there is no better vehicle in the Mazda 3 starts, one of the exciting compact sports cars on the road."
Redesigned for model year 2010, the freshened 2012 Mazda 3 is the first application of the technology SKYACTIV Mazda North America, get a new gasoline engine SKYACTIV-G and the new SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission and the new-MT SKYACTIV six-speed manual transmission. It also enhanced the sporty driving dynamics, handling and a comfortable cabin space. The exterior design has been refined to express a bolder, with new interiors to create additional features without sacrificing the feel and sense of quality. Additional security features complete the package.
"SKYACTIV not just the engine, is the next generation of advanced vehicle performance and efficiency," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO of Mazda North American Operations (MNAO). "SKYACTIV reflects Mazda's design philosophy of only those vehicles that are fun to drive, a pleasure, and its eco-friendly and there is no better vehicle in the Mazda 3 starts, one of the exciting compact sports cars on the road."
Redesigned for model year 2010, the freshened 2012 Mazda 3 is the first application of the technology SKYACTIV Mazda North America, get a new gasoline engine SKYACTIV-G and the new SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission and the new-MT SKYACTIV six-speed manual transmission. It also enhanced the sporty driving dynamics, handling and a comfortable cabin space. The exterior design has been refined to express a bolder, with new interiors to create additional features without sacrificing the feel and sense of quality. Additional security features complete the package.
In addition to the current MZR 2.0-liter Mazda 3 dual-head cam 16-valve four-cylinder is the newest high-performance direct injection-G SKYACTIV petrol engine of 2.0 liters. Mated to a standard or optional-MT SKYACTIV six-speed manual transmission Drive-SKYACTIV six-speed automatic, is available SKYACTIV sedan or hatchback. The MZR 2.0-liter engine will be available with the current five-speed manual as standard equipment. MZR 2.0-liter-equipped models also available with the current five-speed automatic optional.
Approximately 4.4 pounds less than the current MZR 2.0-liter, 2.0-liter multi-hole injectors endorse SKYACTIV to improve the characteristics of fuel sprays, and developed ways piston cavities, which provide a longer burn time short and prevents the effect of power and torque of the engine knocking. Pumping losses also decreased by using two sequential valve timing (S-VT).
Mazda March 2012 reached a high compression ratio of 12.0:1 and provides 155 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 148 lb-ft of torque at 4,100 rpm. (The PZEV version of this engine are sold in California and other states produces 154 hp at 6000 rpm and 148 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm).
Compared to current 2.0-liter Mazda 3 liter engine, the maximum effect of SKYACTIV equipped Mazda 3 2012 has increased by about five percent (of 148 horsepower at 6500 rpm) and torque has increased by about 10 percent (from 135 lb.-ft. at 4500 rpm). With an improved torque coupled with a drive control, using the coordinated control of engine and transmission. Mazda 3s with technology excels SKYACTIV dynamic response, future maintenance of the Zoom-Zoom concept of unity between car and driver
Fuel economy also gets a boost from the combination of engine and transmission SKYACTIV. When equipped with the gasoline engine and SKYACTIV-G-Drive SKYACTIV optional six-speed automatic transmission, the Mazda 3 sedan 2012 to achieve an EPA-rated 40 mpg on the highway, an improvement of about 21 percent in current MZR 2.0-liter equipped with an optional five-speed automatic transmission. With a fuel tank capacity of 14.5 liters, the 2012 Mazda 3 sedan with SKYACTIV has the potential of a range of 540 miles, even with a gallon of fuel remaining. Mpg in the city for the sedan version also improves by 17 percent to 28 mpg. When equipped with the MT-SKYACTIV six-speed manual transmission, the sedan is classified with fuel economy estimated 27 city/39 highway.
The previously available only in 2.5-liter MZR, Mazda 3 five-door hatchback will now be offered in the United States, where SKYACTIV-G, 2.0-liter gasoline. This is the Mazda 3 sedan is expected to deliver 27 city/38 highway (SKYACTIV-MT), and 28 city/38 highway (SKYACTIV Drive). Estimates slightly lower than the street can be considered as the aerodynamics and different weight ratio greater than a sedan and wagon. However, the sedan has a driving range of well over 500 km of driving the same tank size sedan. MZR 2.0-liter is not available in the sedan.
The higher fuel economy for 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with SKYACTIV is a direct result of combining all the best features of technology in today's transmissions. For SKYACTIV-Drive, the main advantages of a conventional automatic transmission, continuously variable transmission (CVT) and dual-clutch transmission (DCT) integrated. In addition, a torque converter with lock-up clutch developed to ensure minimal loss in fuel economy and an increase in the direct transmission feel.
For SKYACTIV-MT, the objective was to achieve a change in feel that is athletic, energetic and responsible drivers. To achieve this goal, not only had three rounds of the lever stroke reduced by about 10 percent compared to the current six-speed manual (available on models equipped with the MZR 2.5-liter MZR engine or 2, Technology Shower Basket 3-liter Direct Spark Ignition turbocharged engine), but other techniques have been applied: the lower the type of system, type synchronizer block the ball, passing trucks canceller, ball bearing slide and the location of two three march common axis. Reconfigure the existing six-speed manual gearbox, the weight decreased by about 4.4 kilograms, because the need for fewer components, creating a faster and sharper convertibility. Call it a little ', "MX-5 Miata-Ness" in Mazda 3
Also available in the Mazda 3 2012 is the famous Mazda MZR 2.5-liter engine. Parallel to the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter MZR 2.5 The technology is a central element as well. It has an aluminum block and cylinder liner with steel cylinders and the strength and stiffness of molybdenum are not usually seen with large-displacement four-cylinder engine. A forged steel crankshaft provides resistance to high revs, but the rigidity to ensure low NVH characteristics. In addition, the axes of double balance at the oil pan to cancel the second order of noise and vibration. The deep skirt block is designed for rigidity and main bearing caps are set at a lower level of the block type of reinforcement. To minimize noise and vibration typically found on larger displacement four-cylinder shock in front of the crankshaft has two masses to hear. At the end of the exit, a flexible flywheel also borders NVH.
Providing 167 hp at 6000 rpm and 168 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm, the MZR 2.5-liter is available with a six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed electronically controlled automatic with manual change. (The PZEV version of this engine sold in California and other states produces 165 hp at 6000 rpm and 167 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm). The MZR 2.5-liter engine has EPA figures of 20 city and 28 highway with a manual transmission and the city on 22 and 29 highway with automatic transmission.
Catchy dynamic
Mazda 3 has achieved a solid reputation for sports management and exciting, offering a driving experience just as enjoyable, emphasizing the link between the expectations of the driver and the reaction of the car. Genetic pedigree, the 2012 Mazda 3 days not only improves the sense of unity between driver and car, but also offers a driving experience that all passengers can feel and appreciate the different driving situations.
Toitsukan considered, this feeling is more linear and uniform, in particular on the establishment of a smooth transition between acceleration and deceleration of gravity in response to the fundamentals of driving, turning and stopping. This idea is not simply to the strong response to the accelerator and steering operations for sporty driving, but rather to provide a sense of uniformity linear drive all the answers to control operations of the driver. Toitsukan extends to make driving enjoyable and teach drivers the feeling of excitement and control while giving passengers a comfortable ride created by the movement of the car smooth and stable.
Concentrated efforts were made to ensure this is achieved through the features Toitsukan the car, which also led to a stronger body, including the adoption of power steering electro-hydraulic power (EHPAS) system and optimize adjustment of the front and rear shocks. Mazda EHPAS system uses a new control flow characteristics of the pump that allows easier handling at low speeds, while achieving a more positive response and a better road feel thanks to the midrange at high speed. The overall result of the current model is lighter, more agile steering feel.
The body of the March 2012 Mazda has also been reinforced for rigidity, improve agility in the current model is already stellar handling and stability. This was achieved partly by increasing the number of welds used to attach the cross of matter (to the front and rear suspensions are mounted) to areas of the armed forces. The use of stronger materials for reinforcements allowed to disperse more effectively the entry of the suspension passes through the body, improving overall body stiffness. Moreover, the two reinforcing bars in the center of the floor panel of the current Mazda 3 have been replaced by a new individual award that is stronger and more rigid. Using this sheet of reinforcing material eliminates the deformation front and rear body. This update applies only to models equipped with G-SKYACTIV MZR engines of 2.0 liters or 2.5 liters.
In addition, the models powered by SKYACTIV-G, 2.0-liter gasoline has an inverter, which controls the generation of the torque to maintain a harmonious balance between the power of the engine and gear transmission. Programmed in such a way that acceleration is required in relation to the amount of operation of the accelerator pedal, the system ensures that the right amount of torque generated is responsible for the needs of acceleration. This instills confidence in the driver that the vehicle is responsible for accurately and predictably. Driver's desired speed can be achieved without the need for a heavy foot on the accelerator, which will contribute to less wasted fuel.
This change in mid-generation Mazda 3 also extends to its exterior design. Rich expression of the current model and the bold stand has been updated to provide a well-toned look that expresses a higher quality and attractiveness. The increase in aerodynamic and stylish features make the Mazda 3 2012 a more sophisticated look, blending harmoniously with function.
In 2012, Mazda 3, the external appearance is finally equipped with a strong impression with a new front fascia and updated five-point grille opening both sedan and hatchback styles. New design features include more delicate sculptural forms around the openings on the outer edge of the front bumper and a rounded shape of the fog lamp (changed from the horizontal version of the current model).
Mazda 3 sedan and hatchback models with petrol engines SKYACTIV-G to distinguish between exclusive elements such as the new bonnet with a deep metallic blue finish with black areas along both sides of the headlight units with a blue circle in the center of the translucent stresses slow the vehicle of distinctive character, and character with "SKYACTIV" logo against a clear blue background.
Other AIDS continues to optimize the aerodynamic air flow through and around the vehicle is expanding and deepening cap (on models with engine SKYACTIV-G), added under the floor, covering about 10 percent and eliminate the vertical grooves in the more compact design, increased stiffness of the front tire deflectors to prevent warping and to create a good balance between the cooling of the brakes, aerodynamic performance and handling, and added a clamshell-shaped muffler to sit in a corner of the road surface.
The devil is truly in the details, and Mazda engineers do not miss this. The end result is 0.27 Cd Saloon (SKYACTIV equipped model), about seven percent improvement over the Cd 0.29 of existing models. Hatchback version is 0.29 Cd (SKYACTIV equipped model), of which about seven percent more than the 0.31 Cd of existing models.
Refreshed from outside seems to complete the new 16 - and 17-inch aluminum wheel design. 16-inch wheels (all models SKYACTIV) area now includes 10 twisted spokes, has risen to the current model and seven-spoke 17-inch wheels (2.5-liter S model) is characterized by an enlarged holes between the radius, to search for to add a touch lighter but more dynamic. Models, 16-inch wheels and steel wheels 18-inch aluminum will remain unchanged.
The interior is no less re-imagined as outside the vehicle, and was developed with the ultimate goal of an attractive cabin and feel better. From the Board - the greatest scenery in the cabin - the black is currently used in the shift console and door to offer a more aggressive look. Furthermore, satin and polished silver details are added to areas commonly used by consumers, such as outer rings consist of three switches and temperature control audio control panel and vents in the center pane. In addition to creating a sense of sophistication, the pattern of silver on a black background accentuates the location of the common controls and switches, which increases readability and decreases the amount of time drivers take their eyes off the road so , reduce operational errors.
Multi Information Display (MID) and liquid crystal display (LCD), also received a color adjustment, changing the red text and graphics of the current model easier to read white. 2012 Mazdaspeed3 has a touch of silver to replace the existing Red and Silver accents is removed the graphics that adorn the top of the knob. The entire Mazdaspeed3 is now the gear knob Leather steering wheel. The parking brake lever is also wrapped in leather, to create a single coordination, which makes it look like even more sporty car, and to give more interior refinement Mazdaspeed3.
Proof that even a mid-cycle refresh, engineers really sweat the details, the amount of head start button before the screening SKYACTIV drive models with increased almost 0.16 inches above the current model, resulting in better grip feel and smooth moves in both directions, forward-backward and left-right.
Improved visual design have found their way into the seats comfortable and welcoming and create a strong impression of the size of new three-dimensional fabric designs. On black leather seats for non-models, gray cross-threads are added to enhance the contrast and creates a sense of casual comfort. Dune-colored seats are so bright and the dark cross-threads to create a quiet interior environment ripe. Higher trim levels (Touring and Grand Touring) will receive a different three-dimensional interior design to create a more rich quality of black cloth.
All Mazda 3 Mazdaspeed3 and models continue with a high standard of security features. Additional feature available in 2012 models have a Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system. BSM system for drivers to avoid accidents, AIDS, which is often a narrow line between situations, such as brushing against another vehicle during the lane change and merge into traffic. 24GHz radar sensors in the rear of the vehicle to detect approaching vehicles, within 13 meters left or right, and within 26 meters behind. When a vehicle is detected entering the twilight zone, rest of the lights exterior lights mirrors. However, if the signal is activated when the indicators are lit, the flash and the buzzer is a further notice. Also available as an option is the Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) with auto-leveling bi-xenon headlamps.
AFS is a wide field of view of curves, which increases the driver's eye point and the visible distance, taking into account both steering angle and vehicle speed of light in a corner head.
All Mazda 3s, regardless of trim level or choice of engine, Mazda will continue to operate its own very rigid structure of the security forces, which includes deformable zones that absorb external impact energy, and Mazda to build Triple H covering H-shaped reinforcements on the floor, side and roof structure to eliminate the deformation of the cabin and to minimize the risk of injury during an impact. For 2012 models, the strengthening of the B-pillars has been extended for more than seven inches and high-strength steel has been added to further increase body rigidity.
