Bermaz, the official custodians of the Mazda brand in Malaysia, will be having a roadshow in 1 Utama Shopping Centre starting from today June 27 to July 1, 2018 (Wednesday to Sunday). A wide range of Mazda models will be on display, including the much talked about 2018 Mazda CX-3. The display area will be at the Oval Concourse from 10:00AM – 10:00PM.
Although the new 2018 Mazda CX-3 has yet to be officially launched in Malaysia, interested parties will be treated with an exclusive preview at this roadshow. This will be the first time in Malaysia that the new Mazda CX-3 will be publicly displayed since its international debut in New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) – March 2018. Bookings for the 2018 Mazda CX-3 are also now open.
Also at this roadshow, those who book any model will be entitled to a sign-up gift and everyone stands a chance to win Mazda Official merchandise by joining in an exciting on-site game of “Goal!” since its the World Cup season.
For the estimated price of the new 2018 Mazda CX-3, click to download the links below:
It’s beyond good. No, really. I normally don’t start-off a review by cutting to the chase, but this time I really see no point to delaying the inevitable. So I’ll start with how I normally end: If you’re looking for a large 7-seater SUV, and if this is within your budget, you simply must go have a test-drive of the Mazda CX-9. And now if you’re interested to know more, here’s why… but first, here’s my first-impression video upon collecting the CX-9 from Bermaz…
First-off, while looks are indeed subjective, and beauty is indeed in the eye of the beholder and blah, blah, blah, blah, and all that, I personally think the Mazda CX-9 is an extremely attractive looking SUV, especially from this angle:
In fact, the external colour of this test-unit really doesn’t do the styling any justice, because I’ve seen it in silver and it looks even more magnificent. The CX-9 somehow manages to pull-off being stylishly-elegant and yet subliminally-sporty at the same time, and folks, it only gets better over on the inside…
Pictures (and of course my severely-limited photography skills) really don’t do any justice to the interior of the CX-9, because it’s jinba-ittai* city in there. The moment you get in, I defy you to not think that you’re in a continental SUV because this one simply reeks of opulence. I have to say, in terms of interiors, the CX-9 really does have one of the best (if not the best) in its class. While ergonomics are top-notch, it’s not just the way the interior is laid-out, but also the way it’s made and from the materials that it’s made up of, which really sets it apart from the rest.
*“Jinba-Ittai reflects the feeling that the sense of oneness between a rider and his beloved horse is the ultimate bond.” –Mazda.
The most amazing thing about the CX-9 though is the way it uses the 228bhp and whopping 420Nm of torque from its 2.5-litre, DOHC, Skyactiv-G 16-valve, 4-cyl petrol engine, mated to a SkyactivDrive 6-speed auto transmission with manual shift capability. For starters, all that delicious torque is available from just 2,000rpm, and this enables the CX-9, despite its size, to accelerate from a standstill to triple-digit speeds in a time that totally belies its external size.
(Full specifications sheet can be downloaded after the photo gallery)
The thing is though, thanks to GVC* or G-Force Vectoring Control , the acceleration and speeds that the CX-9 can achieve are more refined and smooth rather than frantic and frenetic. Excellent NVH suppression also means that speeds well in excess of the national limit cannot be felt, at all; 140 does indeed feel like 80. Don’t say I didn’t warn you…
So what is *GVC? It’s not easy to explain GVC, because it all boils down to ‘feeling’, but I’ll try. Using a sophisticated arsenal of active sensors that are constantly communicating between the engine, gearbox, accelerator pedal, steering wheel, suspension, active safety systems and even the chassis, GVC continually monitors all the driving inputs from the driver, i.e. speed, terrain, road conditions, throttle position, acceleration, deceleration, even lateral and longitudinal forces, to optimise every facet in order to provide a more relaxed and smooth ride regardless if it’s a straight highway or twisty B-road drive.
That didn’t help much did it? Okay it’s magic. GVC is magic. Well it feels like it anyway, but for a more detailed and concise explanation, one better than the above, click this official link: Mazda WTH Is GVC…
And now the bad part. Because the CX-9 is fully-imported (CBU), it retails for a whopping RM265,585.40 for this 2WD variant as tested, and RM280,585.40 for the AWD variant (both variants share the exact same powertrain, individual spec sheets below the photo gallery). These prices are with zero-rated GST too, which is a good thing because earlier the aforementioned AWD variant was just a couple of grand shy of RM300,000! Ouch.
But you know what, as I said in my final parting-words video below, I reviewed this SUV without wanting to know anything about it. Really, when I picked it up, I didn’t know how much it cost, or what kind of specifications it had, and I’m happy to say, I underestimated every aspect, especially the price. As you’ll see in the video below, I mentioned that it “feels like half-a-million bucks”. Well it doesn’t cost that much, not even close, but boy, oh yeah, does it ever feel like it. – Chris Wee.
Mazda cars have been engineered with a human-centric development philosophy, to instill the joy of driving into every Mazda car driver. Instead of just focusing on the mechanics of vehicle dynamics, Mazda’s developments also centered around humans so that they can deliver “Celebrate Driving” to their customers. This results in a harmonious experience where a driver feels one-ness with their car. Mazda calls it “Jinba-ittai”.
MazdaSportsAcademy, the latest extension of Bermaz Motor’s MazdaSports Division, is committed to create Mazda-unique driver experience programmes that are in true spirit of Mazda’s brand essence – “Celebrate Driving”. MazdaSports Academy will first introduce the “Advance Driving” ownership experience programme designed specifically for Mazda Owners, to take place on June 9, 2018 (Saturday) at MAEPS, Serdang.
With the “Advance Driving” programme, participants will learn to experience being one with their Mazda and discover ones driving potential. They will find their perfect driving position and enhance their driving ability through a dynamic driving practical course. The ownership programme is limited to twenty spirited Mazda owners. Mazda Owners that wish to join may do so by registering their interest via Mazda Malaysia’s Facebook Page. (https://www.facebook.com/mazdamy/)
Bermaz’s MazdaSports Division, formed in 2016, currently encompasses vehicle development, parts and accessories, and experience programmes. Since its establishment, the MazdaSports Division has developed two models under its vehicle development project; the Mazda3 and Mazda2 with the nameplate MS and M+, respectively, for domestic market consumption. MazdaSports Division anticipates offering a wider range of experience programmes under the MazdaSports Academy in the near future.
Bermaz Motor has announced the launch of the Mazda Privilege Card as part of its continuing efforts to improve the Mazda Peaceful Ownership Program. The card offers 15% discount on Mazda Genuine Spare Parts, 5% discount on labour cost and 15% discount on Mazda official merchandise. The Mazda Privilege Card is the first of its kind in the industry, rewarding customers through the Mazda Peaceful Ownership Program.
On top of being the latest addition to the Mazda Peaceful Ownership Program, the Mazda Privilege Card is also designed to aid those who are less fortunate through Bermaz’s CSR program – Mazda Medicare Fund. The sign-up fee of RM 100.00, for a validity of 3 years, will serve as a tax-exempted donation to the Mazda Medicare Fund in the name of the applicant. Mazda Medicare Fund, established in 2014, has raised more than RM 900,000.00 to assist charity homes, dialysis patients, and a non-profit hospital.
Cardholders are rewarded with rebates on aftersales services required beyond Bermaz’s 5 Years Manufacturing Warranty and 3 Years Free Maintenance package provision. Any Mazda vehicle purchased within Malaysia is eligible to apply for a Mazda Privilege Card. Benefits of card issued will be exclusive to the Mazda vehicle that it is registered to. Currently, the card can only be used at Showrooms and Aftersales Service Centres operated by Bermaz Motor Trading Sdn Bhd and Prima Merdu Sdn Bhd. Bermaz plans to expand the use of Mazda Privilege Card to include all outlets nationwide in the near future.
Mazda Privilege Card (above) can be applied for at any Showrooms and Aftersales Service Centres operated by Bermaz Motor Trading Sdn Bhd and Prima Merdu Sdn Bhd.
For more information on the Mazda Privilege Card and a list of participating outlets please visit www.mazda.com.my.
Ever thought of buying a car for investment purposes? Most naysayers will have you believe that purchasing a vehicle with the sole intention of selling it on for a profit, is a waste of time. But in actual fact, not only is that possible, but certain enthusiasts have managed to turn the idea into a profitable business.
The key is to purchase a vehicle that has a certain value, the same value that may appreciate overtime. This depends on certain factors that include rarity, desirability and driving enjoyment. This is what hpi, a UK based automotive data company plans on accomplishing. They have listed 10 classic cars that may increase in value in the not so distant future.
Motoring expert Clive Owen has shortlisted these cars based on the following criteria: cheap to acquire, are holding their values and could potentially become future collectors’ items. The list of said vehicles are:
Vauxhall VX 220
Peugeot 205 GTi
Audi TT MKI 3.2
BMW Z3
Citroen C6
Rover Mini
Alfa Romeo GTV
Nissan Cube
Mazda RX8
Regarding the topic, Owen said, “Classic cars have shot up in value over the last few years and in many cases represent a great investment opportunity. Classics in particular are snapped up by collectors and enthusiasts, so prices are constantly on the rise.”
He added, “The trick is how best to spot trends before they take place and maybe even try to redefine what is actually recognized as a classic. Future classics don’t necessarily have to be decades old, luxurious or expensive to begin with.”
Apart from vehicular investment advice, hpi also offers online vehicle evaluations services allowing consumers the ability to buy and sell cars with confidence. Adding to that, it also provides potential buyers with ownership costs over a vehicle’s lifespan and precise depreciation figures.
Mazda has introduced a limited edition variant of its sports coupe that it calls, MX-5 Z-Sport. This nomenclature was last used with the 3rd generation MX-5 back in 2007. The car gets a deep cherry red fabric hood, 17-inch black BBS wheels, and Machine Grey Metallic paintwork.
As for the interior, it gets Sand Leather seats, Z-Sport floor mats and scuff plates. On top of that, each car comes with an individually numbered Z-Sport plaque on the dash. Made exclusively for the UK market, Mazda has limited production of the Z-Sport to just 300 cars.
Like the base car, it is powered by a 2.0-litre 160bhp engine, has a limited slip differential, Bilstein dampers and a strut brace. Its predecessor, was graced with similar specs. It had the same capacity engine, 17-inch BBS wheels, Radiant Ebony Mica paint, brushed aluminium dash inserts, alloy pedals and stitching on the steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake.
Commenting on the launch of the new MX-5 Z-Sport, Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director Mazda Motors UK said, “The MX-5’s new cherry coloured roof was shown for the first time in public at the recent Tokyo Motor Show where it received a very positive reception.”
Though the Z-Sport isn’t that dissimilar from the MX-5 sold in Malaysia, we do hope that more variants of the car are offered to markets outside the UK and Japan. Fans of the brand and car outside these markets, would definitely be delighted to know that Mazda is looking out for them as well.
Mazda has revealed two concept vehicles at the ongoing Tokyo Motorshow, namely the Kai and Vision Coupe. This is the latter’s second outing, but the former’s first public debut. Based on first impressions, the car is nothing less than a masterpiece.
Incorporating the Japanese automaker’s Kodo design language, it has similar lines and contours as cars like the Mazda3 and Mazda6 but far more tastefully done. The curved grille, angular headlights and a low swooping bonnet accentuate the sporty front fascia.
Unlike other hatchbacks from the automaker, this car features an extremely short overhang. Apart from that, Mazda has also given it contours that add depth to the side profiles and a low roof line that that blends with the rear hatch to form one continuous line.
The elegant contours and lowered stance, provide the car with a presence and cool factor that has been absent from the product portfolio since the RX-7 was put out to pasture. Adding to that, the car will feature next-generation SKYACTIV-X petrol engine and the SKYACTIV-Vehicle Architecture.
As for the Vision Coupe, however, the styling is far more futuristic and less functional. But it showcases the capabilities of Mazda’s legion of designers and engineers. It features the ‘Soul of Motion’ exterior with minimalist aesthetics that loosely conforms to the company’s design philosophy.
Mazda says that the car’s design pays homage to Coupes like the Mazda R360, Mazda’s first passenger car, and the Mazda Luce Rotary, also known as the Mazda R130. Evidently, this is the Japanese automaker’s way of telling us that we can expect to see some amazing Mazda cars on our roads in the not so distant future.
As for the company’s long term version for technology development, its looking to fundamental appeal of the automobile to offer better driving pleasure in its new crop of vehicles.
