Monthly Archives: June 2016

The New Mazda MX-5 Cabin Looks Cool If Only a Little Cramped

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MX5 Miata for 2016

The Mazda MX-5 suffers from some design constraints but it is the best deal you will get in the sub $35,000 sports car segment. Although roomier than the just retired model, the cabin space in the new iteration is still too cramped. It is a two-seater convertible which may not be the most practical choice in the cities for families with more than two members. The luggage space is also a problem offering a below par 4.59 cu.ft of space, even without a spare tire. The trunk only has a small kit for repairing punctures.

The small dimension and use of aluminum in almost all of the exterior body panels except window shields and doors have allowed it to shed almost 150 pounds of curb weight. The final weight stands at a remarkable 3,230 pounds.

The steering wheel is also quite thin and small with little padding beneath the leather stitching. Only the highest trim i.e. the Miata GT gets heated seats, heated steering grips and leather upholstery. But the bucket seats are snug and allow you to rest your back comfortably. The seats are a little low and so visibility is a problem. There is also no lumber rest although the driver’s seat in the topmost trim is height adjustable. Despite thigh angle adjustments for the driver, your feet may still touch the steering. The steering wheel is also not telescopic and tilt adjustable although it has regular steering mounted controls like audio volume, cruise control. Headroom and legroom may be limited for those over 6 feet.

Mazda has provided a nice looking 7-inch audio/video highly responsive touchscreen in the central stack which has features like the Mazda Connect infotainment system and navigation maps. Alternatively, you can use the redundant controller knob on the central console which can get in the way of gear shifts. Mazda could have done without it. The TFT instrument cluster also looks dynamic and compact for a roadster. The GT also gets auto climate control and auto dimming mirrors in addition to proactive safety features.

Backing up isn’t a problem if you are driving top down. Even otherwise, you have a rather unstinting rear window that doesn’t reduce rear vision.

For a test drive, book a time slot today at Cardinale Mazda.

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Cardinale Mazda

500 Auto Center Circle

Salinas, California 93907

Phone: 877.989.9252

Website: www.cardinalemazda.com

 

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a Real Performer

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2016 Miata Black

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is one of the sweetest and easiest cars to drive around town. The car is in alignment with Mazda’s human-centric design policies. Mazda doesn’t believe in getting into one-upmanship with other companies. In an unbelievable move, Mazda has shaved off a little bit of curb weight from the outgoing model and also taken off a little horsepower. This is in total contradiction to every other sports car manufacturer which is trying to make bigger, meaner and more complicated machines to compete in the horsepower race, often sacrificing practicality and ride quality at the altar in the process. The MX-5 Miata is a perfect road hustler in that sense, despite some of its drawbacks in design due to cost-cutting measures.

The car produces 155bhp power @6000rpm and 148 ft-lb of torque @4600 rpm. The horsepower has dropped from 167 bhp in the last generation model but torque has improved from 140 ft-lb. The redline has been detuned from 7200 rpm to 6800 rpm. Although the 6-speed manual transmission will suit those who want sportiness in their car, an automatic is also available as an option.

The MX-5 in the US will get a 2.0 liter, naturally aspirated, straight 4-cylinder, DOHC engine with SkyActiv technology. Mazda couldn’t have got any closer to the original 1990 Miata than this.

The fuel economy sounds too good to be true. The official EPA certified numbers are 27mpg city and 34 mpg highway. This is significantly more than the 21/28 fuel efficiency stats of the 2015 model. It has been achieved by some smooth adjustments in the engine as well as the reduction in weight.

The steering is electronic but extremely responsive. You won’t get a single false artificial feedback and although the compression ratio is low and quite a bit of correction may be necessary, the steering follows every little nudge perfectly. The clutch and throttle synergy is good and you will always be in control. This is Mazda’s greatest victory!

For more updates on MX-5, correspond with the representatives at Cardinale Mazda.

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Cardinale Mazda

500 Auto Center Circle

Salinas, California 93907

Phone: 877.989.9252

Website: www.cardinalemazda.com

 

Mazda’s New Torque-Vectoring Technology Is Unique and Effective

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Mazda Logo

Mazda has recently unveiled a new technology that it claims will keep drivers fresh and energetic even after an arduous journey through tortuous roads. Mazda is calling it the G-vectoring Control System or GVC. This technology would assist drivers to negotiate turns better without having to make too many steering corrections. It would be achieved by varying the engine torque output. Since the technology reduces factors like lateral acceleration without having to do too many adjustments with the steering, the driver can avoid fatigue even after long journeys.

Mazda’s GVC technology sends continuously changing torques to the front wheels but unlike other available torque vectoring technologies, the torque is reduced with the help of the engine mapping of the car. The maximum torque reduced on sharp, winding roads will be about 22 ft-lb but it would be hardly perceptible to the driver behind the wheel. But the improved efficiency of the car while negotiating corners will be palpable. This new system is monitored and controlled by powerful computers which read the steering wheel movements constantly and ensures that the vertical load on the car is optimized. A switch is positioned on the central console that allows the driver to engage or disengage the system.

Mazda has also revealed that it has plans to introduce more comfortable seats that would help the passengers to counter the lateral forces more effectively and thus reduce muscle exertion and fatigue. You can expect the future Mazda’s to be more fun to drive because of improved stability and reduced G-forces on the body. To know more, contact Cardinale Mazda.

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Cardinale Mazda

500 Auto Center Circle

Salinas, California 93907

Phone: 877.989.9252

Website: www.cardinalemazda.com

 

 

Mazda Thinks 155 Ponies Are Enough to Power the Current Generation of Miatas-II

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MX5 Miata for 2016

Mazda had revealed in 2015 that it would not make a more powerful version of the MX-5 Miata. It had acquainted the motor world with its plans to keep the number of horses in check at 155.  Miata was never meant to be a stiff- chassis, ballistic supercar with turbocharged engine spitting fire at mind-boggling revs. It was thought of as a charmingly lithe and dainty roadster with reasonably good looks and matchless driving experience behind the wheels.

This ended the rumors that Mazda was planning to bring in a more powerful and torquey Miata. It took experts by surprise and they commended Mazda’s gutsiness in a market where speed and taut suspensions are much appreciated. Mazda has once again reaffirmed its commitment to produce a superlight Miata which can prowl like a Cheetah. The speed has also been significantly increased from the last gen model and it is now one of the fastest available in the market, in its price range.

Nobuhiro Yamamoto who is the program manager of the 2016 Miata had told a top auto magazine last year that his team was not looking to wring out more speed or torque from the 2.0 liter, Atkinson capable inline-4, 16-valve engine with a 6.0 speed manual (automatic is optional). He wants to focus on providing a blissful riding and driving experience instead, which is what the original 1.6 liter 1990 Miata had set out to achieve.

Those who have got behind the wheels would tell you that it is the best sub-$30,000 roadster convertible in the US right now. For any queries, call Cardinale Mazda.

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Cardinale Mazda

500 Auto Center Circle

Salinas, California 93907

Phone: 877.989.9252

Website: www.cardinalemazda.com

 

 

Mazda Thinks 155 Ponies Are Enough to Power the Current Generation of Miatas-I

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Miata CardinaleWay Mazda

Mazda had announced in 2015 that the new generation of Miatas it is looking to design, won’t come with turbocharged engines like the previous two generations. They would in fact focus on improving the driving experience. So, they would rather keep the power restricted to 155 bhp and try to make the car lighter. The engineers of Mazda have also conceded that they may not have the right technology to decrease the weight any further at this point in time but are relentlessly pursuing this dream in alignment with the original Miata philosophy. They want to build a roadster that is fun to drive. It should be peppy and zippy, not a muscle-flexing, fuel-spewing thug that goes about breaking necks and backs.

The 2016 4th generation MX-5 Miata is dimensionally similar to the 1st generation Miata produced for the first time in 1990. The exterior looks have changed slightly thanks to Mazda’s new Kodo design and has a comparatively more revamped cabin with modern technology and telematics. The car has a curb weight of 2313 pounds. Thanks to extensive use of light weight aluminum and magnesium throughout the body, this car is almost 231 pounds lighter than the last generation Miata. This is what aids the car to achieve an unbelievable power-to-weight ratio and is also one of the quickest cars around. It can hit 0 to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds.

Do you want to know our final verdict? For its price tag, it is promising all the fun that you can have. Just go for it! For more details, contact Cardinale Mazda.

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Cardinale Mazda

500 Auto Center Circle

Salinas, California 93907

Phone: 877.989.9252

Website: www.cardinalemazda.com

 

 

Why a Mazda Can Complete Your Life

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_mazda3_sb_096

 Mazda cars are always fun to drive around. It is the only Japanese car that provides a great balance between power, speed and efficiency. Because of its racetrack pedigree, it knows a thing or two about racing, which it incorporates in its family cars as well. It has been a well-loved brand in the US since its entry in1970.

Its new-age cars using the Skyactiv engine technology and the Kodo design language are symbols of grace, power and speed. Its product line consists of a healthy mix of wagons, hatchbacks, sedans, crossover SUVs, big-bodied SUVs along with an impressive package of sports cars. It also manufactures commercial vehicles.

Why is it a good time to buy a Mazda?

Mazda is an export-oriented company and it still exports most of its offerings to the US from Japan. As the Japanese government struggles with years of deflation, it has for the last few years kept the Yen weak through the Quantitaive Easing Policy to ramp up the prices of government bonds. But the stance is changing. In order to move towards their inflation target of 2%, the Bank of Japan is moving towards a negative interest rate, the first in its history. This has the potential to sharply increase the value of yen.

Before the Yen sharply rises, Japanese automakers and exporters will look to make the most of the weakened currency. Mazda along with other Japanese auto-giants is offering competitive and enticing incentives to US buyers. This may be your last opportunity to buy an affordable but high quality Mazda cars as they target volume sales. It has an amazing line-up. Most Mazdas are a cut above the rest. Just take your pick!

For more information on Mazda, contact Cardinale Mazda.

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Cardinale Mazda

500 Auto Center Circle

Salinas, California 93907

Phone: 877.989.9252

Website: www.cardinalemazda.com

 

Thinking of Buying a Mazda3? Check Out The Trims First!

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 Cardinale Mazda 3

As expected, the Mazda3 is available in twin engine options. One is the Mazda3i which has a 2.0L, variable 4 inline cylinders, DOHC, 16-valve, 6-speed manual transmission, FWD producing 155hp power and 150 ft-lb of torque. The other available engine option is the Mazda3s which has a 2.5L, variable 4-inline, 6-speed manual which wrings 184 hp power and 185 ft-lb of torque. They have quite a few trims each

The Mazda3i Sport trim, available only on sedans, come with brilliant 6-speaker audio system with USB, satellite radio subscription-based package and an auxiliary input. It also has standard 16-inch steel wheels which can be upgraded to alloy, voice recognition and hands-free phone connectivity, a 7-inch touch screen on the central stack, foldable rear seats, a tilt-and-telescopic electronic steering with cruise controls and height-adjustable driver seat. Upgrades include heated mirrors, a blind spot monitor with cross-traffic alert among others.

The Mazda3i Touring has most of the features of the equipment package of Mazda3i sport. Additionally, it gets sunroof, CD player, premium 9-speaker Bose audio, fog lights and keyless entry and ignition and dual-zone auto climate.

The Mazda3i Grand Touring additionally gets premium leather seats, 6-way adjustable power driver seat with lumbar rest, heated front seats and navigation.

The Mazda3s Touring gets steering column mounted paddle shifters, digital speedometer, grille-insert and 18-inch wheels (not the most comfortable ride on these!)

The Mazda3s Grand Touring, the highest trim, has adaptive xenon headlights with daytime running lights, LED rear lamps, plush leather upholstery, and regenerative braking technology with i-Eloop technology. There is also forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist.

The cars are packed with features. Each one is as good get as you get. Talk to us today at Cardinale Mazda to know more about the Mazda3.

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Cardinale Mazda

500 Auto Center Circle

Salinas, California 9Mazda3907

Phone: 877.989.9252

Website: www.cardinalemazda.com

 

The Demystification of Mazda’s Rotary Engine

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SAFETY

Mazda’s Wankel rotary engines have been a subject of many speculations. A lot of myths and misconceptions have been created and propagated. Moreover, Mazda is much better at building cars than going after silly myths and slaying them. They have a weak communication channel, so most often there is no one from Mazda to allay the fears of its buyers. This article will clear some of your doubts regarding rotary engines.

They are as follows:

  • A rotary engine is very simple to build. Among the naturally aspirated engines, the Mazda Wankel engines produce the highest power-to-displacement ratio.
  • Mazda rotaries can reach peak power at the highest rev range. For example, the redline of RX8 is at 9000 rpm and it reaches peak power at that level. The high rpm and tremendously high power produces thunderous wails like the Banshee, a dream for any racer. But there is no mismatch between power and rev range and the gears are tall which help you to build power nicely.
  • One of the most common misconceptions is that rotary engines burn oil out of a fault in design. That is not true. It was designed exactly that way. The rotary engines use jets that take tiny bits of oil. The mixture of oil with the fuel keeps the seals lubricated.
  • The 3rd generation RX7s that are currently produced have twin-rotor 13-REW engines with twin sequential turbo.
  • One of the disadvantages of rotary engines is that they are expensive. They can also give you some trouble in cold starting. The engine motor has to be adequately warmed up to the operational temperature before the car be driven.

If you want to try your hand at driving a rotary-engine powered Mazda, call Cardinale Mazda today and book a slot.

 

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Cardinale Mazda

500 Auto Center Circle

Salinas, California 93907

Phone: 877.989.9252

Website: www.cardinalemazda.com

 

 

Clock Settings, Commander Switch, Navigation – A Quick Guide

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Mazda 1 Mazda Experiences Growth in January 2016

Here is a handy guide to three important features of your Mazda:

  • Clock

The clock allows you to keep track of time on the go without having to take your hands off the steering to look at your watch. To change or adjust the clock in the car, go to the “Settings” option on the home screen and select the “Clock” tab. You have 4 options, “Adjust Time”, “GPS Sync”, “Time Format”, and “Time Zone Select” to manually set your preferred time.

  • Commander switch

Placed right next to the driver’s seat, you are able to operate the 5 options, Home, Navigation, Music, Favorites, and Previous, on the home screen with the matching buttons around the commander switch. There’s a volume knob next to the switch with which you can control the audio level within the car. Turning the rotary knob allows you to select the desired option and pressing the knob will open the selected application. You can store about 50 stations, 50 destinations for navigation, and 50 phone book contacts under Favorites.

  • Navigation

Selecting the “Nav” option on the home screen takes you to the Navigation home screen with a number of additional options present on the bottom. When starting a journey, you can select “New Destination” and then “Find Address”. You can enter the zip code or destination address or use voice commands to do the same. The navigation system then directs you through to the destination using spoken instructions and onscreen directions.

You are provided an SD card with a map of the USA and Canada which can be updated regularly. To insert the SD card, switch off the ignition, open the center storage compartment, and place the card in the slot provided.

 

To know more, visit Cardinale Mazda.

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Cardinale Mazda

500 Auto Center Circle

Salinas, California 93907

Phone: 877.989.9252

Website: www.cardinalemazda.com

Blind Spot Monitoring on the Newest Mazdas

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Mazda 1 starting price for 2016 MX-5

The Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system is an essential part of Mazda’s new safety technology, i-ACTIVSENSE. It is designed to warn you about blind spots on both sides of the car when changing lanes or backing out in a parking lot.

The BSM system uses radar sensors integrated into the rear bumper which helps you detect the movement of vehicles at the vehicle’s rear. Its warning lights are located on the outside mirrors and illuminate the location of the vehicle detected.

When you are driving on the freeway at over 20mph, the BSM system notifies you of any vehicle within a vicinity of 8 meters. When such a vehicle is detected, the BSM warning lights begin to flash depending on which side the vehicle is. In cases where you are switching lanes and there’s a vehicle nearby, a warning beep will notify you that it is not safe to change lanes.

Rear cross traffic alert works alongside the BSM and operates when you are taking your car out of a parking spot. When you are reversing, the system warns you if it senses a vehicle approaching from the side at 3mph to 18mph. The rear cross traffic alert works only if the shift lever is in “reverse” and the rear view monitor is displayed.

You can activate or deactivate the BSM system by pressing the “BSM OFF” switch on the dashboard. A BSM OFF light illuminates in the instrument cluster to let you know the system has been deactivated. You can also adjust the beep volume by selecting “Settings” and scrolling to the “Safety Tab”. Once there, choose “Blind Spot Monitoring Volume” and select the desired volume.

To know more, visit Cardinale Mazda.

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Cardinale Mazda

500 Auto Center Circle

Salinas, California 93907

Phone: 877.989.9252

Website: www.cardinalemazda.com