wongpres
10-01-2004, 08:59 PM
Welcome to this new forum. Let's begin with the full official Mazda press release as well as some N. American-spec specific info.
Specific to N. American-spec:
- the 2.3l (same as Mazda3 & Mazda6) will be the only engine available
- 6-seater packaging will be the only configuration available
- 17-inch wheels standard (likely US only)
Here's the press release:
Mazda5
An Insightful New Dimension of Zoom-Zoom Pleasure
EDITORS NOTE: The following is a general global summary of Mazda5 product
information. Equipment configurations may differ from those of the final
products, and availability will vary slightly from region to region. Check
with your local Mazda media communication team for specific, market correct
details.
The new communicative and dynamic space wagon that masterfully combines
cabin comfort, outstanding functionality and true driv ing pleasure with a
clean and stylish design.
Mazda Motor Corporation brings new depth to its Zoom-Zoom brand message
with the world debut of the Mazda5 at the 2004 Paris Motor Show. Designed
from the inside out for maximum comfort, convenience and enjoyment as the
embodiment of its innovative 6 + One packaging concept, the ambience throughout the cabin evokes
conversation and communication among occupants. The Mazda5 also charms with
its sophisticated, yet subtly stated body design that is pleasing to the
eye, and its dynamic driving
performance that is a pleasure to drive as part of one's daily lifestyle.
Aiming to establish a new standard in its segment
The space wagon segment is an important and growing segment in many markets
around the world. Stephen Odell, Mazda's senior managing executive officer
in charge of Global Sales, Marketing and Customer Service had the following
to say.
"In Europe, this segment has exploded in the past five years, growing in
some estimations by more than 200 percent in the five largest markets. We
think this is one segment where Mazda can definitely inject a little
Zoom-Zoom."
Mazda debuted the MX-Flexa as a six-seat space wagon concept at the Geneva
International Motor Show earlier this year. Originally built to demonstrate
one possible direction for a future Mazda vehicle instilled with Zoom-Zoom,
the MX-Flexa was so well received that it spurred the momentum to further
develop the concept and ready the Mazda5 for release as a production
vehicle.
The Mazda5 will certainly inject a dose of Zoom-Zoom into the segment. The
development goal of combining maximum comfort and versatile practicality
with driving enjoyment and responsive handling is explained by Kenichi
Fukunaga, Mazda5 Program Manager.
"We conceptualized the Mazda5 as a communicative and dynamic space wagon.
The communicative part of the product concept relates to the interface
between the vehicle and users, and conveys the notion that the Mazda5 is
rich in user-friendly
practicality. It also conveys the notion that the Mazda5 enables passengers
to interact with each other in comfort. And it conveys the promise of
driveability that makes for natural-feeling interaction between the Mazda5
and the driver.
Overall, it reflects the personality of a vehicle that, compared with other
models released since Mazda adopted the Zoom-Zoom brand strategy, is more
clearly focused on utility and passenger communication.
The dynamic part of the product concept relates to high running, turning,
and stopping potential and to innovative styling that was achieved without
compromises in packaging efficiency. Its important to note that the
Mazda5s performance characteristics are aimed mainly at balancing the need
for brisk acceleration with handling that feels natural and feels
reassuring to the driver and passengers. Mazda vehicles are developed to
deliver easy, enjoyable driving, good manoeuvrability and overall comfort
through excellent body control and damping, not the kind of performance
that's measured only in terms of all-out, raw speed.
Finally, the space wagon part of the product concept conveys the notion
that all of these benefits are delivered in a roomy, space-efficient form."
Key to realising the communicative part is the introduction of a new 6 +
One packaging concept that aims to deliver maximum comfort for six
occupants, plus an extra dimension of versatility and functionality.
Included in this concept is the space established in the centre of the
cabin that promotes communication, even when the exchange is between the
front and third row seats.
The focus on delivering this comfort and convenience is why development
proceeded from the inside out.
Stylish and Clean from the inside out
The Mazda5 design team's aim was to realise a fresh new taste in a design
that is familiar and easy to grow fond of, but that continues to offer a
fresh and well-balanced driving experience, even in constant daily use. The
belief is that a vehicle built to satisfy all the daily needs of family use
must deliver such a balance, and must appeal to a wide variety of
customers. Another priority was to create a pleasing new utility design
that broadens the appeal of Mazda's Zoom-Zoom brand strategy of stylish,
insightful and spirited dynamic performance by taking it deeper into the
realm of insightful engineering with a stylish and clean appeal.
Stylish and clean describes the proportions and balance that faithfully
inherit the benefits of Mazda's brand DNA while achieving a fresh
expression of subtle, sophisticated detailing in a design
that places priority on delivering smart functionality. The design
intentionally avoids flaunting or making an emphatic presentation, instead
aiming to create a harmonious sense of presence that pleases in a manner
that simply feels right and fits the customer's lifestyle. The Mazda5 will
be available in two distinct exterior design appearances that aim at
addressing the product's global nature and the diverse needs of users in
the respective markets where the product will be offered.
Exterior
Particular attention was given to the flowing wedge shape, lean and sinewy
solidness, and compact appearance that embody the
stylish and clean concept.
The sweeping wedge shape of the low front nose section and stylish, flowing
silhouette reveals the Mazda5's dynamic spirit. It is supported by a strong
character line along the side of the
body that runs from nose to tail and merges with the inconspicuous finish
of the sliding door's centre rail to accentuate the body's wedge-shaped
profile.
The side of the Mazda5's body tucks in as much as possible at the rear for
a solid and well-toned look and the roofline also slopes downward as it
reaches the rear to complete the dynamic image, while creating a compact
look and a clean line that defies the roomy cabin space inside.
One of the available appearances packages reduces the apparent volume of
the lower body and adds chrome-like accents to the front grille and
headlamps for a smart look that emphasizes
comfort and pleasing performance. In contrast, the second package
incorporates side skirts and other elements that make the centre
of gravity appear lower, while the lamps are finished in a dark colour that
adds an expression of a nimble, more aggressive spirit.
Interior
The entire design team approached the new 6 + One packaging concept by
working relentlessly to deliver the highest possible
quality and greatest comfort and ease of use for the driver and all
occupants. The materials, colours, and design throughout the
interior were given utmost attention so Mazda could deliver a new compact
space wagon that customers will find pleasant to drive day in and day out,
around town and on outings with family and friends.
The sedan-like design of the instrument panel and sweeping line of its
upper section provide a natural feeling and clear field of view that even
former sedan drivers will find immediately familiar and comfortable. The
centre of the dashboard is raised to position the controls concentrated on
the centre panel where the driver can easily reach them, as well as to
improve their visibility and operation.
Interior detailing covers the finest points to enhance the finish and sense
of quality. For example, the simple and clean three- meter instrument
cluster has the large speedometer with white back-plate in the centre, and
is designed for maximum visibility right down to details in relationship to
the steering wheel's position.
Mazda5 will offer global customers a choice of two interior trim packages.
One features a light beige keynote colour that creates a warm and relaxing
atmosphere as well as look of quality throughout the cabin, with an aim of
pleasing those who seek a smart looking interior the whole family will
enjoy day after day.
The other combines a black keynote colour with cool silver accents on the
centre panel and elsewhere to create a balance that will appeal to those
who appreciate a sleeker, more sophisticated or technical interior
ambience.
Packaging and Craftsmanship
The new 6 + One packaging concept delivers maximum comfort for six
occupants, plus an additional dimension of utility through intelligent
design that realizes easy access, walk-through convenience, ample seating
arrangements, handy storage space
and practical yet visually pleasing appointments. Core to the whole concept
is the open space created in the cabin's centre that encourages and
facilitates free and open interaction between all who ride in the Mazda5.
With an overall length of 4,505 mm (177 inches), width of 1,755 mm (69.1
inches), height of 1,615 mm (63.6 inches) and a wheelbase of 2,750 mm (108
inches), the Mazda5 manages to deliver the roomy comfort of a space wagon,
while
limiting overall size. For reference, the length exceeds the compact Mazda3
five door model by just 85 mm (3.35 inches), the height by 150 mm (5.91
inches); while the width is the same on both cars. Despite the long
wheelbase, the Mazda5
features an excellent minimum turning radius of just 5.3 meters, making it
remarkably easy for any driver to manoeuvre in tight situations.
Mazda5's large sliding doors on both sides are a first in this class. The
doors open smoothly and easily, and do not swing out too far, making them
easy to operate in parking spaces and other tight locations. Features that
make access to all seats very easy, even when loaded down with shopping
bags, infants, or in other
daily-life situations, include the wide sliding doors, the low and wide
side steps, and one-touch third row walk-in mechanism.
Particular effort went to ensuring maximum headroom and legroom while
providing a comfortably tall hip point for friends or family who sit in the
third row seats. This included overcoming a number of challenges such as
developing a low-profile fuel tank to realise
a low, flat cabin floor without sacrificing fuel tank integrity or capacity
for extended touring, as well as angling the rear roof pillar back toward
the liftgate to add extra head clearance while improving the vehicle´s
aerodynamic characteristics at the same time.
The second and third row seats can be easily arranged in a number of
flexible patterns to allow maximum efficiency in the use of space. In
addition to their long slide adjustment and reclining functions, the second
row seats each feature a handy double-fold mechanism. Design details to
achieve maximum comfort include a flat floor design that ensures maximum
legroom in both the second and third row seats. Folding down the second and
third row seatbacks creates an expansive luggage area with a virtually flat
floor.
In markets where offered, a karakuri seventh seat folds out from beneath
the cushion of the left-hand second row seat to provide seating for a
seventh passenger between the second row seats when the need arises.
Alternately, a karakuri utility box stowed beneath the cushion of the
right-hand seat in the second row can be folded out to occupy the same
space when added utility is the priority.
Accessibility
To ensure usability and ease of accessibility, painstaking research was
conducted that included attaching sensors to test subjects and running
simulations of the human body's actual movement when opening/closing the
door. This helped produce easy-to-operate sliding doors on both sides that
open 700 mm, wide enough to allow a parent to enter the vehicle while
carrying an infant. The walk-through cabin design and one-touch entry to
the third row further add to the ease of access.
Another product of extensive testing, the new plastic liftgate with
two-step stop mechanism, maximizes operational ease for users of all
heights and builds.
Convenient accessories
Furthering ease of use, the Mazda5 has an available advanced keyless
system, a first for Mazda outside of Japan. The system employs a
card-shaped device that one simply carries in a pocket or purse. When the
holder comes within close proximity of the car, the card-shaped transmitter
automatically communicates with
Mazda5's onboard system to allow the doors or liftgate to be locked or
unlocked, and the engine started or stopped without inserting
a key into a door or ignition keyhole. The system makes it convenient to
enter the car when one's hands are encumbered with shopping bags, or
children.
The development team also developed smart new audio and entertainment
systems with functionality and versatility that heightens the pleasure of
riding in the Mazda5.
In markets where available, a newly developed hard disk drive
(HDD) based audio system stores up to 3,000 of the user's favourite songs,
the equivalent of 300 to 500 CDs. The system supports fast and easy
searching for individual tracks by title, artist name,
or genre for instant access to the music that suits the moment.
An available rear entertainment system includes a seven-inch LCD display
and DVD player mounted on the ceiling that allows passengers in the second
and third row seats to enjoy watching
DVD movies, or to play CDs. Additionally, an auxiliary jack mounted in the
third row seat trim makes it possible to connect a game machine, or a video
camera for playback. A wireless remote
control makes it easy for passengers in any of the second or third row
seats to control the system and select a different song, movie chapter,
change volume, etc.
Craftsmanship
Attention to detail can be readily seen in the quality of the seat, floor,
and body designs and is a testament to the development team's eagerness to
have users experience the company's commitment to quality and finish the
instant a door on the Mazda5 is opened.
The Mazda5's fit and finish speaks of Mazda's determination to deliver high
quality throughout, right down to the small clearance tolerances for panel
matching. Of particular note is the unobtrusively smooth surface of the
body colour B-pillar between the front and sliding doors. Similarly, the
ridge lines and tracks for the sliding doors create a straight, clean
finish.
Additionally, clinical analysis of muscle movement when operating the gear
shift lever led to the development of a centre panel design that positions
the knob at an optimum angle that makes operation possible without bending
one's wrist.
Specific to N. American-spec:
- the 2.3l (same as Mazda3 & Mazda6) will be the only engine available
- 6-seater packaging will be the only configuration available
- 17-inch wheels standard (likely US only)
Here's the press release:
Mazda5
An Insightful New Dimension of Zoom-Zoom Pleasure
EDITORS NOTE: The following is a general global summary of Mazda5 product
information. Equipment configurations may differ from those of the final
products, and availability will vary slightly from region to region. Check
with your local Mazda media communication team for specific, market correct
details.
The new communicative and dynamic space wagon that masterfully combines
cabin comfort, outstanding functionality and true driv ing pleasure with a
clean and stylish design.
Mazda Motor Corporation brings new depth to its Zoom-Zoom brand message
with the world debut of the Mazda5 at the 2004 Paris Motor Show. Designed
from the inside out for maximum comfort, convenience and enjoyment as the
embodiment of its innovative 6 + One packaging concept, the ambience throughout the cabin evokes
conversation and communication among occupants. The Mazda5 also charms with
its sophisticated, yet subtly stated body design that is pleasing to the
eye, and its dynamic driving
performance that is a pleasure to drive as part of one's daily lifestyle.
Aiming to establish a new standard in its segment
The space wagon segment is an important and growing segment in many markets
around the world. Stephen Odell, Mazda's senior managing executive officer
in charge of Global Sales, Marketing and Customer Service had the following
to say.
"In Europe, this segment has exploded in the past five years, growing in
some estimations by more than 200 percent in the five largest markets. We
think this is one segment where Mazda can definitely inject a little
Zoom-Zoom."
Mazda debuted the MX-Flexa as a six-seat space wagon concept at the Geneva
International Motor Show earlier this year. Originally built to demonstrate
one possible direction for a future Mazda vehicle instilled with Zoom-Zoom,
the MX-Flexa was so well received that it spurred the momentum to further
develop the concept and ready the Mazda5 for release as a production
vehicle.
The Mazda5 will certainly inject a dose of Zoom-Zoom into the segment. The
development goal of combining maximum comfort and versatile practicality
with driving enjoyment and responsive handling is explained by Kenichi
Fukunaga, Mazda5 Program Manager.
"We conceptualized the Mazda5 as a communicative and dynamic space wagon.
The communicative part of the product concept relates to the interface
between the vehicle and users, and conveys the notion that the Mazda5 is
rich in user-friendly
practicality. It also conveys the notion that the Mazda5 enables passengers
to interact with each other in comfort. And it conveys the promise of
driveability that makes for natural-feeling interaction between the Mazda5
and the driver.
Overall, it reflects the personality of a vehicle that, compared with other
models released since Mazda adopted the Zoom-Zoom brand strategy, is more
clearly focused on utility and passenger communication.
The dynamic part of the product concept relates to high running, turning,
and stopping potential and to innovative styling that was achieved without
compromises in packaging efficiency. Its important to note that the
Mazda5s performance characteristics are aimed mainly at balancing the need
for brisk acceleration with handling that feels natural and feels
reassuring to the driver and passengers. Mazda vehicles are developed to
deliver easy, enjoyable driving, good manoeuvrability and overall comfort
through excellent body control and damping, not the kind of performance
that's measured only in terms of all-out, raw speed.
Finally, the space wagon part of the product concept conveys the notion
that all of these benefits are delivered in a roomy, space-efficient form."
Key to realising the communicative part is the introduction of a new 6 +
One packaging concept that aims to deliver maximum comfort for six
occupants, plus an extra dimension of versatility and functionality.
Included in this concept is the space established in the centre of the
cabin that promotes communication, even when the exchange is between the
front and third row seats.
The focus on delivering this comfort and convenience is why development
proceeded from the inside out.
Stylish and Clean from the inside out
The Mazda5 design team's aim was to realise a fresh new taste in a design
that is familiar and easy to grow fond of, but that continues to offer a
fresh and well-balanced driving experience, even in constant daily use. The
belief is that a vehicle built to satisfy all the daily needs of family use
must deliver such a balance, and must appeal to a wide variety of
customers. Another priority was to create a pleasing new utility design
that broadens the appeal of Mazda's Zoom-Zoom brand strategy of stylish,
insightful and spirited dynamic performance by taking it deeper into the
realm of insightful engineering with a stylish and clean appeal.
Stylish and clean describes the proportions and balance that faithfully
inherit the benefits of Mazda's brand DNA while achieving a fresh
expression of subtle, sophisticated detailing in a design
that places priority on delivering smart functionality. The design
intentionally avoids flaunting or making an emphatic presentation, instead
aiming to create a harmonious sense of presence that pleases in a manner
that simply feels right and fits the customer's lifestyle. The Mazda5 will
be available in two distinct exterior design appearances that aim at
addressing the product's global nature and the diverse needs of users in
the respective markets where the product will be offered.
Exterior
Particular attention was given to the flowing wedge shape, lean and sinewy
solidness, and compact appearance that embody the
stylish and clean concept.
The sweeping wedge shape of the low front nose section and stylish, flowing
silhouette reveals the Mazda5's dynamic spirit. It is supported by a strong
character line along the side of the
body that runs from nose to tail and merges with the inconspicuous finish
of the sliding door's centre rail to accentuate the body's wedge-shaped
profile.
The side of the Mazda5's body tucks in as much as possible at the rear for
a solid and well-toned look and the roofline also slopes downward as it
reaches the rear to complete the dynamic image, while creating a compact
look and a clean line that defies the roomy cabin space inside.
One of the available appearances packages reduces the apparent volume of
the lower body and adds chrome-like accents to the front grille and
headlamps for a smart look that emphasizes
comfort and pleasing performance. In contrast, the second package
incorporates side skirts and other elements that make the centre
of gravity appear lower, while the lamps are finished in a dark colour that
adds an expression of a nimble, more aggressive spirit.
Interior
The entire design team approached the new 6 + One packaging concept by
working relentlessly to deliver the highest possible
quality and greatest comfort and ease of use for the driver and all
occupants. The materials, colours, and design throughout the
interior were given utmost attention so Mazda could deliver a new compact
space wagon that customers will find pleasant to drive day in and day out,
around town and on outings with family and friends.
The sedan-like design of the instrument panel and sweeping line of its
upper section provide a natural feeling and clear field of view that even
former sedan drivers will find immediately familiar and comfortable. The
centre of the dashboard is raised to position the controls concentrated on
the centre panel where the driver can easily reach them, as well as to
improve their visibility and operation.
Interior detailing covers the finest points to enhance the finish and sense
of quality. For example, the simple and clean three- meter instrument
cluster has the large speedometer with white back-plate in the centre, and
is designed for maximum visibility right down to details in relationship to
the steering wheel's position.
Mazda5 will offer global customers a choice of two interior trim packages.
One features a light beige keynote colour that creates a warm and relaxing
atmosphere as well as look of quality throughout the cabin, with an aim of
pleasing those who seek a smart looking interior the whole family will
enjoy day after day.
The other combines a black keynote colour with cool silver accents on the
centre panel and elsewhere to create a balance that will appeal to those
who appreciate a sleeker, more sophisticated or technical interior
ambience.
Packaging and Craftsmanship
The new 6 + One packaging concept delivers maximum comfort for six
occupants, plus an additional dimension of utility through intelligent
design that realizes easy access, walk-through convenience, ample seating
arrangements, handy storage space
and practical yet visually pleasing appointments. Core to the whole concept
is the open space created in the cabin's centre that encourages and
facilitates free and open interaction between all who ride in the Mazda5.
With an overall length of 4,505 mm (177 inches), width of 1,755 mm (69.1
inches), height of 1,615 mm (63.6 inches) and a wheelbase of 2,750 mm (108
inches), the Mazda5 manages to deliver the roomy comfort of a space wagon,
while
limiting overall size. For reference, the length exceeds the compact Mazda3
five door model by just 85 mm (3.35 inches), the height by 150 mm (5.91
inches); while the width is the same on both cars. Despite the long
wheelbase, the Mazda5
features an excellent minimum turning radius of just 5.3 meters, making it
remarkably easy for any driver to manoeuvre in tight situations.
Mazda5's large sliding doors on both sides are a first in this class. The
doors open smoothly and easily, and do not swing out too far, making them
easy to operate in parking spaces and other tight locations. Features that
make access to all seats very easy, even when loaded down with shopping
bags, infants, or in other
daily-life situations, include the wide sliding doors, the low and wide
side steps, and one-touch third row walk-in mechanism.
Particular effort went to ensuring maximum headroom and legroom while
providing a comfortably tall hip point for friends or family who sit in the
third row seats. This included overcoming a number of challenges such as
developing a low-profile fuel tank to realise
a low, flat cabin floor without sacrificing fuel tank integrity or capacity
for extended touring, as well as angling the rear roof pillar back toward
the liftgate to add extra head clearance while improving the vehicle´s
aerodynamic characteristics at the same time.
The second and third row seats can be easily arranged in a number of
flexible patterns to allow maximum efficiency in the use of space. In
addition to their long slide adjustment and reclining functions, the second
row seats each feature a handy double-fold mechanism. Design details to
achieve maximum comfort include a flat floor design that ensures maximum
legroom in both the second and third row seats. Folding down the second and
third row seatbacks creates an expansive luggage area with a virtually flat
floor.
In markets where offered, a karakuri seventh seat folds out from beneath
the cushion of the left-hand second row seat to provide seating for a
seventh passenger between the second row seats when the need arises.
Alternately, a karakuri utility box stowed beneath the cushion of the
right-hand seat in the second row can be folded out to occupy the same
space when added utility is the priority.
Accessibility
To ensure usability and ease of accessibility, painstaking research was
conducted that included attaching sensors to test subjects and running
simulations of the human body's actual movement when opening/closing the
door. This helped produce easy-to-operate sliding doors on both sides that
open 700 mm, wide enough to allow a parent to enter the vehicle while
carrying an infant. The walk-through cabin design and one-touch entry to
the third row further add to the ease of access.
Another product of extensive testing, the new plastic liftgate with
two-step stop mechanism, maximizes operational ease for users of all
heights and builds.
Convenient accessories
Furthering ease of use, the Mazda5 has an available advanced keyless
system, a first for Mazda outside of Japan. The system employs a
card-shaped device that one simply carries in a pocket or purse. When the
holder comes within close proximity of the car, the card-shaped transmitter
automatically communicates with
Mazda5's onboard system to allow the doors or liftgate to be locked or
unlocked, and the engine started or stopped without inserting
a key into a door or ignition keyhole. The system makes it convenient to
enter the car when one's hands are encumbered with shopping bags, or
children.
The development team also developed smart new audio and entertainment
systems with functionality and versatility that heightens the pleasure of
riding in the Mazda5.
In markets where available, a newly developed hard disk drive
(HDD) based audio system stores up to 3,000 of the user's favourite songs,
the equivalent of 300 to 500 CDs. The system supports fast and easy
searching for individual tracks by title, artist name,
or genre for instant access to the music that suits the moment.
An available rear entertainment system includes a seven-inch LCD display
and DVD player mounted on the ceiling that allows passengers in the second
and third row seats to enjoy watching
DVD movies, or to play CDs. Additionally, an auxiliary jack mounted in the
third row seat trim makes it possible to connect a game machine, or a video
camera for playback. A wireless remote
control makes it easy for passengers in any of the second or third row
seats to control the system and select a different song, movie chapter,
change volume, etc.
Craftsmanship
Attention to detail can be readily seen in the quality of the seat, floor,
and body designs and is a testament to the development team's eagerness to
have users experience the company's commitment to quality and finish the
instant a door on the Mazda5 is opened.
The Mazda5's fit and finish speaks of Mazda's determination to deliver high
quality throughout, right down to the small clearance tolerances for panel
matching. Of particular note is the unobtrusively smooth surface of the
body colour B-pillar between the front and sliding doors. Similarly, the
ridge lines and tracks for the sliding doors create a straight, clean
finish.
Additionally, clinical analysis of muscle movement when operating the gear
shift lever led to the development of a centre panel design that positions
the knob at an optimum angle that makes operation possible without bending
one's wrist.