Tuesday, February 27, 2001

Mazda AZ-Wagon Retail Prices

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (Sales tax not included)
(Unit: 1,000 yen)

Doors Drive Engine Grade Transmission Retail price (nationwide)
5 2WD DOHC VVT FM-G 5MT 914
Column 4AT 999
SOHC Turbo FM-TX Column 4AT 1,279
4WD DOHC VVT FM-G 5MT 1,026
Column 4AT 1,111
SOHC Turbo FM-TX Column 4AT 1,391

- Add 10,000 yen for the two-wheel-drive wintry-weather-enhanced model. All four-wheel-drive models are wintry-weather-enhanced.
- Add 50,000 yen for safety package (driver and passenger side SRS airbag system, four-wheel ABS with brake assisting function and front seatbelts with pretensioners.)

Primary Features AZ-Wagon FM-G, FM-TX

FM-G (Two-wheel-drive, 5-speed manual/4-speed automatic transmission model OR four-wheel-drive, 5-speed manual/4-speed automatic transmission model)
- Air conditioner, AM/FM radio tuner with an audio cassette deck, electrically-powered windows, keyless entry system with answering-back function, power steering, etc.
- Color-keyed door mirrors and outer door handles and front side ultraviolet-filtering windows
- Driver's seat heater and de-steaming door mirrors for the four-wheel-drive model
- Excellent fuel economy estimated at 22.5km/liter at Mode 10/15 (two-wheel-drive 5-speed manual transmission model) and "excellent" low exhaust emissions rating to meet the government's requirement for a 50% reduction in 2000
- Affordable prices of 914,000 yen for the two-wheel-drive 5-speed manual transmission model and 999,000 yen for the 4-speed column automatic transmission model
- Safety package including a driver and passenger side SRS* airbag system, four-wheel ABS with brake assisting function, front seatbelts with pretensioners as optional equipment

FM-TX (Two-wheel-drive/four-wheel-drive, 4-speed column automatic transmission model)
- Special four-halogen headlights, front**/side/rear** under spoilers, roof spoiler,** muffler ornament** and aluminum wheels equipped for a sporty look
- 2DIN-sized audio system with an MD/CD player, an audio cassette deck, an AM/FM radio tuner and four speakers including hanging quality rear speakers
- Classy seat cloths and leather door trims
- Driver- and passenger- side SRS airbag system, four-wheel ABS with brake assisting function and front seatbelts with pretensioners as standard equipment
* SRS: Supplemental Restraint System.
** Dealer option.

Two Special AZ-Wagon Versions

Mazda Motor Corporation is introducing two new models of the AZ-Wagon micro-mini vehicle, FM-G and FM-TX, today at Mazda Autozam dealerships throughout Japan.

Mazda FM-GMazda FM-TX

Mazda FM-G

Mazda FM-TX


The new Mazda FM-G includes air conditioning, an audio system, power windows and a keyless entry system as standard equipment all at an affordable price.

For example, the two-wheel-drive column-shift automatic transmission model costs only 999,000 yen.

the new FM-TX, featuring a turbo-charged engine, has a sporty look with aerodynamic accessories and classy cloth upholstery. It also comes equipped with a high-grade audio system with built-in MD/CD player.

Mazda expects to sell 550 units of the FM-G and FM-TX models monthly in the Japanese market.

MX Sport Tourer Primary Specifications

Dimensions Overall length 4,575 mm
Overall width 1,790 mm
Overall height 1,430 mm
Wheelbase 2,670 mm
Tread (front/rear) 1,550 mm/1,550 mm
No. of passengers 4 persons
Engine Type 2.0-liter 4-in-line S-VT direct-injection gasoline engine/electric motor
Suspension Suspension (front/rear) Multi-link suspension
Brakes Main brake system (front/rear) Front:Ventilated disk/Rear:Disk
Tires and wheels Dunlop Runflat System 225/45ZR20

MX Sport Tourer Packaging

Innovative Packaging: Revolutionary Convenience

The interior has a refined, sporty look and delivers exceptional functionality.

(1) Freestyle Door System
MX SPORT TOURER features a freestyle door system with no center pillars for easy access to the rear seating area and cargo area.

(2) Seat Functions and Arrangements/Cargo Space Utility
MX SPORT TOURER accommodates four adults comfortably. To make the occupants comfortable during long trips, the seats have a ventilation function and Mazda-unique comfort-enhancing structure. The front passenger seat can be folded down and used as a table, while the rear seats store away electrically to create a maximum cargo capacity of 710 liters and a fully flat floor. The rear hatch glass can be raised and lowered for easy access to the cargo area.

(3) Open-air Motoring
The wide-open vario-lamella roof slides forward and backward. When the rear portion opens, it feels like an open pickup vehicle, providing similar functionality and a free and open atmosphere.

(4) Computer Technology
MX SPORT TOURER features the latest computer technologies, including a keyless entry system that reacts to an ID card, simple and convenient for safe and easy use. An electrically powered pop-up display incorporates an easy-to-read 10.4-inch screen. It can be removed and used as a cordless device (with Blue-tooth standards) for easy Internet access or e-mailing.

* Officially called "Salon International de l'Automobile," the Geneva Motor Show has been yearly held since 1907. The 2001 exhibition will run from Thursday, March 1 through Sunday, March 11, following the February 27 and 28 press conference days.

MX Sport Tourer Driving Pleasure

Driving Pleasure of Providing Feeling of "Oneness between Car and Driver"

MX SPORT TOURER employs a powerful and efficient front-wheel-drive 2.0-liter S-VT direct-injection gasoline engine and an electric rear-wheel-drive motor and offers three types of driving modes:

- Economical front-wheel-drive gasoline engine mode for normal onroad conditions
- Zero-emission rear-wheel-drive electric motor mode for urban areas
- Gripping four-wheel-drive mode for highways and rugged terrain

Additionally, pressing the "Zoom-Zoom" button on the steering wheel activates the electric motor, generating additional drive power to pass other cars in traffic, offering the driving pleasure, barely found in existing hybrid vehicles.

MX SPORT TOURER uses a newly developed four-wheel multi-link suspension and M-SDS (Mazda Skyhook Damping Suspension) dampers that continuously vary attenuation, optimizing body motion.

Mazda's original toroidal CVT for front-engine, front-wheel-drive models conveys power efficiently to the drive system, and a wing shift mechanism on the steering wheel column allows the driver to switch to manual shift operation, if necessary.

The 370-mm diameter disc brakes (six pad holes for front and four pad holes for rear), along with 20-inch tires, generate exceptional braking force. Mazda's Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) are electrically controlled with the regenerative braking system that helps recharge the battery of the rear motor, facilitating better fuel economy and safety.

Its dynamic ability in running, cornering and braking delivers a feeling of "oneness between car and driver."

MX Sport Tourer Design

Design: Excellent Mix of Styling and Functionality

1) Exterior Design

MX SPORT TOURER has stunning athletic and sporty styling that reflects Mazda's design DNA.

The model's wide, lowered front suggests exceptional driving performance and handling stability. The exterior features a distinctive, dynamic rear, freestyle doors with no center pillars, vario-lamella structure that lets the roof retract from the front or the rear for open-air driving, and large wheels that facilitate "responsive handling and driving performance."

2) Interior Design

The design theme for the interior is "duet sports wagon." It incorporates a sports car cockpit area and a flexible cargo area for "superb functionality."

The snug cockpit features an easy-access layout with separate controllers and indicators. Aligned horizontally, four round meters add to the sporty look, while controllers are located in an aluminum center panel. The sporty seats incorporate a ventilation function and generic belt anchors, providing easy driving and riding posture. The cockpit of MX SPORT TOURER delivers a "fun to drive" and "sport feeling," found in other Mazda products.

By lowering the rear window and sliding the vario-lamella roof forward, the silver and orange two-toned cargo area can haul objects larger than the inside cargo. For more cargo space, the user can fold down the rear seat using a cargo area controller button. The cargo area also is equipped with tie-down hooks to secure loads.

Additionally, the interior incorporates a parcel tray that can close off the view of the cluttered cargo area.

New Millennium MX Sport Tourer

Challenge for New Millennium

New Mazda MX Sport Tourer

New Millennium Mazda MX Sport Tourer


MX SPORT TOURER epitomizes Mazda's "stylish," "insightful" and "spirited" brand personality and the company's commitment to bringing to market environmentally-friendly technology.

Highlights of MX SPORT TOURER are:

1: Sports Car Styling and Functionality

This innovative model has athletic sporty styling and innovative functions for people who enjoy the great outdoors and active lifestyles.

2: Feeling of 'Oneness between Driver and Car'

It features a new hybrid four-wheel-drive system, consisting of a lightweight, high-power front-wheel-drive 2.0-liter Sequential Valve Timing (S-VT) direct-injection gasoline engine and an electrically-controlled rear-wheel-drive electric motor. The electric motor offers clean and economical driving. Using a "Zoom-Zoom" steering wheel switch, drivers can experience fast and safe acceleration.

3: Packaging Innovation

MX SPORT TOURER has a freestyle door system with no center pillar, flexible seat functions and arrangements and wide-open vario-lamella roof that retracts from the front or the rear.

MX Sport Tourer concept model

Mazda Motor Corporation is showcasing the "MX SPORT TOURER" concept model at the 71st Geneva Motor Show.*

Mazda MX Sport Tourer
Mazda MX Sport Tourer concept model

MX SPORT TOURER is full of Mazda's innovative ideas, including latest automotive technologies, ranging from a unique hybrid drive system to a toroidal Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This concept model reflects Mazda's spirit and commitment to environmentally-friendly technology. For the first time in Europe, Mazda is also displaying RX-8, the new generation four-door sports car, at the Geneva show.

Monday, February 26, 2001

Mazda Announces Result

Mazda Motor Corporation announced today the final number of applications accepted. It reached 2,213 to the targeted number of 1,800 and the company has already closed applications for this program.

The early retirement incentive of the program will total approximately 34 billion yen. Mazda will recognize this amount in the fiscal year 2000 ending March 31, 2001 as an extraordinary loss. The impact of a larger number of applicants does not require a revision in Mazda's financial forecast for the fiscal year 2000 (from April 1, 2000 to March 31, 2001) that was released at the time of financial result announcement for the first half of the fiscal year 2000 on November 17, 2000.

Mark Fields, president of Mazda Motor Corporation, commented on this result, stating "We believe that achieving the targeted number within the day is due to the sufficient notification period given to applicants, and the provision of enough time for them to make their decision. We understand the seriousness of each employees' decision, which include mixed emotions and various circumstances, in applying for the plan."

"We believe we are off to a good start in executing the mid-term plan by successfully concluding the ERSP, which was the first major objectives outlined in our plan. We are now committed to make our maximum efforts in realizing the other objective containing the mid-term plan." he added.


FYI:
Outline of Early Retirement Special Program Application
1) No. of retirees solicited 1,800 (Employees holding an indirect position)
2) Eligibility Employees of 40 years or older with an experience of indirect positions for 10 years or longer, including up to 350 employees of 30 years or older with an experience of indirect positions for 5 years or longer
A total of approximately 10,000 eligible employees
3) Application period From February 19, 2001 to March 5, 2001
(Applications closed when the targeted figure of 1,800 reached. )
4) Retirement timing March 30, 2001

Monday, February 19, 2001

Mazda MPV Retail Prices

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (Sales Tax not included) (Unit: 1,000 yen)

Mazad MPV photos
Mazad MPV Suggested Retail Prices

Drive
System
Engine
Type
Grade Tokyo/Nagoya/
Osaka/Hiroshima
Sapporo Sendai Yamaguchi Fukuoka
2WD 2.5-liter
V6
VS 2,798 2,843 2,819 2,816 2,823
4WD 3,038 3,083 3,059 3,056 3,063

- Add 228,000 yen to purchase the DVD navigation system.
- All models are wintry-weather-equipped. The four-wheel-drive wintry-weather model is equipped with a large battery, ice-resistant windshield wiper motors and ice-defrosting side mirrors.

Mazda MPV 2.5-liter V-6 VS

Primary Features

Mazda MPV V-6 VS
Mazda MPV V-6 VS

Exterior
- 16-inch bright aluminum wheels*
- Shiny chrome-plated side mirrors*
- Shiny chrome-plated liftgate garnish

Interior
- Genuine leather seat upholstery*
- Genuine leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Wood grain panels
- Driver and passenger side vanity mirrors (with light)
- Overhead console
- Automatic cruising control
- Computer-aided touring system
- Bright inner handles and parking brake release button

Audio System
- AM/FM electronic tuner, full-logic audio cassette deck, CD player, power amplifier and high-quality nine-speaker sound system

Safety Equipment
- SRS side airbag system with head protection function (driver and passenger sides)
- Water-repellant windshield and side mirrors

* VS-exclusive equipment.
Note: DVD navigation system compatible to Mazda Telematics is available as a factory option.

New Deluxe VS MPV Model

Mazda Motor Corporation is introducing the deluxe "VS" model of the stylish MPV minivan today at Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealerships throughout Japan.

Mazda Deluxe VS MPV Model

Mazda Deluxe VS MPV Model


"VS," which stands for "Vintage and Sports," is a special model to commemorate the MPV's selection as winner of the RJC's Best Minivan* award for 2000. The VS, based on the 2.5-liter V6 engine Sport model, incorporates a number of enhancements to add a quality feeling. To deliver an extra touch of class and comfort, the interior includes beige genuine leather seats and a genuine leather-wrapped steering wheel, while its exterior features 16-inch bright aluminum wheels and shiny chrome-plated side mirrors. Other features include the new concept audio system, a computer-aided touring system to track fuel economy, distance to empty, outside temperature and other information -- and advanced safety features.

Epitomizing Mazda's "stylish," "insightful" and "spirited" brand personality, the MPV has received a warm reception from customers for its stylish exterior and flexible seating. Average monthly domestic sales in 2000 were 4,238 units, exceeding the company's expected monthly sales volume of 3,000. Sales, for the year totaled 50,861 units.

* Commemorating its tenth anniversary, RJC (Automotive Researchers and Journalists Conference of Japan) set up this special award for domestic and imported minivans sold in Japan in 2000.

Thursday, February 15, 2001

Capella Wagon 2.5-liter V6 V-RX Sport

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (Sales tax not included)(Unit: 1,000 yen)
Drive
System
Engine Grade Transmission Tokyo,
Hiroshima,
Osaka,
Nagoya,
Yamaguchi
Sapporo Sendai Fukuoka
FF 1800
DOHC
SV 5MT 1,710 1,737 1,729 1,719
EC-AT 1,798 1,825 1,817 1,807
2000
DOHC
SX Activematic 2,067 2,094 2,086 2,076
SX Sport 2,178 2,205 2,197 2,187
4WD 2000
DOHC
SE EC-AT 2,198 2,225 2,217 2,207
V6 2500
DOHC
V-RX 2,348 2,375 2,367 2,357
V-RX Sport 2,498 2,525 2,517 2,507

- Add 15,000 yen for the wintry-weather-equipped 1.8-liter SV wagon model. All other models are wintry-weather-equipped with no price addition.

Capella Wagon Primary Updates

Mazda Capella Wagon V-RX Sport

Mazda Capella Wagon V-RX Sport


1. New added models to enhance a sporty feeling

- All-time four-wheel-drive and 2.5-liter V6 engine "VR-X" and "VR-X Sport" models
- 2.0-liter four-in-line front engine and front wheel drive "SX Sport" model

2. Sporty interior and exterior look for new 2.5-Liter V-RX Sport and 2.5-Liter SX Sport

Exterior
- Blackout headlamps (black-colored on the bezel portion)
- Black door sashes (for all models including the new models)
Interior
- Genuine leather-wrapped Nardi steering wheel (black)
- Black and gray two-tone colored instrument panel
- Carbon-stylized instrument panel, power window switch bezels and center console panel
- Black-accented metal mesh seats

3. Popular features as standard equipment

- Fully automatic climate control system
- Keyless entry system with answering function
- New concept audio system that allows customers to add or replace audio components
- Anti-ultraviolet dark-tinted glass for rear door, rear quarter and reargate windows (except 4WD-SE)

4. New Outer Panel Color

Platinum Silver Metallic (all former colors are also available.)

5. Grade Revision (integration)

Two-wheel-drive SE --> SX.
Four-wheel-drive S-RX --> V-RX.

Mazda Capella Wagon Sport Series

Mazda Motor Corporation is introducing two new sport models of the Capella Wagon -- a four-wheel-drive 2.5-liter V6 "V-RX Sport" and a 2.0-liter four-in-line "SX Sport." Also, Mazda is revising the entire series with upgraded equipment at reasonable and affordable prices. The new Capella Wagon series goes on sale today at Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealerships throughout Japan.

Mazda Capella Wagon

Mazda Capella Wagon


The Capella Wagon series offers a roomy, comfortable interior and flexible seating, world-class safety features, distinctive design and responsive handling and performance.

The all-time four-wheel-drive "VR-X Sport" model boasts a 2.5-liter V6 engine with maximum output of 147kW (200 PS), and a sporty interior and exterior. Powered with a 2.0-liter four-in-line engine, "SX Sport" model also features a sporty interior and exterior.

All Capella Wagon series models include the popular fully automatic climate control system as standard equipment and other enhancements.

Enhancements don't necessarily mean a higher price. The new "V-RX Sport" model, for instance, costs 2,498,000 to 252,000 yen less than the former V-RX model.*

Mazda expects to sell 800 units of the new Capella Wagon monthly in the Japanese market.

*Valid in Tokyo, Hiroshima, Osaka, Nagoya and Yamaguchi areas.

Tuesday, February 13, 2001

Mazda's R&D on FC-EV

The History of Mazda's R&D on FC-EV

- 1991 Mazda initiated the basic study using the fuel cell stacks rented from Ballard

Mazda FC-EV

Mazda FC-EV


- 1992, July Mazda developed its first drivable fuel cell prototype on a small cart-type chassis with PEFC stacks supplied by Ballard, and a metal hydride hydrogen tank.

fuel cell prototype Mazda

fuel cell prototype Mazda


- 1997, October Mazda completed the development of a new fuel cell system by itself. The performance of the system was highly improved by modifying the electrode and catalyst.

highly improved Mazda Premacy

highly improved Mazda Premacy


- 1997, December Mazda developed the Demio FC-EV, which incorporated a unique Mazda fuel cell system and metal hydride hydrogen tank. Mazda conducted the test run for the vehicle on the premises of Mazda Headquarters.

Mazda Premacy RX-8

Mazda Premacy RX-8


- 1998, April Mazda participated in the fuel cell alliance established by Ford, DaimlerChrysler, and Ballard, through its close relationship with Ford.

first-generation FC-EV

first-generation FC-EV


- 1999, October Mazda developed the second-generation Demio FC-EV. It incorporated a fuel cell developed by the fuel cell alliance, and the metal hydride hydrogen tank. The volume of the fuel cell system has been decreased by 20% compared to the first-generation Demio FC-EV.

Major specifications Premacy FC-EV

Major specifications of the Premacy FC-EV are as follows:

new Mazda Premacy FC-EV

new Mazda Premacy FC-EV


Vehicle
- Base model Mazda Premacy
- Body 5-door
- Overall length 4,350 mm
- Overall width 1,695 mm
- Overall height 1,605 mm
- Wheelbase 2,670 mm
- Curb weight 1,850 kg
- Fuel Methanol

Power unit (Fuel cell)
- Type Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell with Methanol Reformer

Electric motor
- Type AC Induction
- Max. power 65 kw (88 ps)

Mazda Premacy FC-EV

Mazda has developed the "Premacy FC-EV," a new fuel cell electric prototype vehicle based on the Mazda Premacy. Mazda, which has received the permission of the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, will begin test runs of the vehicle on public roads for the first time in Japan on February 15.

Mazda Premacy FC-EV

Mazda Premacy FC-EV


The five-seat Premacy FC-EV is powered by a methanol reformer fuel cell system and electric motor. The components, including fuel cell stacks and reformer unit, have been miniaturized to be mounted under the floor. Through this effort, Mazda successfully realized a space for five adults without major structural modifications of the base model. Mazda will investigate the potential of using a methanol reformer fuel cell system with this prototype.

five-seat Mazda Premacy FC-EV

five-seat Mazda Premacy FC-EV


With the license plate issued by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, Mazda can now operate the Premacy FC-EV on public roads for the first time in Japan as the fuel cell vehicles. Using the Premacy FC-EV, Mazda will participate in the joint project for the test run of fuel cell vehicles, with DaimlerChrysler Japan Holding, Ltd. and Nippon Mitsubishi Oil Co. This project is subsidized by the Pertroleum Energy Center, the Agency of Natural Resources and Energy, and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

fuel cell electric prototype vehicle Mazda Premacy

new fuel cell electric prototype vehicle Mazda Premacy


During the test runs, the three companies plan to investigate the driving performance, fuel economy and emissions of the fuel cell vehicles. Nippon Mitsubishi Oil is providing the fuel infrastructure. The test runs will be conducted on public roads and facilities around Yokohama City, Kanagawa prefecture.

Mazda began its study of fuel cell technology in 1991, identifying it as one of the most promising candidates among the alternative fuel sources. Mazda fabricated its first fuel cell vehicle composed of a cart-type chassis and PEFC (Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell) supplied by Ballard Power Systems, in early 1992.

In November 1997, Mazda developed a high-performance fuel cell system for hydrogen fuel and built a prototype vehicle, Demio FC-EV. This vehicle was tested on the premises of Mazda Hiroshima Headquarters in December 1997. In October 1999, Mazda developed the second generation Demio FC-EV, which incorporates the fuel cell system developed by the fuel cell alliance mentioned below. Through these projects, Mazda has accumulated vital knowledge to bring to the Premacy FC-EV vehicle project.

Mazda has been working with Ford Motor Company on research and development of the FC-EV. In April 1998, through its close relationship with Ford, Mazda began participating in the fuel cell alliance established by Ford Motor Company, DaimlerChrysler and Ballard Power Systems. The Premacy FC-EV has been developed in cooperation with Ford's TH!NK group (*).

(*) TH!NK is a brand of Ford Motor Company which concentrates on R&D, production and sales of alternative fuel vehicles. TH!NK also participates in the fuel cell alliance on behalf of Ford.

Thursday, February 8, 2001

Mazda distribution business in France

Mazda Motor Europe (MME) today announced that Mazda Motor Corporation has concluded an agreement to purchase the Mazda distribution business in France from Inchcape plc. With an initial capital of 2 million franc (30 million yen) Mazda will establish in February a new company in Paris named Mazda Automobiles France fully owned by Mazda Motor Corporation. The company will start operations from early April 2001.

Mazda distribution business in France
Mazda in France

In order to increase operational efficiency of this new distributor, Mazda is studying the possibility of sharing some operations with Ford to maximise synergy.

The decision to establish Mazda's own distributor in France is part of a series of management initiatives to strengthen European operations overall in order to increase market share.

Mazda took over distribution in Spain and Italy in 2000 and in Portugal in 1995. For many years it has successfully operated Mazda distribution in Germany, Europe's largest market. Towards the end of last year, Mazda established two new dealerships in Russia, one in Moscow and the other in Ekaterinberg, in addition to the existing dealership in St. Petersberg.

Jan Brentebraten, President of Mazda Motor Europe, said: "The development in France is in line with Mazda's strategy of taking control of distribution in those markets where direct manufacturer involvement is most appropriate to maximise growth opportunities.

"France, a large and important market, requires marketing investment that is more appropriate from a manufacturer than an independent distributor. It also allows us to increase cost-effectiveness and efficiency and to maximise synergies with other Mazda operations.

"As a result of Inchcape's expertise, Mazda already has an established reputation in France for delivering outstanding levels of satisfaction to our customers, consistent with our performance across Europe. Independent surveys consistently show Mazda as one of the top three brands for sales and service satisfaction in France. We will build on this established strength so our business will grow over time through a combination of investment in new products, marketing and our distribution network."

Thursday, February 1, 2001

Mazda exclusive models. Web-Tuned Factory

Please note that these Internet-exclusive models are available ONLY in Japan. From anywhere in the world, customers can access the contents of the Web tune Factory site or contact a dealer in Japan thorough Internet. However, Mazda and its dealers in Japan cannot accept through Web tune Factory a request involving any exporting action. We gratefully appreciate your understanding.

Mazda 2 tuning

Mazda 2 tuning


Mazda 6 blue tuning

Mazda 6 blue tuning


Mazda RX-8 tuning

Mazda RX-8 tuning

Mazda Web-Tuned Factory website

The "Web-Tuned Factory" website enables customers to create a model that isn't available at dealerships. There are 4,160 different combination on web-tuned@Roadster and 912 different combination on web-tuned@S-WAGON by selecting engine, transmission, exterior and interior color with customers preference.

Mazda RX-8 tuning

Mazda RX-8 tuning


For example, web-exclusive package models include:

- Mazda Roadster with an economical 1.6-liter engine and luxurious tan genuine leather seats
- Mazda Roadster with a luxurious VS model interior and exterior specifications and the smooth-handling RS model suspension
- Mazda Famillia S-WAGON with cost-effective 1.5-liter engine and the Sport 20 model exterior specifications

Mazda Web-Tuned Factory
Mazda Web-Tuned Factory / RX-8 RS6

In addition, "web-tune@Roadster" gives Internet customers the chance to order the web-exclusive Sunburst Yellow color.** Or they can order a "web-tuned@S-WAGON" with a special seat fabric option.

The web-tuned@Roadster features Sony's Xplod®*** high-power audio system. Incorporating superior sonic imaging, this audio system creates a pleasant soundstage for occupants.

Also, Internet customers can add dealer option items to their models. Since the price of the customized model in Built-to-Order is lower thanks to reduced sales cost , customers can purchase a model with their preferable specification in more affordable price.

Mazda will tie up with Sony Style.Com Japan in this project on its EC site "Sony Style (http://www.jp.sonystyle.com/)." The company provides customizable product and Mazda jointly promote the fun of customization on the web site. "Sony Style" plans to set up special site for web-tuned@Roadster in the mid of February and show a popularity poll by user on the web-tuned@Roadsters which "Sony Style" customize.

Mazda's Internet marketing efforts brought about several achievements in 2000. Mazda became Japan's first automaker to provide customers with e-mail trade-in inspection and credit authorization services for the web-tuned@DEMIO, Mazda's first Internet-edition product introduced in January. Using a network of dealerships or a database on the Internet, the company began to help Internet customers find a new or used Mazda vehicle in July. Moreover, Mazda set up a permanent website to study customers' needs, where registered members can enjoy various membership services, such as providing information on car maintenance, outdoor activities, Mazda's giveaway campaigns, etc.

The idea for the Web-Tuned Factory site originated from a customer's suggestion. "Web-Tuned Factory is a revolutionary new business model," says Mark Fields, President of Mazda Motor Corporation. "We will continue to strive for the "new ideas that stir your emotions," to enhance the relationship with our customers, and to make customers' lives easier and more fun."

Notes:
* Available only on web-tuned@Roadster.
** Sunburst Yellow is the outer panel color exclusive to the web-tuned@Roadster models. Only first 450 customers who schedule a dealer-site meeting for their web-tuned@Roadster by March 19 are eligible for this special color.
*** Xplod® is a registered trademark of Sony Corporation.

Build Your Mazda Roadster

Buying a new Mazda Roadster or S-WAGON just became easier, thanks to Mazda's new "Web-Tuned Factory"!

Build Your Mazda Roadster
Build Your Mazda Roadster

Effective Friday, February 2, visitors to the website can:

- Read about and choose the features they want
- Get an estimated price
- And schedule an appointment with a sales representative at the dealer of their choice

And, using their computer, they can do all of this - and more - from the convenience of their home or office. After reaching a decision, a customer visits the Mazda dealer of his choice to complete the "paperwork," including contract authorization, registration and delivery appointment. The Mazda dealer then forward the customer's order to Mazda for production.

"Mazda is the first Japanese automaker to launch a 'build-to-order' (BTO) system using the Internet," says Mark Fields, President of Mazda Motor Corporation. "We're calling our build-to-order models web-tuned@Roadster and web-tuned@S-WAGON."

Through "Web-Tuned Factory," customers can:

- ACCESS INFORMATION CONVENIENTLY - Customers can pull down and read about features, specifications and prices.
- ARRANGE TRADE-IN INSPECTION AND CREDIT APPROVAL*- Once customers get an estimated price at the website, they receive an ID number automatically. This number enables a customer to get information on a trade-in inspection and credit approval on their own web page.
- GET UPDATES ON PRODUCTION AND SHIPPING DATES - After completing the purchase contract, customers can check the status of the production and shipping of their car on the website.
- DELETE PACKAGE ITEMS, REDUCING THE PRICE - The BTO system lowers distribution and sales transaction costs, enabling Mazda and its dealers to offer lower retail prices.
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