Newsletter
16 July 2010
Subaru STi goes auto!
Subaru’s 2011 Impreza WRX STI will be available with a five speed automatic gearbox when it arrives here in September.
It is the first time Subaru’s performance flagship model has been available in New Zealand with an automatic, which will have steering column mounted paddle shifts. Until now the STI has only had a manual change transmission, which will continue in six speed form.
“The introduction of an automatic transmission will generate wider appeal for those in search of high performance and profound stability without compromising everyday driving comfort,” said Graeme Woodlands, the Managing Director of Subaru of New Zealand. “These people spend a lot of time in city traffic during the week and appreciate the auto’s ease of operation.”
And for 2011 the STI will see the return of a sedan model with a large rear wing. For the last three years it has only been available as a hatchback.
In other changes the STI will come with a new stiffer wide track suspension and front bumper which integrates into the front wheel arches. The latest STI will sit on new design alloy wheels.
In the cabin Bluetooth hands free calling and Bluetooth audio streaming will be standard and there will be USB and auxiliary connection for iPod and MP3 players.
There will also be changes to the Impreza WRX for 2011, although it will still only be available with a manual gearbox.
It will have a wider body more akin to the STI to set it apart from the standard Impreza models. Like the STI it will come with Bluetooth capability and USB and auxiliary ports.
Performance of both cars 2.5 litre turbocharged engines will be similar to the current WRX and STI models. Full technical details, specification and pricing will be announced at the time of the launch.
8th June 2010
Record May for Mazda with Revamped Mazda2 on the way
Mazda New Zealand has notched up a new record, posting its highest ever market share for the month of May with 8.0 percent and achieving its strongest sales yet of the CX-7 crossover.
Mazda has sold 2,590 units in New Zealand so far in 2010, 9.4 percent ahead of the same period last year cementing the company’s fourth position in the market.
Leading the charge for the month was the CX-7 SUV crossover with a record 65 units sold. Mazda launched a new front wheel drive GSX variant of the popular crossover in April and it has proven to be extremely popular with New Zealand motorists, making up half of the May sales.
The Mazda3 and Mazda6 continue to remain popular choices also with both vehicles appearing in the Vehicle Industry Association’s Top 15 selling models for the year so far with fourth and seventh place respectively. The Mazda6 continues to lead the medium four cylinder segment since it was first launched in 2002.
Andrew Clearwater, Managing Director, Mazda New Zealand said the company is pleased with the 2010 results so far and is focused on maintaining momentum through the winter months starting with the launch of the revamped Mazda2 in June.
“The light vehicle segment has become increasingly competitive and although the Mazda2 has always performed well here, the 2010 model features a small number of mid-cycle enhancements which we believe will further strengthen its appeal,” said Clearwater.
Dubbed Mazda’s ‘Super Little Model’, the Mazda2’s most striking change will be the new front grille which follows the design cues of Mazda’s other second-generation vehicles. Sport models convey high performance with a fin-type grille and a jet-black finish, while Classic models adopt a body-coloured bar in the upper grille. Both variants also feature a newly-designed bumper with updated side intakes, and a wider lower-grille.
Inside, silver finishing has been applied to key contact areas including the parking brake button, inner door handles and air conditioning dials. Sport variants also now feature a premium solid black seat trim complemented by red pin-striping and piped-stitching.
Safety has been improved on the Classic model with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) becoming standard across both models.
Every new Mazda2 will come standard with mazdacare to ensure the vehicle continues to perform in optimum condition. mazdacare comprises Mazda Genuine Factory Warranty and Mazda On Call Roadside Assistance for a three year, unlimited kilometre period and Genuine Mazda Servicing for three years/100,000 km (whichever occurs first).
Available in nine exterior colours: Black Mica, Highlight Silver Metallic, Icy Blue Metallic, Spirited Green Metallic, Metropolitan Grey Mica, Aurora Blue Metallic, Cool White and firm order only Sparkling Gold Mica and Passion Orange Mica.
The 2010 Mazda2 Range
$22,695, Mazda2 Classic 5MT
$23,650, Mazda2 Classic 4AT
$24,445, Mazda2 Sport 5MT
$25,845, Mazda2 Sport 4AT
1st June 2010
Impreza Crossover Vehicle arriving
Increased ride height, a fresh new look and extra features are turning attention to Subaru’s newest Symmetrical All Wheel Drive variant, the Impreza XV.
Positioned as a “Compact Outback” the 2011 all new Impreza XV is on sale in New Zealand late July.
The Impreza XV – Crossover Vehicle – Rides higher than other normally aspirated Impreza’s with 185mm ground clearance to provide a higher “command” drive position like its big brother, the Subaru Outback.
“In this case we have extended the “crossover” concept, using one of the most agile, dynamic hatchbacks on the market” said Graeme Woodlands, the Managing Director of Subaru of New Zealand.
“We see the Impreza XV complementing the other Impreza models, like the Outback successfully does with the Legacy.”
Impreza XV is aimed at the “active and adventurous” audience. With its superb handling and control on all road conditions the XV offers urban drivers the perfect vehicle for city commuting combined with the capability of an SUV.
“By using the Impreza hatch as the platform car, Subaru has created a vehicle that enables people to mix five day a week commuting with an active weekend adventure lifestyle,” said Mr Woodlands.
The core Impreza chassis, full-time symmetrical All Wheel Drive, low-slung Boxer engine, symmetrical drive train, enhanced suspension setup and elevated ground clearance all combine to deliver superior control on tarmac, gravel and light off road duties compared to other crossovers.
The Impreza XV provides better traction and safety than its two wheel drive rivals for easy access to ski field car parks, that favourite mountain biking venue, fishing spot or even just surefooted driving stability on wet and slippery city roads.
Bluetooth has been integrated to allow latest generation i-pod, MP3 or mobile phones to stream music directly to the 10-speaker audio system. Bluetooth integration also incorporates hands free calling. Audio, Bluetooth hands free and cruise control are all conveniently situated on the steering wheel.
With the choice of a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox, the Impreza XV will sell from $35,990.
Easily distinguishable from the other models in the Impreza range, the Impreza XV comes with unique flared wheel arches, exclusive front and rear bumpers, front fog lights, roof rails and the higher 185 mm ground clearance appealing to customers looking for something that stands out and represents an all-round package.
“The crossover type of vehicle appeals to Kiwis and the Impreza XV will suit people who don’t need a car as big as the Outback, but still want the versatility of a crossover,” said Mr Woodlands.
The higher ride height also provides a higher seating position, making Impreza XV easy to get in and out of. The rear doors open at nearly right angles and combined with the vertically angled c-pillars the XV provides excellent rear seat access.
The maximum 5-star ANCAP safety rating is attained, based on the current Impreza, which is the highest rated ANCAP tested passenger car with a maximum 5-star Occupant Safety Rating and 4 (out of a maximum 4-star) Pedestrian Safety Rating and aggregate ANCAP score of 62.42 out of a possible 73.
Apart from its fulltime All Wheel Drive, the Impreza XV’s other standard active safety features which are designed to avoid an accident if at all possible include VDC stability and traction control, four wheel disc ABS brakes with EBD and Brake Assist and well weighted rack and pinion steering for positive response and feel.
In a collision, protection is provided by six air bags, Subaru’s patented ring shaped reinforcement frame body construction technology, and anti intrusion beams in the doors.
In a severe frontal impact the low-slung “Boxer” engine is designed to slide beneath the cabin floor.
The Impreza XV is powered by a two litre 110 kW and 196 Nm fuel injected motor with variable valve timing. The automatic has a combined fuel consumption of 8.8 litres/100 kilometres and 8.9 litres/100 kilometres for the manual. Combined CO2 emissions for the automatic are 208 grams/kilometre and 210 grams/kilometre for the manual.
The McPherson strut front and double wishbone rear suspension has been revised with the higher ground clearance and the Impreza XV sits on 16-inch alloy wheels with 205/60 R16 tyres.
Standard features include a height and telescopically adjustable steering column and a height adjustable driver’s seat. The 10-speaker CD sound system has USB connection and an auxiliary jack point for MP3 and iPod connection.
The remote central locking includes an immobiliser security system. Security is enhanced by the fitting of unique DataDots to all major components. Over the past five years, Datadots and advanced engine immobiliser technology have been instrumental in all but stopping thefts of NZ new Subaru. Since 2004, every NZ New Subaru has been fitted with Datadots, which are an incredibly effective deterrent for professional car thieves.
The headlights have an auto off function. Climate control air conditioning is standard together with power mirrors and windows.
Split folding rear seats provide an extended cargo area, which has its own security blind. The steering wheel and gear lever are leather wrapped and there is a fuel consumption trip computer.
The manual gearbox model also has hill assist to aid starting on hills in either first or reverse gear.
The Impreza XV comes with a three year unlimited kilometres warranty.
6 May 2010
Another strong month for Mazda
2010 continues to be a great year for Mazda New Zealand who is celebrating its second-best April on record with a market share of 8 per cent.
The stellar result continues to put Mazda a clear fourth in the market with sales of 455 vehicles for the month.
“April is traditionally a tough month for the industry so we’re absolutely thrilled with the result,” said Andrew Clearwater, Managing Director, Mazda New Zealand. “We’re particularly delighted with our CX-7 crossover’s performance. We launched a new GSX, front wheel drive variant in April and it’s already proven to be extremely popular with motorists.”
Over two thirds of Mazda’s CX-7 sales for the month were of the GSX variant. The recently revamped Mazda6 also had a fantastic month in April, once again leading the medium four-cylinder segment.
The industry overall recorded 5,688 new vehicle registrations in April. Passenger segment recorded the highest increase for the year so far with 30% improvement over April last year.
28 April 2010
Legacy gets safety Grand Prix
Subaru’s latest Legacy model has been awarded the Safety “GRANDPRIX 09/10” in Japan’s New Car Assessment Programme for the 2009 financial year which ends 31 March 2010.
This is the third consecutive year Subaru has received the honours, after the Impreza was awarded “GRANDPRIX” for 2007, and the Forester and Exiga were awarded “Excellent Car” for fiscal 2008.
The Legacy is the only vehicle to be awarded the GRANDPRIX 09/10 by JNCAP. It was rated as the safest passenger car in the collision safety performance tests for driver’s and front passenger’s seats as well as pedestrian head protection performance testing.
The Legacy reached level 4 in the rear seat passengers’ protection performance evaluation during a frontal offset collision test, and level 4 in the whiplash injury protection performance evaluation test respectively. Both tests were newly-adopted evaluations this year.
The Ministry of Land Infrastructure and Transport and the National Agency for Automotive Safety conduct new car assessment every year aimed at encouraging the use of safe automobiles by increasing users’ interests in automobile safety and by promoting the development of safer cars by manufacturers.
This award adds to a string of safety awards previously gained by the Subaru Legacy, and further establishes its global status as one of the safest passenger cars on the market. It was recently awarded 2010 “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) in the US, and gained 5-stars for occupant safety in the latest round of crashworthiness testing by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP). It also received a 5-star rating in the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP).
For Subaru, it is essential to enhance not only “Passive Safety” but also to pursue “Active Safety”. Subaru is committed to offer confidence as well as driving excitement to its customers, with a combination of its original Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system and Boxer Engine.
The awards list features winners in pricing and vehicle type categories, as well as special award winners for design, versatility and brand expression.
"We are thrilled the 2010 Outback has been recognised by Ward's Auto in their 2010 Auto Interior of the Year Awards," said David Sullivan, Car Line Manager, Subaru of America, Inc.
"During the design process, we spoke with numerous customers about what they wanted in a vehicle and we used their feedback to develop a car that is not only comfortable, but also includes interior features such as an electronic parking brake to open up console space and 60/40 reclining rear seatbacks.
A team of eight Ward's editors evaluated 40 vehicles that have either all-new or significantly upgraded interiors this year. The vehicles - both car and truck - were divided into segments, with one winner named in each category.
Judging criteria included aesthetics and design harmony, comfort, driver information, ergonomics, fit and finish, materials, safety and overall value.
"For years, the focus on safety and functionality has given us drab, uninspired vehicle interiors," said Ward's AutoWorld Editor-in-Chief Drew Winter. "This year's winners show style and original design is becoming as important inside the vehicle as it already is to the sheet metal outside. The new Subaru Outback is an efficiently designed package that delivers more room for passengers, more cargo space and an extra 10 cm of rear-seat legroom, compared with the old Outback," Winter continued.
16 April 2010
Mazda adds to CX-7 range
Mazda knew it was onto a good thing with the CX-7 crossover and has further highlighted this by adding a new CX-7 front wheel drive variant to its model lineup. With a 2.5L engine, the new addition will deliver the fuel economy of a smaller vehicle while retaining the exhilarating driving performance of the CX-7.
The new model features outstanding styling, excellent fuel economy and responsive handling and performance in a GSX grade variant. The new model will sit alongside the 2.3L DISI All-Wheel Drive Limited model.
Andrew Clearwater, Managing Director, Mazda New Zealand says while the first CX-7 model was introduced to New Zealand in 2006 and has proven to be a popular choice, the new model will expand Mazda’s presence in the SUV category and engage new vehicle buyers.
“We are anticipating the CX-7 GSX will do very well. We recognise the diverse needs of Kiwi motorists and believe this car is the perfect compromise for those wanting the feel of a sports car and the versatility that is associated with an SUV,” says Clearwater.
The CX-7 GSX features the MZR 2.5L engine as seen in the award-winning Mazda6. The engine delivers maximum power of 120kW@6,000rpm and maximum torque of 205Nm@2,000rpm via a five-Stage Activematic transmission and front-wheel drive drive-train.
New Zealand motorists who have steered clear of SUVs because of the running costs find the new CX-7 an attractive proposition. The vehicle runs on 91 regular unleaded petrol and returns a combined average fuel economy of a Mazda6 GSX wagon at an impressive 9.4L/100km.
Like its Limited sibling, the 2.5L CX-7 is sure to turn heads. Dynamic styling sees the vehicle adopt the aggressive five-point grille seen on the Mazda3 and the current CX-7. Flowing lines running along the sides of the vehicle lead to stylish exterior mirrors with side indicator markers and 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/70 R17 Bridgestone tyres.
Inside, the CX-7 features high-quality black surface finishing across console areas while the seats and side door also feature a premium black cloth trim.
In-car entertainment is also a focal point with the audio configuration featuring a four-speaker CD autochanger and auxiliary (AUX) audio point for connecting portable MP3 players. The car also has a 4.1 inch Multi Information Display incorporating colour reversing camera display together with audio and maintenance information including fuel calculators and safety alerts.
While the 2.5L GSX omits some features available on the Limited model, it doesn’t skimp on safety with a full range of both active and passive safety features.
As well as large disc brakes, 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA); the new CX-7 features Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control as well as front, side and curtain airbags. Rear visibility is also enhanced with the addition of a reversing camera and in-dash colour display.
The CX-7 2.5L GSX will be available in a choice of six exterior colours – Stormy Blue Mica, Sparkling Black Mica, Aluminium Metallic, Copper Red Mica, Crystal White Pearl and Galaxy Grey Mica.
Every new CX-7 will come standard with mazdacare to ensure the vehicle continues to perform in optimum condition. mazdacare comprises of a Mazda Genuine Factory Warranty and Mazda On Call Roadside Assistance for a 3 year, unlimited kilometre period and Genuine Mazda Servicing for 3 years/100,000 km (whichever occurs first).
16 April 2010
New Zealand’s favourite mid-sized car gets even better
New Zealand’s most popular medium sized vehicle, the Mazda6, has been freshened with a number of enhancements which see an evolved exterior design as well as exceptional driving performance.
The Mazda6 has regularly led the medium four cylinder segment since it was launched in 2002. The refreshed model will offer even more distinctive styling, dynamic performance and optimum safety in eight variants across three body styles of sedan, sport hatch and wagon, powered by 2.0L and 2.5L engines.
“Since its introduction the Mazda6 has consistently exceeded our expectations. It has really appealed to New Zealand motorists with its unique styling combined with exceptional driving performance,” said Andrew Clearwater, Managing Director, Mazda New Zealand.
“Mazda’s design team has further developed these characteristics with a number of subtle enhancements and I think drivers will appreciate the changes and notice a more refined driving experience,” said Clearwater.
The most striking change is the vehicle’s front fascia which has adopted the expressive, second-generation family face as seen on the new generation Mazda3 and CX-7. Key design elements of the new face are the strong lines that flow from the redesigned five-point grille to the A-pillars. This is balanced with a centrally-positioned lower five-point grille and strong, angular lines that stretch horizontally to the fog lamps and side intakes.
The flowing lines and sense of energy on the Mazda6 is the essence of Mazda’s design direction ‘Nagare’ which is Japanese for ‘flow’. Nagare is about conveying a sense of dynamism and movement, even whilst the vehicle is stationary. Each of the new Mazda6 models feature redesigned lighting systems with chrome-plated inner bezels and round fog lamps framed within a new Nagare-inspired side intake.
The side view includes newly-designed 17-inch alloys and 18-inch alloy wheels for the GSX and Limited models. The wheels incorporate slight twists which further communicate the Nagare design language, improve aerodynamics and reduce the incidence of brake dust as well as a weight saving from the outgoing model. GLX grades retain the wheel cap design of the current model.
The rear of the vehicle features newly-designed rear combination lamps with a chrome-finished wing-shaped decoration on the outer surface that curves toward the side of the body for a strong impression of width.
The Mazda6’s style continues on the inside of the vehicle 