ASH8

Mazda Launches Second SKYACTIV Model in Japan: Facelifted Axela


- New SKYACTIV-G 2.0 engine and SKYACTIV-DRIVE transmission deliver outstanding fuel economy and exhilarating performance -


HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation today commenced sales of the facelifted Mazda Axela (known overseas as the Mazda3) in Japan. The updated Axela is Mazda's second model in Japan to feature the company's breakthrough SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY.

The facelifted Mazda Axela is available from today at all Mazda, Mazda Anfini and Mazda Autozam dealerships nationwide. Manufacturer's suggested retail prices (including taxes) range from 1,660,000 to 2,678,000 yen. The target sales volume is 2,000 units per month.

Mazda Axela Sport 20S-SKYACTIV

The facelifted Axela is Mazda's first vehicle to feature the newly-developed 'SKYACTIV-G 2.0' direct-injection 2.0-liter gasoline engine and SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed automatic transmission. SKYACTIV-DRIVE is an innovative automatic transmission that eliminates slippage and achieves a direct shift feel similar to a manual transmission. This SKYACTIV powertrain delivers an exhilarating drive and best-in-class* fuel economy of 20 km/L (10-15 mode test cycle, models with 15-inch wheels). SKYACTIV-G 2.0 and SKYACTIV-DRIVE are equipped in all 2-liter, front-wheel-drive (FWD) model grades.

The facelifted Axela becomes the Mazda's second model to offer SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY in the Japanese market following the Mazda Demio (known overseas as the Mazda2).

The SKYACTIV-G 2.0 model grades also come equipped with Mazda's intelligent-Drive Master (i-DM), a new technology that supports enjoyable and comfortable driving. The i-DM display indicates how smoothly the controls are used and how this affects fuel economy. It offers useful hints to encourage a driving style that reduces fuel consumption, enhances driver enjoyment and improves passenger comfort.

* 2.0-liter gasoline engine vehicles, excluding hybrids (Mazda data)

Main features of the facelifted Mazda Axela

1. More muscular, higher-quality design

Based on the development concept of "expressive and dynamic design," the facelifted Axela delivers refined exterior styling with improved aerodynamics (Sport model: Cd=0.28, Sedan: Cd=0.26). Inside, new colors enhance the visibility of the controls, and new materials raise the quality feel.

Models with SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY stand out with exclusive interior and exterior design features.

SKYACTIV-G 2.0 models
•
Exclusive headlight design, rear badge and meters. An exclusive, ergonomically designed shift lever highlights the quick-shifting, easy-to-use SKYACTIV-DRIVE transmission

•
Newly designed 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels are stiffer and reduce road noise. The 15S grade now comes with 16-inch alloy wheels as standard equipment


All models
•
Newly-designed front bumper that improves aerodynamics (except Mazdaspeed Axela)

•
New front grille design is refined and athletic

•
Seven exterior body colors are available, including Sky Blue Mica (Mazdaspeed Axela has four exterior body colors, including Velocity Red Mica)

•
Improved interior functionality. Silver garnish is added to controls such as air vents and switches, making them more visible and easier to use

•
New black seat covers and a black center panel console (except models with the 1.5-liter engine) raise interior quality levels


2. Predictable and responsive handling

Mazda targeted a driving feel with Toitsukan: a linear response to driver inputs that ensures a consistent sense of oneness between driver and car.

SKYACTIV-G 2.0 models•
All FWD 2.0-liter models deliver satisfying performance, enhanced torque across the full range, and linear response thanks to the new, highly-efficient SKYACTIV-G 2.0 gasoline engine. High efficiency is achieved with new engine technologies such as multi-hole injectors, cavity pistons, dual sequential-valve timing (S-VT) and reduced friction and pumping losses.

SKYACTIV-G 2.0 engine specifications

Type: water-cooled inline 4-cyliner DOHC 16-valve

Displacement: 1.997 liters

Bore x stroke: 83.5mm x 91.2mm

Compression ratio: 12.0:1

Max. power (net): 113kW (154ps) @6,000rpm

Max. torque (net): 194Nm (19.8 kgf/m) @4,100 rpm

Fuel delivery: in-cylinder direct injection

Fuel: regular gasoline

•
The newly-developed SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed automatic transmission adds an extra gear and increases the lock-up range (the time when the clutch is mechanically locked) from 49 percent to 82 percent (driving under the JC08 mode test cycle). This provides a direct shift feel similar to a manual transmission and smooth, powerful acceleration

•
SKYACTIV-DRIVE features a mechatronics module built into the shift control CPU that realizes exceptionally smooth gear changes

•
The combination of the SKYACTIV-G 2.0 engine with SKYACTIV-DRIVE provides smoother response to the driver's application of the accelerator pedal


All models•
Thicker body frame with a closed cross-section and other enhancements improve rigidity for greater handling stability and reduced road noise

•
The chassis is tuned to provide more agile response to steering inputs and a comfortable, reassuring ride feel


3. Outstanding environmental performance

Best-in-class fuel economy of 20km/L under the 10-15 mode test cycle (17.6km/L or 17.2km/L under the JC08 test cycle) achieved by most models with the SKYACTIV-G 2.0 engine. Mazda's innovative idling stop system, i-stop, now uses less fuel at restart and operates with greater frequency, contributing to better than ever fuel savings.

SKYACTIV-G 2.0 models
•
The combination of the highly-efficient SKYACTIV-G engine and SKYACTIV-DRIVE transmission, together with a new undercover, aerodynamic silencer and low rolling-resistance tires (15-inch wheels), achieves outstanding fuel efficiency of 20km/L Fuel economy of SKYACTIV-G 2.0 model grades


Body type

Grade

Tires

Fuel economy

10-15 mode

JC08 mode

Sport

20S-SKYACTIV

16-inch

18.8km/L

16.2km/L

20C-SKYACTIV

15-inch

20.0km/L

17.2km/L

Sedan

20E-SKYACTIV

15-inch

20.0km/L

17.6km/L

20C-SKYACTIV

15-inch

20.0km/L

17.6km/L


•
To encourage an eco-friendly diving style, an i-stop activation log is added to the multi-information display (MID) located at the top of the instrumental panel

•
The 20S-SKYACTIV, 20E-SKYACTIV and 20C-SKYACTIV grades meet Japan's 2010 fuel economy standards plus 25 percent, and qualify for the government's eco-car tax reduction program


All models•
The 15S, 15C and 20E (4WD) model grades feature an eco-gauge in the center of the meter panel to encourage a fuel-efficient driving style

•
All model grades qualify as Super-Ultra-Low Emission Vehicles (SU-LEV), achieving exhaust emissions that are at least 75 percent lower than the levels required by the Japanese government's 2005 exhaust emissions standard

•
The 15S and 15C grades meet Japan's 2010 fuel economy standards plus 15 percent, and qualify the government's eco-car tax reduction program

•
Mazda records and analyses the vehicle data necessary to perform a vehicle Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). The facelifted Mazda Axela will produce five percent less carbon dioxide (CO2), three percent less nitrous oxide (NOx), two percent fewer non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHC), two percent less sulphur oxide (SOx), and three percent less particulate matter over its lifetime than the previous model


4. Enhanced safety features

The facelifted Mazda Axela was developed with a strong focus on active safety technology. Improved visibility, control layout, and a more linear driving performance provide enhanced peace of mind. The range of models equipped with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) as standard equipment has been expanded to include the 15S model grade.

Additionally, the following safety features are carried over from the previous model:
•
Mazda's Adaptive Front Lighting System, which enhances visibility when cornering at night, is equipped on some model grades

•
The Rear Vehicle Monitoring system, which detects vehicles approaching from behind and alerts the driver, is equipped on some model grades

•
The Emergency Signal System, which rapidly flashes the hazard warning lights during emergency braking to alert following drivers, is standard equipment on all model grades

The JAPAN DRIVE Fest

To coincide with the launch of the facelifted Mazda Axela, Mazda will commence the JAPAN DRIVE Fest, a unique marketing campaign, at Mazda, Mazda Anfini and Mazda Autozam dealerships throughout Japan on October 8, 2011. The campaign is intended to encourage customers to test drive models with Mazda's breakthrough SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY.

The JAPAN DRIVE Fest uses the scoring function of Mazda's innovative intelligent-Drive Master (i-DM) technology, which effectively supports enjoyable driving, a comfortable ride for passengers, and enhanced fuel economy. Customers who test drive a vehicle equipped with SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY will be invited to compete nationwide by submitting their i-DM score.

ASH8

Turbo Engine to me looks MZR not Skyactiv??


Notice on the Front Grille of the Red Sport or MS3 I presume?, the Grille top ends are still pointed or sharp not like the 'rounded' SA 2.0 Axela or Mazda 3 BELOW..\/.





Just a pic of the i-Stop monitor on the dash with digital clock and temp readout.

drifter_d

The red MS3 pictured above looks just like the current model. Am I missing something?

ASH8

Yeah, that is what MMC are showing as the latest Axela (Mazda 3) though, as I said above the Grille does not look like the blue pic SA Axela with the new Kodo design theme, particularly the Fog Light area.

Perhaps they (MMC) have made a mistake??

This is their public home website on the Axela...
http://www.axela.mazda.co.jp/?link_id=pr

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5fHTI44LEc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u89RdcWE1eM

nycgps

iTrader: (1)

hmm, sweet.

the interior looks kinda the same to me.

istop monior, Engine, AC, Battery
Recharging.

(yes I can read some japanese, as long as they're stick together, lol)

What is that supposed to mean ? Semi-Hybrid design ?

but we will not i-stop here anyway ...

ASH8

It now looks to me that Mazda are still making, selling and using the older look for the Mazdaspeed 3, with the existing 2.3l MZR Turbo Engine...

So, as I see it there will be NO Turbo Skyactiv engines for the foreseeable future, maybe not for a few more years (3) until the all new Mazda 3 is due?.

I believe it is both a capacity issue (keeping up with SA Engine supply/assembly), and installation space under the hood for a turbo SA engine?

So far Mazda Japan have launched their new Skyactiv Engines in Mazda 2 (Demio), Mazda 3 (Axela) Sedan and Hatch and the soon to be released Mazda CX-5 SUV, with will have the full suit of SA Technologies.(Chassis/Platform, Suspension, Engine and unique Exhaust Gas Recirculating Manifold).

Exciting times ahead..lets hope one day a Skyactiv Rotary will be born?

http://www.axela.mazda.co.jp/mazdasp...?link_id=axms1

ASH8

Have some faith "grasshopper"...

Remember the car is not that old...so interior has been "tweaked", usually only gets all new dash etc when the body is all new..

Actually, I really like the 'toned down' look of the new 3 front.
The Sedan looks very classy IMO.
Rear Tail lamps are the only thing that looks a little "bold".

It has a unique wedge look that is not too overdone...just enough.

Mazmart

iTrader: (12)

I wonder why they have listed the compression ratio as 12:1. Is that the effective compression ratio due to miller cycle? I am aware that Skyativ utilizes less of the upward stroke for compression due to the delayed intake valve closing time. Or have they reduced the compression ratio at production now that the marketing has boasted about 14:1?

Paul.

zoom44

11 minutes of new Mazda 3 launch in Japanese

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWWe3Uo5yzQ

ASH8

I guess Paul it has to do with the Mazda 3 not having the FULL SA equipment..like the exhaust manifold recycle set up??...the CX-5 will be the only one with it all and I think the 14:1 CR....until new Gen 3 and 6.

GoAuto has more info on the Aussie 3....
http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mell...257918001DA2F1

nycgps

iTrader: (1)

The highest SA compression ratio US will get 13.5:1 , cuz we have "unstable" Gasoline ... *cough*garbage Ethanol*cough*

ASH might be right, The Mazda2/3 not is not 100% SA yet, dunno about the 3 but on the 2 they said there is not enough room to fit the 4-2-1 manifold.

3 can't fit in? I dunno. but my 3's engine bay has so much room sitting there collecting dust ...

nycgps

iTrader: (1)

just finished watching the video zoom posted.

wow, one thing for sure is that we will NOT GET i-DM in the states ... it's going to freak/confuse a lot of people out !!! I want it ! but I know we are not going to get it !

damn they really did improved the CD.

Some of the stuff is kinda like "no ****" tho, for example the underbody crossmember/brace. It has been known that a 1 piece design is stronger than 2 piece. That's why I love my Autoexe crossmember brace

haha, the muffler now has "lines" to improve the aerodynamics. lol

ASH8

Confirmed...Mazda 3 SA Auto with I-Stop goes on sale here (Australia) in November..

Edit: WRONG...caradvise.com....On Sale here already from OCTOBER 3.

http://www.caradvice.com.au/139832/m...yactiv-review/

nycgps

iTrader: (1)

I hate you ASSSSSSSSSUYYYYYY GUYSSSS !

u guys always get the same stuff they sell in Japan ... and in the US we pay the same but we "very often" get less ...

ASH8

YOU are kidding aren't you...

We pay Twice the price for a Mazda made in Japan here....

We get LESS inside them, like, No heated Seats, those Special Rear Vision Mirror things, ummm, NO Auto HVAC, No Xenons in our MX-5.
NO AK Entry (only Shinka), not that I would want one...Key-less Entry is enough.

Anyway...

Interesting to see the I-stop actually works off the Brake Pedal, you must apply certain pressure to stop car and active it, and engine re-starts once Brake Pedal is released within 0.35 seconds....(was not exactly sure how it worked with Mazda).

ASH8

Edit...

As I see it from the outside...ONLY the SA Mazda's 3 gets the face lifted or toned down smile and Kodo.

Also looks to me the Tyres, sorry Tires are higher profile?, therefore better NHV.

ASH8

Well, I always thought the new face-lifted Mazda 3 was being launched here in Australia at the start of October...media this week said November, 2011!

This morning I drove past my Mazda Dealer and out the front parked on display was indeed the all new Mazda 3 Skyactiv (Kodo Design) Hatch (SP20)...in the launch Blue colour.

I could not stop, but, the launch BLUE is slightly more grayer-silver than the previous blues in the Mazda 3.

The new front Grille looks WAY better...

Later today we had our Australian Rules Football Grand Final, and Mazda Australia ran a few TV slots with the new Mazda 3 Skyactiv commercial....yes they even mentioned Skyactiv Engine.

Zoom Zoom!!

nycgps

iTrader: (1)

*sigh*

Well, we're paying about the same as what people are paying in Japan, but we never get as much

I can see why Mazda love selling their cars in Australia ...

oh well.

ASH8

http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mell...2579190002D8DA

RIWWP

iTrader: (2)

Ash, just saw the thread, but I noticed in the first and second posts you made that it says the MS3 is the exception to the facelifting and visual changes.


I do like that I saw
That's a plus.

ASH8

Yep, My EPC is showing the older look for the 2300cc Mazda 3 here (AUST), the only 2.3 3 is the Turbo MPS or your MS3..

So yes, it looks like Mazda have changed to the 'new look' in all except the MS3 or MPS 3.

ASH8

Here is the Aussie SA Mazda 3 TV Ad...

ASH8

SA Mazda 3 goes on sale next week in USA...

http://www.businessweek.com/news/201...-mpg-cars.html

kvndoom

I can't wait for reviews to show up! I hope they score a home run with this one.