ASIAN JUL
03-23-2009, 02:48 PM
http://www.mazdapedia.org/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/mazda-kazami-1.jpg
http://static.desktopnexus.com/wallpapers/20610-bigthumbnail.jpg
http://www.thecarmagazine.com/en/images/6868/inline_08_mazda_kazami_03.jpg
Hmmm.. Might be old news...
2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept Review
By: Trevor Hofmann
Canadian Auto Press
Wed, 10 Dec 2008 17:35:26 PST
A Future CX-7?
The Car Magazine.com
Somewhat overlooked due to where it debuted, Mazda’s Kazamai concept deserves a little more attention. It hit the show
2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept
It's not difficult to see some of the new Mazda3 in the Kazamai Concept. (Photo: Mazda)
stage in Russia, paying respect to one of the strongest new markets globally and Mazda’s largest European market having recently taken over from Germany, the “R” in the BRIC four. But what does the Kazamai say about future Mazdas the world over?
The Kazamai was developed with Russia in mind, and all of Europe for that matter, in that it is a fuel efficient compact model. But it offers stylish mobility in what would be a relatively inexpensive package if produced, much in the same vein as the brand’s 3, although embodying a taller profile and a more futuristic design.
Then again, a quick glance is all that’s needed to see the recently introduced 2010 Mazda3 in the Kazamai’s front fascia. Its smiling five-point “grille” and sculpted black plastic headlight surrounds are much like the grille, brake vents and fog lamp enclosures on the new 3, so maybe we’re looking at what Mazda’s projecting to be a future 3-based crossover, or more likely a future CX-7?
2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept
Some Kazamai details have already shown up in production. (Photo: Mazda)
Difficult to say, but it follows form with the other concepts Japan’s most exciting automaker has revealed over the last few years.
It’s the Kazamai’s packaging that’s most intriguing, actually. At 1,930 mm (76.0 inches) wide and 4,520 mm (177.9 inches) long it is only a tad longer than the current Mazda3, but with space enough inside for what Mazda refers to as “SUV comfort and functionality.” What makes it different from a Mazda5 or CX-7 is that it’s only 1,500 mm (59.0 inches) tall, giving it a relatively low and flat roofline that together with an extremely short rear overhang forms a sporty coupe-like appearance.
Inside, it seats four “with compact SUV comfort and functionality”, says Mazda, although the company is rather vague in saying how it goes about fulfilling
2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept
Following a path set out by the RX-8, four can be seated inside the Kazamai's coupe-like silhouette. (Photo: Mazda)
“various driver and vehicle interfaces so as to support the driver in enjoying safe and stress-free driving,” other than by saying that it takes “human machine interface visibility and operation” into consideration, and that this is important in Mazda’s “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom” plan.
Possibly more important for sustainability is the weight reduction and aerodynamic gains made. Towards the latter, the Kazamai offers a flat floor panel that channels air into a rear diffuser to be expelled out the back, allowing an average of 10-percent better aerodynamics than any other vehicle currently being produced in the compact crossover segment. Next was to reduce bodyweight without negatively affecting collision safety, NVH levels and overall strength, benefiting handling, fuel economy and CO2 emissions. Obviously lightweight materials were part of the answer, the Kazamai making use of aluminum and aluminum alloys for the hood, chassis and engine block,
2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept
Plastic body parts have lowered the Kazamai's overall weight. (Photo: Mazda)
while plastic exterior panels, fenders and engine cover shed a hundred kilos off the top. This was all possible due to new processing/joining technologies that Mazda is expected to use in upcoming production models. These features also contribute to advanced handling and improved fuel economy.
The concept’s name, Kazamai, is a continuation of Mazda’s “flow” themed line of concepts. In Japanese, Kazamai means “swirling crosswind”, evident in the crisscrossed pattern that can be seen on its large doors, and is a pretty good descriptor as to the type of vehicle that it is. Although it is classified as a compact crossover, the Kazamai has a coupe-like roofline, a rakish profile and two doors. Meanwhile, the nose of the concept brings the sporty Nagare into the world of crossovers. In true concept fashion, the Kazamai rides on 22-inch alloy wheels, these featuring seven spokes narrow at centre and wider at the rim
2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept
Aerodynamics play a big role in the Kazamai design. (Photo: Mazda)
in a twisting whirlwind-like pattern, a brilliant design that makes them appear as if spinning when standing still.
Although the Kazamai’s powertrain is theoretical at this point, Mazda says that it would be all wheel drive and powered by a next-generation turbocharged direct injected engine, citing the new 2.0-litre DISI (Direct Injection Spark Ignition) mill, with its “combustion control technology and variable valve control” that delivers “strong torque throughout the rev-range for excellent engine response as well as superior fuel economy” as most appropriate. A lightweight next-generation six-speed automatic transmission is said to be “highly responsive” with the “direct feel of a manual transmission.” Mazda says that in conjunction with the aerodynamic gains and lowered overall curb weight the Kazamai would achieve an estimated 30-percent
2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept
All of Mazda's new designs centre around efficient aerodynamics, exercises which are starting to show up on their production vehicles. (Photo: Mazda)
improvement in fuel consumption and emissions in comparison to the current MXR 2.0-litre gasoline engine, and that while still offering excitement at the wheel.
Safety might not be the sizzle on the steak in the sales process, but it’s still an important factor in choosing a new vehicle, especially one that might potentially target young families. To that end Mazda boasts that the Kazamai’s body shell as meeting high crash safety standards, and does so as a result of a new body structure program. What’s more, the Kazamai features roll stability control, blind spot monitoring to assist when changing lanes, a pre-crash safety system and advanced dynamic stability control (DSC) to empower the driver no matter the conditions of road surfaces. Pedestrian safety in
2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept
Sporty for a crossover, something like this could show up at your local Mazda dealer in the future. (Photo: Mazda)
mind, the concept features soft plastic fenders and a shock-cone aluminum hood that absorbs impact energy efficiently.
Lastly, Mazda incorporated a personal security system into the Kazamai, which monitors the area around and inside the car, plus has an automatic alert system to inform the driver in the event of an emergency and to help to protect all occupants.
Looking to the future and the inevitable reality that Mazda’s own CX-7 will need to be replaced in the next couple of years, the Kazamai could provide a hint at the styling of the next generation sporty crossover. Alternatively, Mazda may opt to bring in an even smaller model based on this concept, but like all future speculation it’s anyone’s guess what they’ll actually do. It’s pretty certain, however, that the “flow” design language will continue influencing future production cars, and that Mazda’s performance-oriented bias will remain an important element in all future designs.
Specifications (2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept):
* Body Type: 2-door crossover
* Layout: front engine, FWD
* Engine: 2.0L DISI (Direct Injection Spark Ignition) I-4
* Transmission: 6-speed auto
* Suspension (f/r): MacPherson strut / multi-link
* Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 4,520 / 1,930 / 1,500 / 2,780 mm (177.9 / 76.0 / 59.0 / 109.4 in)
* Seating Capacity: 4
* Tires: 265/45 R22 Bridgestone
* Web Site: www.mazda.ca
And here's a big picture.. Bigger picture (http://autoworld.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/mazda-kazamai-concept-at-mias2008-img_1.jpg)
Thoughts?
http://static.desktopnexus.com/wallpapers/20610-bigthumbnail.jpg
http://www.thecarmagazine.com/en/images/6868/inline_08_mazda_kazami_03.jpg
Hmmm.. Might be old news...
2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept Review
By: Trevor Hofmann
Canadian Auto Press
Wed, 10 Dec 2008 17:35:26 PST
A Future CX-7?
The Car Magazine.com
Somewhat overlooked due to where it debuted, Mazda’s Kazamai concept deserves a little more attention. It hit the show
2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept
It's not difficult to see some of the new Mazda3 in the Kazamai Concept. (Photo: Mazda)
stage in Russia, paying respect to one of the strongest new markets globally and Mazda’s largest European market having recently taken over from Germany, the “R” in the BRIC four. But what does the Kazamai say about future Mazdas the world over?
The Kazamai was developed with Russia in mind, and all of Europe for that matter, in that it is a fuel efficient compact model. But it offers stylish mobility in what would be a relatively inexpensive package if produced, much in the same vein as the brand’s 3, although embodying a taller profile and a more futuristic design.
Then again, a quick glance is all that’s needed to see the recently introduced 2010 Mazda3 in the Kazamai’s front fascia. Its smiling five-point “grille” and sculpted black plastic headlight surrounds are much like the grille, brake vents and fog lamp enclosures on the new 3, so maybe we’re looking at what Mazda’s projecting to be a future 3-based crossover, or more likely a future CX-7?
2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept
Some Kazamai details have already shown up in production. (Photo: Mazda)
Difficult to say, but it follows form with the other concepts Japan’s most exciting automaker has revealed over the last few years.
It’s the Kazamai’s packaging that’s most intriguing, actually. At 1,930 mm (76.0 inches) wide and 4,520 mm (177.9 inches) long it is only a tad longer than the current Mazda3, but with space enough inside for what Mazda refers to as “SUV comfort and functionality.” What makes it different from a Mazda5 or CX-7 is that it’s only 1,500 mm (59.0 inches) tall, giving it a relatively low and flat roofline that together with an extremely short rear overhang forms a sporty coupe-like appearance.
Inside, it seats four “with compact SUV comfort and functionality”, says Mazda, although the company is rather vague in saying how it goes about fulfilling
2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept
Following a path set out by the RX-8, four can be seated inside the Kazamai's coupe-like silhouette. (Photo: Mazda)
“various driver and vehicle interfaces so as to support the driver in enjoying safe and stress-free driving,” other than by saying that it takes “human machine interface visibility and operation” into consideration, and that this is important in Mazda’s “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom” plan.
Possibly more important for sustainability is the weight reduction and aerodynamic gains made. Towards the latter, the Kazamai offers a flat floor panel that channels air into a rear diffuser to be expelled out the back, allowing an average of 10-percent better aerodynamics than any other vehicle currently being produced in the compact crossover segment. Next was to reduce bodyweight without negatively affecting collision safety, NVH levels and overall strength, benefiting handling, fuel economy and CO2 emissions. Obviously lightweight materials were part of the answer, the Kazamai making use of aluminum and aluminum alloys for the hood, chassis and engine block,
2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept
Plastic body parts have lowered the Kazamai's overall weight. (Photo: Mazda)
while plastic exterior panels, fenders and engine cover shed a hundred kilos off the top. This was all possible due to new processing/joining technologies that Mazda is expected to use in upcoming production models. These features also contribute to advanced handling and improved fuel economy.
The concept’s name, Kazamai, is a continuation of Mazda’s “flow” themed line of concepts. In Japanese, Kazamai means “swirling crosswind”, evident in the crisscrossed pattern that can be seen on its large doors, and is a pretty good descriptor as to the type of vehicle that it is. Although it is classified as a compact crossover, the Kazamai has a coupe-like roofline, a rakish profile and two doors. Meanwhile, the nose of the concept brings the sporty Nagare into the world of crossovers. In true concept fashion, the Kazamai rides on 22-inch alloy wheels, these featuring seven spokes narrow at centre and wider at the rim
2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept
Aerodynamics play a big role in the Kazamai design. (Photo: Mazda)
in a twisting whirlwind-like pattern, a brilliant design that makes them appear as if spinning when standing still.
Although the Kazamai’s powertrain is theoretical at this point, Mazda says that it would be all wheel drive and powered by a next-generation turbocharged direct injected engine, citing the new 2.0-litre DISI (Direct Injection Spark Ignition) mill, with its “combustion control technology and variable valve control” that delivers “strong torque throughout the rev-range for excellent engine response as well as superior fuel economy” as most appropriate. A lightweight next-generation six-speed automatic transmission is said to be “highly responsive” with the “direct feel of a manual transmission.” Mazda says that in conjunction with the aerodynamic gains and lowered overall curb weight the Kazamai would achieve an estimated 30-percent
2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept
All of Mazda's new designs centre around efficient aerodynamics, exercises which are starting to show up on their production vehicles. (Photo: Mazda)
improvement in fuel consumption and emissions in comparison to the current MXR 2.0-litre gasoline engine, and that while still offering excitement at the wheel.
Safety might not be the sizzle on the steak in the sales process, but it’s still an important factor in choosing a new vehicle, especially one that might potentially target young families. To that end Mazda boasts that the Kazamai’s body shell as meeting high crash safety standards, and does so as a result of a new body structure program. What’s more, the Kazamai features roll stability control, blind spot monitoring to assist when changing lanes, a pre-crash safety system and advanced dynamic stability control (DSC) to empower the driver no matter the conditions of road surfaces. Pedestrian safety in
2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept
Sporty for a crossover, something like this could show up at your local Mazda dealer in the future. (Photo: Mazda)
mind, the concept features soft plastic fenders and a shock-cone aluminum hood that absorbs impact energy efficiently.
Lastly, Mazda incorporated a personal security system into the Kazamai, which monitors the area around and inside the car, plus has an automatic alert system to inform the driver in the event of an emergency and to help to protect all occupants.
Looking to the future and the inevitable reality that Mazda’s own CX-7 will need to be replaced in the next couple of years, the Kazamai could provide a hint at the styling of the next generation sporty crossover. Alternatively, Mazda may opt to bring in an even smaller model based on this concept, but like all future speculation it’s anyone’s guess what they’ll actually do. It’s pretty certain, however, that the “flow” design language will continue influencing future production cars, and that Mazda’s performance-oriented bias will remain an important element in all future designs.
Specifications (2008 Mazda Kazamai Concept):
* Body Type: 2-door crossover
* Layout: front engine, FWD
* Engine: 2.0L DISI (Direct Injection Spark Ignition) I-4
* Transmission: 6-speed auto
* Suspension (f/r): MacPherson strut / multi-link
* Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 4,520 / 1,930 / 1,500 / 2,780 mm (177.9 / 76.0 / 59.0 / 109.4 in)
* Seating Capacity: 4
* Tires: 265/45 R22 Bridgestone
* Web Site: www.mazda.ca
And here's a big picture.. Bigger picture (http://autoworld.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/mazda-kazamai-concept-at-mias2008-img_1.jpg)
Thoughts?