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Sunday, October 6, 2019

Bermaz Reveals Price of the new 2019 Mazda CX-5 SKYACTIV-G 2.5 Petrol Turbo for Malaysia

Admin 7:24 AM 0

Bermaz, the official distributors of Mazda in Malaysia has finally revealed the prices for the new 2019 Mazda CX-5 2.5L SKYACTIV-G Turbo. The newest variant of the car comes in at RM181,770.80 before any insurance in Peninsula Malaysia. Quite reasonable as this is only about RM10k or so higher than what is offered in Japan (or thereabouts).

This new engine variant comes with a

The All-New Mazda CX-8 Has Been Unveiled in Malaysia - No Official Price Yet But Bookings Are Open

suv

Admin 3:56 AM 0

The 2019 All-New Mazda CX-8 Crossover / SUV people carrier has been officially unveiled over at Mazda's Kulim Plant yesterday. The All-New Mazda CX-8 is locally assembled (CKD) at the Inokom, Kulim Plant and will eventually join the CX-5 which is assembled there for the regional export market. The new Mazda CX-8 is right now officially open for booking BUT, the official pricing will be

MAZDA6 Updated for the 2020 Model Year - Prices Start at RM173K Onwards With Three Variants Offered

sedan

Admin 7:46 AM 0

The MAZDA6 has been updated for the upcoming 2020 Model Year (which starts sometime in the 3rd quarter of this year onwards actually). As such, the new 2019 Mazda 6 which is sold in Malaysia by Bermaz now comes equipped with some enhancements to its driving dynamics as well as to comfort and other equipment inside.

The MAZDA6 is currently fully imported (CBU) from Japan and is

New electric Mazda will be available and with Wankel motor

mazda

Admin 2:30 AM 0

The brand new prototype electric model with the name e-TPV will be offered in one version as pure electric, while its other version will also combine battery which will work with a rotary engine, which will function as a range extender, charging the battery whenever it is needed.

The photographs of the original model that came to the public, show the body of the CX-30, with the brand representative, Yoshikazu Nagai, to mention that several electrical prototypes will be presented in the big exhibition, which will feature the "costume" of the CX-30, but will be stepping on the new Mazda platform that has evolved exclusively for electric cars.

Mr. Nagai confirmed that the car will be a "brand new model" and not just an electrically powered CX-30, without of course revealing what will be true with the exterior design of the car. What has become known about the purely electric version of the new Mazda model is that for its movement it will take care of an electric motor with a power of 141 horsepower, with a battery array of 35.5 kWh capacity.

Read also ...Mazda RX-8 converted to full electric by Greek technicians

The new electric model is expected to start his career in the markets of Japan, China and of course Europe and the US markets will follow. The new electric model, will be the springboard for the new series of electric cars of the Japanese brand.

source

2019 Mazda CX-5 2.5L SkyActiv-G Turbo Petrol Preview

turbo

Admin 9:49 PM 0

Here is our preview video on the new Mazda CX-5 2.5L SKYACTIV-G Turbo petrol variant. This will be launched by Bermaz, the official distributor of Mazda here in Malaysia and it is set to be priced somewhere within the RM180-200K price range.

228hp and 420nm is promised from the engine. It will come with all-wheel drive and a slew of active safety features. According to what we heard

Bermaz Will Preview the New 2019 Mazda CX-5 at Sunway Pyramid From 4th to 9th September 2019 Including the New 2.5L Turbocharged Variant

turbo

Admin 7:49 PM 0

Bermaz, the good people who are the authorised distributors of Mazda in Malaysia, will be having a roadshow at Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall starting from September 4 to September 9, 2019. The highlight of the roadshow is the preview of the soon to be launched 2019 Mazda CX-5 SKYACTIV-G 2.5liter Turbo which will be displayed alongside the current range of Mazda models sold here.

The

Bermaz officially launches the all-new 2015 Mazda MX-5 in Malaysia

mx-5 nd

Admin 9:21 AM 0

Bermaz, the distributor for Mazda in Malaysia has officially launched the Mazda MX-5 Skyactiv with the 2.0liter 4 cylinder engine - one engine here in Malaysia in 6 speed automatic transmission form with the 6 speed manual coming in later.

This iconic roadster's latest iteration is a marvel in Japanese ingenuity. Mazda officially unveiled this fourth generation MX-5 or ND series late 2014 and is actually a smaller, more purpose built car than the one it replaced. It harks back to the purity of the first generation model. In fact, it is so much closer in size with the one first launched in 1989 rather than the one it replaces. The original MX-5 Miata weighed approximately 960kg. This new one weighs 1080kg. At a time where cars get larger, Mazda keeps making their cars the opposite.

The fourth generation Mazda MX-5 is also 105 mm shorter and 100 kg lighter than the third generation model. The car has the Mazda SKYACTIV technology. There will only be one 2.0liter direct-injection petrol engines without any use of forced induction (very typically SKYACTIV). The 2.0liter makes 158hp and 200Nm torque. As stated above, it now comes with the 6 speed automatic with the 6 speed manual coming in later.

The cockpit, steering wheel, and infotainment system are very similar to the 2014 Mazda3 as well as the Mazda 2. In terms of size, the MX-5 is obviously small. Smaller than the third generation car it replaces and it somehow feels very cozy and compact when you're in it. Plastics are of typical Mazda high quality but there is a little too much familiarity in terms of dashboard design. I felt like I was in a Mazda 2. Not a bad thing, as the dashboard is well built with good use of nice feeling materials. The fabric roof is manually operated and can be opened/closed within a few seconds. Very easy to operate.

The MX-5 looks good too. Whatever design philosophy Mazda used to design it actually works well. The car is purposefully small and sporty looking. I have also loved the MX-5 and I do have a liking towards the styling of this new one. Mazda has come up with another very well designed car with the MX-5. I have a feeling that the car will drive better than the one it replaced. And that folks, was actually a car I already enjoyed driving.

Prices for the 2015 Mazda MX-5 start at RM226,376.32 on the road with insurance for the automatic.

PRESS RELEASE

Mazda MX-5 SKYACTIV.

The Mazda MX-5 SKYACTIV that is being launched today is the culmination of all the benefits of Mazda’s revolutionary SKYACTIV Technology resulting in an already legendary roadster that is destined to be an icon. Mazda has succeeded in making the new MX-5 lighter yet more rigid, more powerful yet more fuel efficient, faster yet safer, and more desirable yet more attainable. The MX-5 carries the Mazda badge proudly. It lives on as the definitive roadster, a truly tough act to follow.

The Mazda MX-5 was introduced to the world in 1989 as a true lightweight sports car. It was a two-seater roadster with a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, proven mechanicals and sound technology. With its fuss-free but distinctive styling, the compact roadster weighed merely 940kg.

Badged as the Mazda MX-5 Miata in North America and as the Eunos Roadster in Japan, the MX-5 went on to be the best-selling two-seater convertible sports car in history, as validated by the Guinness Book of World Records in 2000, with total production of 531,890 units. Nearly a million Mazda MX-5s have been sold around the world by July 2014, a remarkable number for a car of this category.

The Mazda MX-5 has won numerous awards including Wheels Magazine's Car of the Year for 1989 and 2005, Sports Car International's "best sports car of the 1990s" and "ten best sports cars of all time", 2005–2006 Car of the Year Japan; and 2005 Australian Car of the Year. The Miata has been on Car and Driver magazine's annual Ten Best list 14 times! The December 2009 issue of Grassroots Motorsports magazine named the Miata as the most important sports car built is the last 25 years. And in the words of Jeremy Clarkson: “The fact is that if you want a sports car, the MX-5 is perfect. Nothing on the road will give you better value. Nothing will give you so much fun. The only reason I’m giving it five stars is because I can’t give it fourteen.”

The success of the MX5 can be attributed to Mazda’s philosophy of Jinba ittai (rider “jin” horse “ba” as one body “ittai”). The Mazda SKYACTIV technology translates this into a reality that can be easily felt with a drive in the new roadster. And with Mazda’s design language Kodo, the MX-5 has evolved from its soft-edged and unassuming persona to a sexy and edgy sports car, with a strong Mazda family theme.

The new Mazda MX-5 was unveiled to the world early this year, to an enthusiastic response. The international media members who had the opportunity to drive it soon after gave it an overwhelming ‘thumbs-up’. It has been raking up record sales numbers worldwide, contributing to a strong revival of the roadster love-affair. The spectacular automotive achievement that is the Mazda MX-5 is now available in Malaysia.

The new Mazda MX-5 is being offered as a convertible with a soft top, in the pure form of a roadster. A lightweight, automated fully retractable hard top is in the pipeline. Prices will be announced soon.

Owners of past models showed up in force

Shell's #Lovemyride Festival - 500 motorists get engine oil changes at a carnival

vpower

Admin 4:47 AM 0

A total of 500 lucky motorists enjoyed the ultimate engine rejuvenating experience for their cars at the first-ever “#LoveMyRide” Festival organised by Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd over the weekend. Acording to Shell Malaysia, a total of 378 cars received a free engine oil change on the first day of the festival, Saturday, June 13, 2015, to successfully create a new entry in the Malaysia Book of Records for the ‘most number of cars in a lubricant changing event. The overall target of 500 cars was achieved at 3.17 pm on Sunday, June 14, 2015, when another 122 cars underwent the free oil change. The two day event was held at MATRADE, Kuala Lumpur.

Shell Malaysia MD Tuan Haji Azman Ismail and Shell Lubricants GM Leslie Ng pour Shell Helix Ultra to symbolically open the Love My Ride Festival

I attended the event, bringing along my wife's trusty Perodua Myvi for the 'rejuvenating experience'. I got the Shell Helix Ultra oil change as well as a filling of Shell's V-Power Racing (about a quarter tank's worth as the car still had lots of petrol in it). This made me a participant in the Malaysia Book of Records. Of course, those who got the oil change was basically there to take advantage of the freebies. But I personally like using Shell Helix engine oil for my cars. Actually anything with the higher or correct grade of engine oil is what I like for my cars - which is why I do end up checking the contents as to whether it has the correct grade or not.

Out of the last six or so engine oil changes in the Subaru Impreza TS I owned, I have to say that around four of it was Shell Helix HX7. This is the semi syntethic grade offered by Shell Malaysia. and it worked perfectly fine for the car. The range of Shell Helix engine oils in Malaysia are the Helix Ultra fully synthetic, Helix HX7 semi-synthetic, HX5 and HX3 mineral based oils. You basically cannot go wrong with an established brand. Just keep with the service schedule required by the car's manufacturer and you're okay.

Yes. The Myvi ran smoothly after the oil change and the V-Power Racing. Speaking about V-Power Racing, it costs RM2.90 per liter at the pumps at the time of writing. A heck of a lot compared to the basic RON 95 that most of us use (RM2.05 per liter). But the thing is that in most smaller capacity cars V-Power Racing actually works quite well as it is much cleaner - Euro 4M rating compared to the mimimum Euro 2 grade that is still being offered, and that its octane rating is a minimum of RON97 (I think it feels closer to a Premium 98 grade used overseas). So the benefits are instantaneous from the first fill. Even a Myvi with some V-Power Racing in its tank feels a tad bit smoother and felt like it had a tad bit more performance too. Too bad it costs a fair bit.

Anyway, do read on down below. More pictures too as the event was not only about engine oil and fuel. The event had lots of food stalls and booths, fashion stalls, Mazda and BMW cars on display and other activities for those who brought their families. It was fun actually. I had hoped that there would be other manufacturers but Mazda and BMW were there are they are in an arrangement with Shell Malaysia and use their lubricants for servicing at the service centers. But a carnival nonetheless.

PRESS RELEASE

500 CAR ENGINES ‘REJUVENATED’ AT SHELL’S “#LOVEMYRIDE” FESTIVAL

A total of 378 engine oil changes completed on first day to create a new entry in the Malaysia Book of Records

KUALA LUMPUR, 15 June, 2015 – A total of 500 lucky motorists enjoyed the ultimate engine rejuvenating experience for their cars at the first-ever “#LoveMyRide” Festival organised by Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd over the weekend.

On the first day of the festival on Saturday, June 13, 2015, a total of 378 cars received a free engine oil change to successfully create a new entry in the Malaysia Book of Records for the ‘most number of cars in a lubricant changing event.’

The overall target of 500 cars was achieved at 3.17 pm on Sunday, June 14, 2015, when another 122 cars underwent the free oil change.

This first-of-its-kind festival for car lovers, featuring the unbeatable combination of Shell Helix Ultra with PurePlus Technology and Shell V-Power Racing, was held at MATRADE Exhibition and Convention Centre (MECC), Kuala Lumpur, on June 13 and 14, 2015 from 10.00 am till 7.00 pm.

The lucky cars were selected from applications received online at www.lovemyride.com.my to enjoy an engine rejuvenation package worth up to RM600 for free.

“We wanted those who have never tried Shell Helix Ultra with PurePlus Technology to really experience what a motor oil made from natural gas could do for a car engine. Imagine a motor oil so pure that it cleanses your car inside out. Combine that with Shell V-Power Racing’s innovative formula and you are all set for an optimum driving experience,” said Tuan Haji Azman Ismail, Managing Director Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd.

The massive oil change event, which targeted a total of 500 cars over two days, involved

100 student mechanics from Despark College and Shell Helix branded workshops; an estimated 6,000 litres of Shell Helix Ultra with PurePlus Technology fully synthetic engine oil; and 15,000 litres of Shell V-Power Racing fuel.

The exclusive treatment entitled each motorist to receive a complete engine oil change for their cars using Shell Helix Ultra with PurePlus Technology 5W-40 fully synthetic engine oil. This is Shell’s most advanced motor oil and the first ever motor oil made from natural gas. The pure, synthetic base oil from natural gas, delivers the highest levels of cleansing and protection.

For further improved performance, each car also drive away with a tank* of Shell V-Power Racing fuel. With a unique double-action formula, Shell V-Power Racing is designed to actively clean the engine and protect vital engine parts.

“This powerful combination of Shell Helix Ultra with PurePlus Technology engine oil and Shell V-Power Racing fuel was developed through a technical partnership with Scuderia Ferrari. Tried and tested on the race track, its benefits are now available for the enjoyment of every day motorists on the road,” explained Tuan Haji Azman.

The ultimate car rejuvenating experience was part the “#LoveMyRide” Festival, a first-of-its-kind, event for car lovers. The festival was designed to celebrate and share the very best of Shell’s innovative solutions for the everyday journey of all Malaysians.

The event sought to pamper car lovers by bringing together all the things that they love in life for their rides – all in one weekend at one venue: cars, food, music as well as time out with their family and friends. Admission was free.

The fun-filled weekend offered something for everyone: Car enthusiasts could take the latest BMW and Mazda cars for a test drive; participate in an F1 race car simulator challenge; and learn more about Shell lubricants at the PurePlus Mocktail Mixology sessions. Foodies took their pick from over 50 of KL’s top food trucks and gastronomic cafes all under one roof. Family and friends were able to enjoy the weekend flea market and capture memories with 3D optical illusions or street art on display. Visitors can also look forward to live performances from local top acts such as Reza Salleh, IamNEETA, Diandra Arjunaidi and Talitha Tan, at the main stage. For more information, please go to www.lovemyride.com.my.

Mazda Cars....

...and BMW too

Short test drive: 2015 Mazda 2 1.5 Hatchback - Definitely not your conventional supermini

mazda malaysia

Admin 8:16 PM 0

Mazda launched the fourth generation Mazda 2 here in Malaysia recently. Two variants, one a hatchback, the other a sedan. Both get the same specs inside and out. The only difference is a boot and the other a hatch. Both cost RM88,000 or thereabouts and are seriously well equipped for the price. What this new Mazda 2 brings to the table are a lot of good things for supermini buyers out there.

If you compare with the older Mazda 2, the new one isn't based on the Ford Fiesta. It isn't all cute and cuddly anymore and is not all spare and very no-frills looking like the previous generation. What you get is basically a miniaturized Mazda 3 (or if you want to go all the way, the Mazda 6) in terms of external looks.

The exterior gets Mazda's Kodo design philosophy which means, as I mentioned, looks like the good looking Mazda 3 or 6 and eschews traditional small hatchback principles in some ways. Most superminis have a certain single box type styling but you see a clear two box style in the Mazda 2's design. I have to say that it looks unique with the A pillars set way back. Quite like how a larger sized car is styled. It works. Even if the tyres look slightly small from some angles.

The interior is where things get better. Interior space has certainly grown (as has overall size but not weight – thanks to the use of lighter but stronger high tensile steel). The rear seats in both the sedan and hatchback have a decent enough space if you compare with the previous version. The doors may open wide but getting in takes a little wriggling as the opening is small. It will not beat the Perodua Myvi in terms of rear legroom and space but you are quite comfortable with two abreast. I like how Mazda puts styling slightly ahead of ultimate space and legroom at the rear. I suppose in some ways, Mazda is telling us that this car is a small, fun, quality runabout. If you want more space, buy something else. Buy the Myvi if you want space over anything else as honestly, its the cheapest and most spacious bar the Honda Jazz. But if you want some style in your life, the Mazda 2 has it in spades.

Why so? Well, the interior quality is quite amazing for a supermini (B segment car). As stated, the old one has this no frills approach to getting things done. This new one is stylish. There is a very driver-centric dashboard that is well screwed and uses quality materials - still hard plastics but this is a supermini that isn't sold at RM150,000. Whaddya expect? There is a single large round rev-counter flanked by two curved on top rectangles. These are for temperature, fuel gauge and other readouts but the speedometer sits on top of the dashboard; a heads up display. A pretty nifty gimmick that a lot will like.

There are three round air vents, two are to the left and right of the driver and one at the end of the passenger side. The center vent for the passenger is part of the decorative chrome strip that divides the dashboard. There is also a strip or swathe or real leather with red stitching on the dashboard. Same real leather and red stitching goes to the seats too. This is so premium a touch unlike the other giant of a Japanese car company that loves molding plastic with fake stitching. In short, the cabin made me feel like I was in a small luxury supermini, much like sitting in an Audi A1 in some ways. Of course, you can break the illusion by tapping on the hard plastic parts in the car.

As for the internals, Mazda's Skyactiv touches are of course there. The 1.5liter 4 cylinder engine takes normally aspirated tuning to another level compared to what is offered in the supermini segment here in Malaysia. You get a direct injection engine where others offer variable valve timing. 114Hp and 148Nm torque. Both figures are easily a good 5hp and 5nm better than most cars in its class. The Mazda 2 also gets a 6 speed torque convertor based transmission unit which I consider as being so much more robust than any dual clutch or CVT unit out there in its class today.

I had a short drive in the hatchback the other day and it is promising. The driving position is good with good seats too. The performance of the 1.5liter is decent but you would need to rev it above 2,500rpm before things get interesting. 3,000 onwards for real progress. There is a cammy feel at this point where suddenly the engine comes alive and progress gets going. The gearbox shifts smoothly and seemlessly. Not as rapid as a dual clutch unit but it actually suits the overall feel of the car.

The overall feel of this Mazda 2 isn't sporty. It feels quite grown up. Much like the Volkswagen Polo 1.6 hatchback I drove earlier. In fact, you could say that this was the benchmark that Mazda used to make the 2. The feel and weighting of the steering (although a bit too light at parking speeds), controls and how the car turns in feels pretty similar. This makes this car an overall smooth performer. It feels planted and secure even on its very narrow 185/60/16 tyres (which I believe also contributes to a very quiet and refined interior for a supermini). Very continental if one might add. If you want more handling thrills, may I suggest a Ford Fiesta or a Suzy Swift? But I could see myself driving this down to Penang or Singapore and not feeling that fatigued. It is quite sorted in my books.

I suppose this is because of Mazda's attention to detail. You may think that SkyActiv is just some marketing term used by them but they really do iron out most of the details and fine tune the whole car more than what some other Japanese and Koreans do. It just looks stylish even with its narrow wheels (the sedan less so as it feels compromised in terms of styling – not enough length at for the boot to look proportioned . It has an interior which is very Japanese but looks and feels (decently for its class) well except for some rear legroom (which still is better than previously). It's drive train could be the smoothest in its class due to that conventional 6 speed automatic and a smooth direct injection engine that has over 110horses and ample torque for a normally aspirated 1.5liter.

This car could be my favourite supermini under RM90,000 because of all of the above. Highly recommended. But buy the hatchback if possible. The sedan, looks too compromised. As you can see in the pic below.

All-New Mazda MX-5 "Miata" previewed

new mx5

Admin 7:39 PM 0

Mazda has just previewed the all-new Mazda MX-5. The 'Miata' or MX-5 Roadster as it is known to us keeps the tradition going. Supposedly a 2016 model year car, you get the same open top motoring available to you except that it now has edgier styling than previous generations. This fourth generation MX-5 is supposedly also 100kg lighter on some models and it will still be normally aspirated. The largest engine would be the 2.0liter GDI SkyActiv and it should still come with a manual (six speed) transmission as well as an automatic for lazier people (like the previous one).

Note the power and drive train securely located behind the front suspension mounts. This MX-5 is a front mid-enginedcar. Balance should be good as ever just from the looks of it. The only thing is whether it keeps all of the soul.

Styling as stated above is edgier. It does have some Honda S2000 in its styling eh? It is still low slung (the front looks even more than before) and the car sits on its rear hunches more than previously emphasising its rear wheel drive stance. Whilst still a smallish car, it has that usual roadster packaging - a longish bonnet, rear set cabin with seats close to the rear wheels and a short boot. The car still sports a soft top which is why weight is still kept low aside from the 100kg weight loss design target.

More on the MX-5 soon.

photos: jalopnik/mazda

All New 2014 Mazda 3 2.0 SkyActiv in Malaysia.

mazda 3 malaysia

Admin 12:16 AM 0

No. I haven't forgotten that the all-new Mazda 3 2.0 was just launched in Malaysia. The reason is that I did not have the time to get myself over to One Utama where they had launched it and I have not made it to any showrooms to have a look at it. Anyway, Mazda seems to have only brought in one fully imported CBU model - the 2.0 Skyactive sedan at RM138,935 OTR with insurance (with no hatchback in sight at the moment). It comes with a 3 year /100,000km warranty and a 3 year / 60,000km free servicing packages.

Expect the CKD model by the third or fourth quarter of 2014 (which I presume would be RM10,000 cheaper at the very least). The CBU Mazda 3 2.0 Skyactive sedan gets a high compression 2.0liter 4 cylinder engine to get a whole lot of efficiency (and power). 162hp and 210Nm torque via a 6 speed automatic gearbox. It only weighs 1295kg too! Impressive figures and this could now be the performance C segment car to get here in Malaysia..... IF and WHEN they assemble it locally. Only then.

Why did I just say that? Well, at almost RM140,000 you could just go and buy the entry level CKD Honda Accord 2.0VTI (something like the one in the pic above). Of course, throwing around an Accord through high speed corners may be unbecoming but the Accord is a whole lot of car for the price. It is very well built and it also handles very well but compared to the Mazda 3 CBU weighs 200kg heavier and at least 20hp down in power and 20Nm down in torque. But you get a D segment instead of a C segment car. Think of the image boost it may be able to give you at the office car park. Of course, The Mazda 3 is actually quite large for a C segment car these days. And it is good looking too. I somehow think the lines flow better here than in the larger Mazda 6.

No, I am not suggesting merely for the sake of image and style. The thing about the Malaysian market is that prices are so screwed up that an imported Mazda 3 costs as much as a Mazda 6 competitor that is locally assembled. Sometimes it would be wiser to just buy the bigger car - which incidentally has a longer warranty too (5 years unlimited mileage warranty).

And if you are patient, RM10,000 in savings could be had if you just wait for the CKD version of the Mazda 3. So whilst the Mazda 3 looks promising on paper, in terms of price, I'd wait awhile for the CKD version.

Mazda Launches Its New 130,000 Square Feet Showroom cum Malaysian HQ in Glenmarie.

skyactiv technology

Admin 7:31 AM 0

Mazda's local partners Bermaz Motor Sdn Bhd seems pretty committed towards the brand here in Malaysia as they've recently unveiled their largest showroom in this region (Southeast Asia). Four stories tall with two display areas, a workshop and office totalling 130,000 square feet is pretty large for a brand that is only starting its revival locally.

Those that are old enough would remember that Mazda sold in decent numbers in the 1980s with the Mazda 323, 626 and after Proton came along, things got quieter and quieter and quieter for the brand. Only AP or grey imports (RX-7s usually), the Bongo vans and the 4x4 kept Mazda afloat until Bermaz took over a few years ago.

I suppose this is also due to the strength of the Mazda cars – the Mazda 3, Mazda 6 look and drive great and now they're pushing their holistic car concept called SkyActiv, things are bound to be better. SkyActiv is Mazda's total concept for car engineering. They intend to concentrate on building conventional (non hybrid or fuel cell cars) utilizing their know-how and technology to the fullest making the most efficient engines, transmissions, body and chassis. Every efficient part translates to total fuel savings and vehicle efficiency. I personally believe this is quite true as a leaner, meaner car usually gives the best performance.

Anyway, Mazda also believes that hybrid technology means batteries that have toxic chemicals in them (or in their manufacturing processes) and are therefore not as environmentally friendly as they may seem. I see this is actually true especially in Malaysia where we don't even know how our used batteries are disposed. Do we even care?

Mazda also believes that fuel cell technology or other forms of alternative fuel would need lots of investment, and Mazda being Mazda, one of the smaller producers of cars in Japan does not have the financial strength to simply pour money down strange technology at the moment.

Anyway, Mazda's SkyActiv seems like a good bet for this company and one which we will be seeing more in cars like the Mazda CX-5 which was displayed together with the new Mazda BT-50 pickup (no SkyActiv tech here as yet but eventually Mazda will ensure that such technology will trickle down to its diesel cars – very important in European markets where diesel is popular).

So aside from the food, pretty usherttes, an equally gorgeous emcee, string quartet and a kendo display we had the President and CEO of Mazda Mr Takashi Yamanouchi attending the launch together with the Ambassador of Japan to Malaysia, Mr Shigeru Nakamura (who incidently arrived in a Lexus – can't blame the chap) as well as chaps from three different Mazda clubs in Malaysia – the Mazda Club, Mazda 3 club and the RX-8 club. The Mazda 3 club president must have spent the whole afternoon doing up his hair and must have used a ton of styling gel in the process. Well dress chap he was anyway, here seen receiving a momento from Mr Yamanouchi .

Anyway, Mazda via Bermaz intends to ensure that its customers get the best Mazda experience they can find outside of Japan. They are currently offering Mazda customers 3 years free maintenance (inclusive of spare parts) and 3 years warranty. Tyres and brake pads aren't covered though. This little gesture enhances their “peaceful ownership experience” promise and actually is pretty good. I somehow think 3 years is good enough as most Malaysians end up changing so many things to their cars after the first few years voiding their supposed 5 year warranty given by some manufacturers here.

So things are fine and dandy on the Malaysian front. Customers get a nice Mazda experience and Mazda hopes to increase their sales to at least 9,000 units per year. They had sold 6,000 units in 2011 and this was a good increase from the tiny 800 or so units sold three years prior, when Bermaz first took over Mazda in Malaysia.

At the press conference which I attended whilst other non-media guest were already busy having dinner, those of us were given the opportunity to ask some questions. We found out that Mazda will launch 8 new models over the next 5 years. All will be SkyActiv based cars which I presume would include the new Mazda MX-5 Miata. No sign of a rotary engined RX-7 or RX-8 replacement soon as when asked, the CEO of Mazda wasn't letting any information leak. He only mentioned that there will be a coupe launched as part of the 8 new models planned.

I personally asked whether Mazda will build budget cars like the Toyota Vios or Honda City. He answered that Mazda will not go the regional specific car route and will focus on quality and build on its current line-up. No sacrifice in quality for more sales. A good thing as I really dont' really like cars like the Vios, City and especially the made specifically for China but sold here Peugeot 207 sedan. We don't need more third world sort of junk.

Go further below to read the official press release and more photos.

MAZDA IS HERE TO STAY

MAZDA LAUNCHES ITS LARGEST SHOWROOM IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

July 13, 2012 - In line with its growing strength and its commitment to the Malaysian market, Mazdahas unveiled its spanking new and impressive showroom and corporate headquarters - the very latest 3S centre boasting state-of-the-art facilities and design - in Glenmarie, Shah Alam.

Comprising a massive floor space of 130,000 sq. ft. and spread over four floors, this new showroom facility is the largest Mazda showroom in the Southeast Asia region. Housing two levels of car display areas and an industry standard-setting service centre, this will also be the new headquarters for Mazda in Malaysia.

To underscore the significance of this investment, no less than the President/CEO of Mazda Motors Corporation himself, Mr. Takashi Yamanouchi, flew in from Japan to launch the new multi-million Ringgit facility. The momentous event was witnessed by hundreds of specially invited guests, business partners, members of the media, as well as loyal brand supporters. The dedication event was graced with an impressive guest-list comprising some of the most high-profile people in the industry.

Also present at the launch were the Japanese Ambassador to Malaysia, Mr. Shigeru Nakamura, the Group Chairman of Berjaya Corporation, Dato’ Robin Tan, CEO of Bermaz Motor Sdn Bhd, Dato’ Ben Yeoh, Executive Director of Bermaz Motor, Datuk Francis Lee, as well as Executive Director of Prima Merdu Sdn Bhd, Dato’ Amer Hamzah.

Mr. Yamanouchi in his speech said, “It is a proud moment for us at Mazda Motors Corporation today too as we applaud the success of Berjaya Corporation, Bermaz Motor Sdn Bhd and Prima Merdu Sdn Bhd in further strengthening the brand’s presence in Malaysia with the opening of this new showroom.

“We at Mazda, prioritize our customers’ needs and wants. At the same time we do what we do best to offer our customers nothing less than the best and what we have here today is our promise to our customers…the best showroom,” added Yamanouchi.

Dato’ Robin Tan said, “With this larger showroom, we are now able to display more cars and this will enable the customers the opportunity to get an actual look and feel of the car of their choice. Our aim is to provide convenience for our customers as this showroom also houses a service centre which can simultaneously service up to 30 cars for greater efficiency.”

The launch was preceded by a motorcade of 60 Mazda cars driven by the proud members of various Mazda owners clubs. These lovingly maintained cars added to the impressive array of new Mazda models – the very newest being the Mazda CX-5 and Mazda BT-50 - on strategic display. The presidents of these car clubs, namely the Mazda RX-8 Club, the Mazda 6 Club and the Mazda 3 Club, were then presented with tokens of appreciation by Mr. Yamanouchi in recognition of their support for Mazda.

This latest and very impressive investment by the business partners of Mazda in Malaysia will go a long way in making the ownership of a Mazda vehicle a proud and satisfying endeavour.

About the Mazda CX-5

The new Mazda CX-5 is an award winning eco-friendly yet powerful Crossover SUV with a sophisticated design. It is Mazda's first model featuring the new KODO - Soul of Motion Design - language first shown in the Shinari concept vehicle in May 2010.It is also the first vehicle featuring the Mazda’s revolutionary full SkyActiv Technology suite. The Mazda CX-5 promises an exhilarating Zoom-Zoom performance and handling with greater fuel efficiency without compromising on the driving pleasure.

The Mazda BT-50

The Mazda BT-50 guarantees pure driving pleasure and tough truck performance. A new generation pickup truck, the Mazda BT-50 is powerful yet fuel-efficient. Coupled with car-like suspension and responsive handling characteristics the Mazda BT-50 makes a truly capable and tough, yet sporty and stylish pickup that is set to enhance the owner’s lifestyle.