Mazda introduces its product range for 2009

Last week the Japanese brand invited us to spend a pleasant day (given what they had prepared and the spring-like weather we had) to test its new models for this year: the 2, 3 and 6 range, and the MX-5 roadster toy.

Last year they achieved a market share of 1.4% globally and 1.9% considering private buyers only. All of them belong to the second generation of zoom-zoom, which they intend to complete in 2011 with the renewal of all the models currently on the market. Their commitment is that by the year 2015 the third generation will emit 25% less CO₂ into the atmosphere and consume 30% less fuel, relying on new engines, the lightweighting strategy (weight reduction) and innovations in safety and reliability.

The day promised to be interesting, since we would be able to test 3 of the 4 models on display, as the route would be divided into 3 legs. The first was the MX-5 1.8 with 126 CV, with a much-refreshed look compared with previous versions, a hard folding roof as is customary across all brands, and everything essential for a pleasant drive without many frills.

At the start I referred to it as a toy, and it is no wonder, because sitting lower than the door sill, being a two-seater and sitting low to the ground define it. It is a calm car, with rear-wheel drive that makes driving fun and is somewhat noisy on the motorway, although the soundproofing of the cabin has been notably improved over earlier versions.

Then came the moment of change: we left the motorway for a winding road, with bends, to feel the driving more pleasant aboard a Mazda 6 with a 2.2 CRTD engine of 163 CV, where the elegance of its finishes becomes evident, and which, had it not been for its GPS, we would have got lost. A saloon very suited to families and a pleasure to travel in. I do not say it is better, but with the MX-5 we would still be going around in circles looking for the restaurant.

After lunch it was the turn of the most anticipated one, the most youthful, which has it all: space, engine, equipment and a very pleasant design. Pity it is not available as a 3-door. The new Mazda 3 2.2 CRTD of 150 CV is a pleasure to drive. On both the motorway and country roads it behaves excellently and will not disappoint anyone. I do not want to give many more details because we hope to have the opportunity to test it thoroughly, and we will undoubtedly draw out its full potential, advantages and shortcomings.