First Drive Mazda MX-5 - End of August 2015 ago, Mazda Motor Corporation ASEAN Media Forum organized by inviting journalists from all ...
First Drive Mazda MX-5 - End of August 2015 ago, Mazda Motor Corporation ASEAN Media Forum organized by inviting journalists from all ASEAN countries come directly to Mazda headquarters in Hiroshima, Japan. On the occasion, the journalists from Indonesia, Brunei, Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Singapore and Vietnam get a full explanation of the entire process of creating a product of Mazda.
Starting from the philosophy used in designing a car Mazda, until completion of the process of car assembly at the factory, all shown in detail by Mazda to the journalist. The climax is when all the journalists get the chance to sample the latest products directly sportcar Mazda, the Mazda MX-5 directly in the test circuit Mazda, Mine Proving Ground, 100 km to the south of the city of Hiroshima.
MX-5 can be called as one of the icons for Mazda that carries a strong philosophy in the creation of their product, namely "Jinba Ittai". Four kanji literally means "horse and rider become one" illustrates that in every manufacturing of its products, Mazda has always made an integral part of the driver of the car he was driving. This has applied since the first-generation MX-5 in 1989, and make it one of the most successful two-seat sport car in the world.
And after going through two generations with change in size, weight and features offered to maintain a variety of advantages, the MX-5 this latest generation, the great revolutions made by Mazda. Munenori Yamaguchi, Project Manager of the Mazda MX-5 states that the latest MX-5 was designed from zero by adding the element of "Sensation-Kan" which focuses more on the thrill of driving. And it is believed by Yamaguchi can be obtained thanks to the application of KODO design and distinctive Mazda SkyActiv technology.
Design
As mentioned, the design of Mazda's Kodo design philosophy that is inspired by the movement of which is owned by the Cheetah. This also appears in the latest MX-5. Now it looks more aggressive, with curves that form similar line Cheetah muscles while running from the front fenders to the rear. Shape of the headlamps narrowed as demonstrated sharpness performance offered by the MX-5. At the rear, the rounded lights as if to leave the values of the legend of the previous generation MX-5.
From the figure, this brand-new MX-5 is smaller than its predecessor. Dimensions are 105 mm shorter, lower by 20 mm, although over a width of 10 mm. Wheel axis distance is also smaller 20 mm, with overhangs are also getting smaller. To provide a more comfortable ride, Mazda advancing front fenders by 80 mm so that the position of the pedals is more comfortable for the driver. Total weight was also trimmed to 100 kg compared to the previous generation, among others thanks to the use of chassis, engine, transmission and suspension are lighter.
Machine
Beneath the hood there is a 4-cylinder engine of 1.5 liter SkyActiv which berkompresi high tech. It is mentioned by engineers Mazda could deliver greater performance with high efficiency without the need for additional devices, like a turbo. 131 hp peak power that can be achieved at 7,000 rpm and peak torque of 150 Nm at 4500 rpm. In the ranks of our test car, there are two transmission options, the 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.
Driving and Control
Being behind the wheel, the driving position offers a low, but forward visibility remains good. Windshield sloping slightly restrict the viewing space, but with the roof open, the cabin is limited feeling vanished. Sound when the engine is on, it is not cruel V8 engine noise, but was fitted with a small figure.
On the first occasion, I get the MX-5 with a 6-speed manual transmission. Acceleration feels instantly lifted so the clutch pedal and the gas pedal dibejak strong. Even when the shift to 2nd gear, the wheels are still able to spin. Power distribution to the rear wheels so easy to set up with your right foot, with a weight of only 1,040 kg, the car feels light to this very rushed.
With a balanced 50:50 weight distribution front and rear, this makes this car was easily directed. His rigid chassis does not make a movement in the corner so solid, but it is smooth and easily controlled through precise circumference of the wheel. In the test circuit sepanjanh 3.3 km full of the curve, driving the MX-5 feels very pleasant.
What kind of a more complete experience try the MX-5? Consider the Indonesian edition of Autocar magazine in October 2015, including experience tested the Mazda MX-5 automatic transmission.
