Mazda Launches Fully Redesigned Atenza; All-new Mazda Atenza Delivers Advanced Environmental and Safety Features Coupled with Superb High Speed Stability and Comfort

JCN Newswires, Jan 30, 2008

Hiroshima, Japan, Jan 29, 2008 - (JCN Newswire) - Mazda Motor Corporation has announced the launch of the fully remodeled Mazda Atenza (known as the all-new Mazda6 overseas) in Japan. Available in three body styles - Sedan, Sport (5-door hatchback), and Sport Wagon - Mazda's globally acclaimed mid-size car goes on sale from today at all Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealerships throughout Japan.

Developed in line with Mazda's Zoom-Zoom evolution concept, the all-new Mazda Atenza's design theme is "Bold & Exquisite." The exterior look expresses a combination of athleticism and delicate grace in all three body styles. Sporty and sophisticated interior design creates an environment in which drivers can experience real driving pleasure, comfort and a feeling of security.

Launched in Japan in May 2002, the first generation Atenza combined unique and attractive styling with exceptional driving performance. Now, the second generation model takes these characteristics one step further through substantially enhanced environmental and safety performance. With top class aerodynamics, it features improved high speed stability, ride quality and quietness, providing enhanced comfort levels worthy of the "ultimate high speed long-distance touring car."

Mazda's newly developed MZR 2.5-liter in-line four-cylinder engine, mated to five-speed and six-speed automatic transmissions which are newly combined with Active Adaptive Shift (AAS) control*, further evolve the exceptional driving dynamics that were highly acclaimed on the first Atenza. The all-new Atenza is larger than its predecessor, but increased use of high tensile steel has helped reduce the overall vehicle weight. In combination with the top-class aerodynamics, this contributes to improved fuel economy. To lower running costs, the use of regular gasoline is now recommended for all model grades.

Safety features on the all-new Mazda Atenza include Japan's first rear vehicle monitoring system. When driving at speeds over 60 kilometers per hour, this system uses radar to detect vehicles approaching from behind and alerts the driver. Another new feature is CF-Net (Cross Functional Network) functionality, a combination of switches on the steering wheel with a centralized display at the top of the instrument panel, which provide simple control of all systems, including air conditioning and audio. This helps the driver focus on the road and reduces hand movement away from the steering wheel. Other safety attributes include Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Mazda's Traction Control System (TCS) as standard equipment on all the 2.5-liter model grades. Mazda's enhanced safety equipment and functionality promote safe and comfortable driving.

Manufacturer's suggested retail prices range from 2,070,000 to 2,500,000 yen for the all-new Mazda Atenza Sedan, 2,280,000 to 2,670,000 yen for the Sport version, and from 2,200,000 to 2,670,000 yen for the Sport Wagon model (all prices include consumption tax).

* Active Adaptive Shift control: This feature has a slope control function that assesses both the gradient and winding of a road as well as driver intentions such as acceleration and brake operation to automatically select the optimal gear.

For vehicle specifications and full details, please visit http://www.mazda.com/publicity/release/2008/200801/080129.html

About Mazda Motor Corporation

Mazda Motor Corporation (TSE: 7261) started manufacturing tools in 1929 and soon branched out into production of trucks for commercial use. In the early 1960s, Mazda launched its first passenger car models and began developing rotary engines. Still headquartered in Hiroshima in western Japan, Mazda today ranks as one of Japan's leading automakers, and exports cars to the United States and Europe for over 30 years. For more information, please visit www.mazda.com .

Source: Mazda Motor Corporation

Contact:

Mazda Motor Corporation
Corporate Communications and Liaison Division
Phone :
Tokyo  81-3-3508-5056
Hiroshima  81-82-282-5253

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