MIAS 2017: Mazda PH stages three-pronged launch with MX-5 RF, all-new CX-5 and CX-9

For the 2017 Manila International Auto Show, Mazda Philippines didn't hold back by launching not just one, but three cars in the MX-5 RF and the all-new CX-5 and CX-9. While the all-new CX-5, the all-new CX-9, and the much-awaited  MX-5 RF have distinct characteristics that allow each of them to cater to different sets of buyers, they all share the same core values that Mazda has upheld over the years," said Steven Tan, president and CEO of Bermaz Auto Philippines, the exclusive distributor of Mazda vehicles in the country. "Always, Mazda's goal is to blend refined styling, human-centered technologies, and groundbreaking innovations to create unique lineup of products that engage and inspire owners not just when they are in the car, but also in every aspect of ownership. Jinba-ittai, or the concept of 'horse and rider as one,' thus becomes more a tactile connection between man and machine--it turn into a strong emotional bond as well." The Mazda MX-5 RF is the hardtop version of the popular MX-5, with the 'RF' in the name denoting its "retractable" roof and "fastback" styling. With the top down, everything save the rear roof section is stowed behind the seats, giving the vehicle's occupants a sense of freedom combined with the reassuring feeling of being enveloped securely in the cabin. Unfolding or stowing the roof takes only 13 seconds, and can be donw with the vehicle running at up to 10kph. More incredibly though is that the folded roof sections and the power-folding mechanism don't eat into the trunk space, which remains at 130 liters--the same as that of the soft-top MX-5. The Mazda MX-5 RF is only available with a six-speed automatic transmission and retails for P2.180 million (P2.250 million if fitted with the Nappa Leather interior). The CX-5 is one of Mazda's core models, accounting for 25 percent of the Japanese carmaker's annual sales, so it understandably wouldn't want to drop the ball for the full model change of one of its bestsellers, and it didn't with the all-new Mazda CX-5. Now fitted with G-Vectoring Control, the system controls lateral and longitudinal forces acting on the car by actively adjusting the engine torque in response to the throttle, braking, and steering inputs, effectively reducing the sideways motion of the cabin and inspiring more confidence in the driver. The all-new Mazda CX-5 comes in three variants, with three different engines. The entry-level FWD Pro has a 2.0-liter SkyActiv-G gasoline engine that puts out 153 hp and 200 Nm of torque, the mid-level AWD Sport has a 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G gasoline engine that produces 187 hp and 251 Nm, while the range-topping AWD Sport Diesel variant has a 2.2-liter turbocharged SkyActiv-D diesel engine with an output of 173hp and 420Nm. All three Mazda CX-5 variants come with the SkyActiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission and the i-Stop engine idling stop function. All variants also get six airbags, Anti-Lock Braking System with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-Force Distribution, and Dynamic Stability Control. AWD variants also get Mazda's predictive i-Activ AWD system which minimizes wheel slippage when driving on wet or uneven terrain but only the AWD Sport Diesel has Adaptive LED Headlamps, Lane Keep Assist, and Lane Departure Warning. Prices for the Mazda CX-5 are as follows:

• Mazda CX-5 FWD Pro – P1.550 million
• Mazda CX-5 AWD Sport – P1.850 million
• Mazda CX-5 AWD Sport Diesel – P2.2 million

According to our source from within Mazda Philippines, reservations have already been placed for the CX-5 prior to MIAS and that only a limited number of units that are making their way to our shores in April don't have any owners yet so if you're in the market for one of best compact crossovers in the market today, you know what to do. Lastly, the all-new Mazda CX-9 comes with the turbocharged 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G inline-four gasoline engine which has been included in Ward's "10 Best Engines" list for 2017 as it "delivers effortless acceleration through bountiful torque delivery, while returning top-notch fuel economy." The CX-9 comes with Mazda's Dynamic Pressure Turbo, which it labels as the world's first turbocharger that can vary the degree of exhaust pulsation depending on the engine speed. Its peak output figures of 230 PS at 5,000 rpm and 420 PS from 2,000 rpm are achieved with its 4-3-1 exhaust system and its exhaust gas recirculation system. Paired to its engine is the SkyActiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission and the  i-Activ AWD system. Also helping to improve the CX-9's performance is its weight saving of 130 kg compared to its predecessor. Available in AWD Sport trim, the CX-9 comes with the Mazda Connect infotainment system, a 12-speaker Bose premium sound system, and an improved Multi-Function Display and Active Driving Display, to name a few, for P2.780 million.