2010 Mazda CX-7 Unveiled at Canadian Auto Show

The facelifted 2010 edition of the Mazda CX-7 mid-size crossover debuted at Toronto’s Canadian Auto Show, which has been reduced to an afterthought because most eyes are on the Chicago Auto Show.

Under the hood of the 2010 CX-7 lies the MZR 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated engine, capable of 161 horsepower with 161 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,500 rpm. The Mazda6 uses the same engine. The powertrain is mated to a five-speed automatic with a front-wheel drive setup. There is an option to get an MZR 2.3-liter DSI turbocharged engine, which produces 244 horsepower with 258 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm.

There’s a new multifunction information display in the central console, along with new designs for the gauges. The driver’s seat features three-position memory while the passenger’s seat is equipped with a power-adjustable recliner. There’s a new blind spot monitoring system, larger grille, and newly-designed front and rear. The interior also has more premium materials used for total comfort and style.

The 2010 Mazda CX-7 should roll out to dealerships sometime in mid-2009. Other details should be announced as its official release draws closer.

Source: Motor Authority

Mazda Design Head Quits

Mazda’s Laurens van den Acker resigned from his position as the Japanese car manufacturer’s design head, citing pursuit of other interests. This marks the second time in 2 days that a top designer from a major automaker quit, after Steve Mattin left Volvo.

“We appreciate the contribution made by Laurens van den Acker,” said Mazda senior executive officer of research and design Seita Kanai. “He and his team have taken Mazda Design to new heights and we wish him well for the future.”

Replacing van den Acker will be Ikuo Maeda, who has been appointed as the new Mazda head of global design. Maeda is known for leading the team that designed the highly-popular Mazda RX-8, and was also the head designer of the Mazda2. Kanai added that Maeda “played a pivotal role in the success that Mazda Design has experienced globally.”

The Netherlands-born van den Acker started with a small Italian design firm that worked on interiors for the Bugatti EB110 GT supercar. He eventually got to Ford in 1998, and then replaced Morray Callum as Mazda’s design chief back in 2006.

Source: Autocar