Mazda MP3 Adds Zoom and Boom to Mazda Lineup

--Performance Sedan Features First-Ever Factory-lnstalled MP3 Audio System --

From the beginning, Mazda vehicles have been known for engineering that breaks conventional rules and forges a new path well beyond the ordinary - from the rotary engine in the RX-7 sports car, to the unique Miller-cycle engine in the Millenia S luxury sedan to the ground-breaking Miata roadster. The introduction of the Mazda MP3 model with its industry-first use of a Kenwood MP3 player audio system is the latest example of this freethinking engineering heritage. The price of the 2001 Mazda MP3 is $18,500 (including destination charges).

"Mazda's objective in building the MP3 was to quickly deliver more excitement and performance to the brand while targeting a group of buyers who want image and performance at an affordable price," said Steve Odell, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO).

The Mazda MP3 is a youthful, fun-to-drive, performance-oriented street package targeted at the growing sport compact sedan market in North America, with possible applications for the European and Japanese markets. Mazda R&D Engineering and Design developed the MP3 vehicle in concert with young, opinion-leading target buyers in the sport compact market, driving enthusiasts and selected racing/aftermarket manufacturers.

The Mazda MP3 combines Mazda's best-selling four-door sedan platform with select performance modifications and design cues from the racing/aftermarket industry, making the MP3 a true driver's car. The MP3 model, developed off the already highly acclaimed 2001 Protegé platform, receives a more aggressive appearance thanks to low-profile tires and aftermarket-looking wheels, a large front air dam with integrated driving lights and wind split, side sill extensions, a large rear spoiler and Laser Blue or Vivid Yellow paint.

- Industry-First MP3 Sound System -

Mazda teamed up with Kenwood Car Audio to equip the MP3 with, a high-energy sound system, featuring an industry first in-dash CD/ MP3 receiver, the Kenwood Excelon Z919. This state-of-the-art 280-watt, four-channel system features four speakers and a powerful 10-inch, trunk-mounted 100-watt subwoofer that allows customers to listen to standard AM/FM radio stations or play conventional CDs and MP3-encoded CD-Rs.

- Engine -

The powerplant for the MP3 is a DOHC, 16-valve, 2.0-liter four cylinder engine putting out 140-horsepower and 142 ft-lbs of torque. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has been modified by Mazda engineers, giving the MP3 even better throttle response. The performance boost by the PCM is the result of a recalibrated ignition timing and air-fuel ratio. A revised intake manifold increases top-end performance, while a low-backpressure T-304 stainless steel Racing Beat cat-back exhaust system gives the MP3 the look and sound that sport compact enthusiasts expect.

- Suspension -

The chassis and handling refinements on the MP3 were developed in conjunction wilh Racing Beat of Anaheim, Calif. These modifications take the already refined suspension of the 2001 Protegé to a higher level. Sporting finely tuned Tokico dampers, increased spring rates (up 16% and 19%, respectively), larger stabilizer bars (25 mm front/21 mm rear) combined with additional chassis reinforcements, the MP3 achieves 30 percent better cornering power.

Steering refinements include a European-spec steering gear and a 15.4:1 steering gear ratio, greatly improving straight-ahead stability, steering precision, on-center feel and overall steering feedback. The overall chassis performance is superbly matched between steering, handling and ride comfort, while a strut tower bar stiffens the front of the chassis for sharper turn-in.

- Tires and Wheels -

Mazda takes great pride in creating the ultimate driving experience for its younger target customers. Mazda teamed up with Takechi Project Company and Dunlop Tire to develop a wheel and tire package for the MP3. The result is special one-piece 17 x 7 Racing Hart alloy wheels created specifically for the MP3 with ultra-low-profile, 205/45ZR17 Dunlop SP9000 Z-rated tires. Racing Hart Wheels and Dunlop tires are widely known and respected by sport compact enthusiasts around the world.

- Performance-Oriented Interior -

The strong visual impact of the Mazda MP3 interior is a clever combination of texture, contrast and detail. Its overall appearance is a potent combination of youthful spontaneity combined with high contrast appointments. It combines dark charcoal trim with warm silver accents on the doors, console, center stack, steering wheel and shift lever. The instrument panel features sporty and high contrast white gauges. The interior is co-branded with a three-spoke Nardi steering wheel, Kenwood MP3 stereo and MazdaSpeed lightweight performance pedals. To enhance the performance feel of the MP3, the shift lever has been shortened and the clutch pedal adjusted for firmer feedback.

Mazda North American Operations is responsible for the sales and marketing, customer parts and service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., MNAO has more than 700 dealerships nationwide.

[ Back ]