The European version of the new Mazda CX-7 comes standard with Mazda's Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive system that helps prevent wheel spin on slippery surfaces and delivers excellent traction on dry surfaces. Using real-time information from various sensors, the system continuously monitors road surface and driving conditions and - using an electronically controlled active torque coupling mounted in front of the rear differential - distributes torque between the axles.


Mazda CX-7 Chassis and Safety

A light, stiff body shell ensures the Mazda CX-7 has agile handling to go with its high-performance engine and also provide SUV ride comfort and safety. In front, a perimeter frame, mounted to the body shell by six rubber isolators, supports the powertrain and the engine-speed-sensitive rack- and-pinion power steering and a low friction MacPherson strut suspension system. The multilink rear suspension consists of one trailing arm and two lateral links per side with dampers located between the wheel hub and the body shell to provide excellent motion control with minimal friction. At the corners are 235/60 R18 tyres mounted on stylish aluminium alloy wheels. CX-7's four-wheel ventilated disc brake system forms the basis for the anti-lock brake system (ABS), brake assist, traction control system (TCS), and dynamic stability control (DSC), which are standard equipment.

CX-7's rigid body shell was designed using the Mazda Advanced Impact energy Distribution and Absorption System to provide high levels of collision safety, from wherever it may come from. The body's frame sections are large in size and as straight as possible. High-strength steel is used where it's effective and sub-frame connections help absorb collision energy. Stamping the side frame from a single tailored blank minimizes centre pillar deformation during a side impact as well. The fuel tank is surrounded by substantial support members, which help guard against leakage in a major rear- end collision. Six airbags (front and side for front occupants; curtain airbags for all occupants) are standard and front seat belts have pretensioners and load-limiters to maximize their effectiveness.




Mazda Senku - Graceful Simplicity

- Innovative door and hatch system
- Hybrid powertrain with rotary petrol engine/electric motor and solar cell roof
- Futuristic cockpit with advanced driver interface

The Mondial de l'Automobile 2006 also sees the European premiere of the Mazda Senku show car, winner of the Grand Prix Du Plus Beau Concept Car at the XXIth Festival Automobile International in Paris. Containing elements that could appear in a future production sports car, Senku combines the conflicting visual elements of sharp edges and soft curves for graceful simplicity that is emotionally appealing. To this it adds an environmentally friendly hybrid powertrain with a rotary petrol engine and an electric motor, flying-wing sliding doors, solar technology in the roof and an interior seating system that seats either 2 or 4 people in comfort and style.



Mazda Senku Design - Sharp Edges and Soft Curves

Mazda Senku's exterior design is Mazda's answer to newly emerging customer priorities for products with expressive and emotional designs. Its design language is a tour de force that combines three main graphic elements - body surfaces, a glass canopy and see-through five-point front grille (through which rotary graphics can be seen) - to realize high levels of visual appeal and expression. Other exterior details that help achieve this are its long wheelbase with large tyres placed at the extreme corners of the vehicle, which give Senku a floating look. It then adds a unique Ingot Silver exterior colour inspired by traditional Sushi knives, unique door mirrors, headlamps and tail lamp shapes, to create an overall look of movement and elegance.

previous page | go to page 5