Mazda CX-9 to join above the CX-7
V6, 7 passengers with FWD or AWD

Motion Trends, PR,
4th April 2006.

Mazda Motor Corporation announced today that it will showcase its new Mazda CX-9 seven-passenger crossover sport-utility vehicle (SUV) at the New York International Auto Show to be held from Wednesday, April 12 to Sunday, April 23, 2006.

As a larger sibling to the Mazda CX-7 crossover SUV, unveiled earlier this year at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the Mazda CX-9 is the second vehicle designed and engineered specifically for the North American market.

Mazda CX-9 - The new CX-9 is engineered with Mazda's "Soul of a Sportscar" signature, aiming to blend a sporty driving spirit with seven-passenger SUV practicality, an up-market interior with space and versatility.

The new Mazda CX-9 is powered by a new MZI 3.5L V6 engine driven through a standard six-speed automatic transmission. Final drive is through either front- or all-wheel drive. Brakes are large ventilated discs on all four wheels.

The Mazda CX-9 will be produced at the Ujina No. 1 Plant located near Mazda's headquarters in Hiroshima, Japan and is expected in North American Mazda dealerships in early 2007.

"The North American market continues to play a leading role in Mazda Motor Corporation's global future and financial health," says Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO. "The all-new CX-7 and CX-9 were engineered specifically for North America to help us fulfil ambitious goals."

More detail on specific model content will be available closer to launch, but standard features on all trims will include (North American specifications) air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, cruise control, and six airbags.

To help avoid accidents, all CX-9s are fitted as standard with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Roll Stability Control (RSC) and Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS). An optionally available power-operated lift gate provides one-touch opening and closing access to the cargo hold.

Mazda will also show at  the New York International Auto Show its new high-performance Mazda3 model, called Mazdaspeed3 (North American specifications), together with newly-upgraded versions of the highly popular Mazda3 range.