Set amidst the glittering lights of 1 Utama, Bermaz, the sole-importers and distributors of the Mazda brand in Malaysia, recently launched the all-new Mazda Biante luxury MPV and an updated CX-9 SUV. Boasting the famed fuel-efficient ‘SKYACTIV’ technology, the Biante is poised to give those who need a ‘people-mover’ in their lives yet another choice in the steadily growing MPV segment.
The heart of the Mazda Biante is the new-generation high-efficiency direct-injection petrol engine. The SKYACTIV-G 2.0, with its high compression ratio of 12.0:1, delivers exciting performance and also new standards for fuel efficiency and emissions control. It is mated to the high-efficiency SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed automatic transmission that offers smooth gearshifts with the direct feel and fuel efficiency of a manual transmission. The Biante is equipped with Mazda’s i-Stop idling stop system that switches off the engine at idle. This fuel-saving system delivers almost instantaneous restarts.
The Mazda Biante was designed for Space, and the practical and pleasing use of it. The cabin has class-leading width combined with generous length and height. The forward view is panoramic while large side windows with low sills add to the impression of airy spaciousness. Seats are mounted according to Mazda’s ‘Theatre Layout’ with rear seats higher than front seats.
Sliding second and third-row seats to their rearmost position gives ‘Living Mode’ offering second-row passengers limousine-like room. The two wide-opening power sliding doors and low floor give ultra-easy access to the rear seats, while the second-row seats have a walk-through design to the third row; the one-touch walk-in mechanism folds the second-row seatback for direct access. Power sliding doors with safety touch sensor are standard, and the advanced keyless entry system gives hands-free operation. Extremely flexible arrangement of the rear seats allows you to carry virtually any combination of up to eight passengers and luggage, including long or bulky items of cargo. A range of storage spaces is spread throughout the cabin and all occupants have a beverage holder close to hand.
Other noteworthy features are the paddle shifters (above) mounted on the multi-function steering wheel, the broad meter cluster located at the top of the dashboard towards the driver, the ISOFIX child seat anchors on second-row seats, high-performance headlamps and front fog lamps. Front driver and passenger airbags are fitted as standard equipment. The interior of the Mazda Biante is also monitored by an ion generator, to neutralise bacteria and odours, as well as an anti-allergenic filter.
The Mazda Biante is fully imported from Japan and retailed at an estimated price of RM145, 719.20 (on the road without insurance). The Mazda Biante is available in 4 colour choices: Jet Black Mica, Radiant Ebony Mica, Crystal White Pearl Mica, and Aluminium Metallic.
The Fresh-Face Mazda CX-9!
Mazda’s top-of-the-line model, the CX-9, represents a fresh choice for active, style-conscious families dissatisfied with existing SUVs. The CX-9 stands apart from competing models in that its design and dynamics require no sacrifices in roominess, ride comfort, and other aspects of functionality. CX-9 owners not only enjoy the personal satisfaction yielded by the refined design and sporty handling but can also take pride in offering family members and friends an extremely comfortable and safe ride.
The new Mazda CX-9 projects the image of a crossover SUV with unique Mazda values. It is a highly functional vehicle distinguished by a sleek design with long, low proportions as well as sporty, dynamic performance rarely experienced in an SUV. Although CX-9 is a full-size SUV, it has all the eye-catching design and fun-to-drive dynamics that are core strengths of the Mazda brand. The new Mazda CX-9 incorporates the ‘KODO — Soul of Motion’ design theme. The vitality expressed by this design theme and the long, low proportions of CX-9 combine to create a look that speaks of class.
The new Mazda CX-9 is the very word in functional and satisfying equipment. The audio and navigation systems, for example, have evolved to meet people’s growing dependence on information technology, and the improved equipment greatly enhances pleasure of ownership. Highlights include satin-silver finished decorative items which accent the black based interior, flush surfaces for the audio and navigation units, white meter illumination and a chic centre stack. The steering wheel is wrapped with smoother leather for a more comfortable grip, as well as a quality look and feel. And the incorporation of Bordeaux Metal decoration panels gives a look of higher quality and greater sophistication.
The CX-9 is equipped with Mazda’s largest engine – a naturally-aspirated 3.7L V6 unit – for class-topping performance and excellent emissions control. The high, flat torque curve enables the full-size CX-9 to respond to accelerator inputs as if anticipating the driver’s intentions. Combined with the high rigidity body, the CX-9 successfully balances dynamic performance with ride comfort to achieve excellent drivability comparable to premium European SUVs. Powerful, linear braking with a short stopping distance offers drivers a confident feeling of safety and control. Advanced Mazda suspension technology gives surefooted, linear response to steering inputs. The six-speed Activematic transmission provides smooth, positive automatic shifting as well as sporty manual gearshift. The Active Torque Split All-Wheel-Drive system optimally divides torque between front and rear wheels for assured handling even on slippery roads.
The superior performance provides a perfect point of appeal for CX-9 as a ‘Driver’s Car’ while at the same time the vehicle also appeals to passengers as a ‘Pleasingly Luxurious Car’. In its newest form, the Mazda CX-9 is the perfect match for its owners’ active and varied lifestyles.
The Mazda CX-9 is fully imported from Japan which is available in 4×2 and 4×4 variants are retailed at RM 288,404.60 and RM328,404.60 respectively (on the road without insurance). The Mazda CX-9 is available in 6 colour choices: Dolphin Grey Mica, Zeal Red Mica, Meteor Grey Mica, Aluminium Metallic, Crystal White Pearl Mica, and Brilliant Black.
