Atenza SPORT WAGON 4WD Enhances Zoom-Zoom Performance

- Equipped with all-new 4WD system combined with enhanced driving dynamics and handling stability -

Mazda Motor Corporation has added a 4WD model to all-new mid-size "Mazda Atenza SPORT WAGON." Boasting enhanced handling stability and driving dynamics for slippery and snowy road conditions, the SPORT WAGON 4WD will go on sale on August 1 at Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealerships throughout Japan. Mazda Atenza SPORT WAGON 4WD 23S Based on the 2.3-liter MZR engine SPORT WAGON, two grades are available for the new 4WD model to draw in customers seeking sporty driving performance combined with exceptional functionality and class-topping cargo room. In addition, an electronically-controlled 5-speed Activematic transmission is adopted to deliver superb driving performance and excellent fuel economy. Joe Bakaj, a senior advisor in charge of Mazda's design and product development says, "The addition of the 4WD model is the ultimate expression of one aspect of Atenza concept - cutting-edge performance and advanced safety features. It will further reinforce the Atenza lineup." Including the 4WD model, overall monthly sales target for the Atenza series is set at 2,500 units. Atenza made its debut on May 20, rolling out two body styles: 5-door "SPORT" FWD and 4-door "SEDAN" FWD. Initial customer response in the first month of sales has shown they are particularly attracted to its "good styling," "handling performance" and "roomy interior and trunk space." SPORT WAGON FWD will soon go on sale on June 24 at Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealerships throughout Japan. Sales fairs will be held on June 29 and 30. Characteristics and Outline of the 4WD system (1) Characteristics 1) Superb driving dynamics and handling stability on the snowy roads 2) Driving dynamics like directly connected 4WD without changing switches 3) Enhanced fuel economy by reducing losses in rear torque transfer on highways 4) Enhanced active safety performance (2) Outline The remarkable 4WD feature employed in Atenza SPORT WAGON is an all-new active torque control coupling system. This is an all-new electronically-controlled 4WD system that has been developed to provide excellent active safety and superb handling stability at high speed and on the slippery, snowy roads. Depending on the speed and throttle angle, the active torque control coupling system (wet multiplate clutch) in the rear differential is variably controlled to optimize engine torque for the rear wheels. It also provides stable start and hill-climbing in snowy condition through direct connection of the four wheels at a low speed range. While cornering, detect the revolving speed of the throttle angle and the four wheels, and appropriately controls engine torque allocation for the rear wheels, to provide handling stability on slippery roads. On highways, the system reduces losses in torque transfer by lowering rear traction, which results in enhanced fuel economy. In addition, when accelerating/slowing down to corner or change lanes, it instantly increases rear traction to enhance handling stability. Exceptional active safety is realized through parallel control between 4W-ABS and DSC (Dynamic Stability Control). Outline of 5-speed Activematic The automatic transmission employed in the 5-speed Activematic that enables easy shift changes without changing switches offers enhanced fuel economy and quiet operation at high speed, while delivering smooth driving performance. With wide gear ratio from 1st to 5th and adoption of a final gear at a high speed, dynamic performance at 1-speed and 4-speed has been enhanced, while engine speed at 5-speed is reduced. The result is excellent fuel economy and quiet operation. In addition, the Activematic delivers smooth and comfortable driving performance by precisely controlling transmission oil pressure, adopting a slope control system that prevents "shift-busy" operation in hill-climbing, and that reduces down-hill braking. Modifications from FWD models - Equipped with an active torque control coupling 4WD system - Electronically-controlled 5-speed Activematic - Front wiper deicer, heated mirrors - Engine output / torque   In-line 4-cylinder 2300 DOHC <MZR> Engine Capacity 2,260cc Maximum Output (NET) 129kW (175PS) / 6,500rpm Maximum Torque (NET) 213N•m(21.7kg-m) / 4,000rpm Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (Excluding tax) (Unit: 1,000 yen) Body Type Engine Transmission Grade Retail price SPORT WAGON In-line 4-cylinder 2300 DOHC <MZR> Activematic 5EC-AT 23C 2,300 23S 2,500 *All vehicles are 4WD model.