Mazda zooms forward, targeting sales of 56,000

Mazda is hoping to achieve sales of 56,000 vehicles in Thailand this year, and the new CX-5 crossover launched yesterday will play an important role in helping the company accelerate sales during the final months of 2013. 

Mazda has already received 1,500 orders for the CX-5, which was officially launched yesterday. The automaker plans to sell 1,000 CX-5s per month during the introductory period. 

The CX-5 is assembled in Malaysia and imported duty-free under Asean free-trade agreements. Featuring a host of Mazda’s Skyactiv technologies, it has won numerous awards around the world including the Japan Car of the Year award for 2012-2013. Prices start at Bt1.2 million for the entry-level 2.0-litre gasoline (154hp, 195Nm) model, followed by Bt1.3 million for the 2.0-litre model. The 2.5-litre gasoline (188hp, 250Nm) model costs Bt1.44 million, while the top 2.2-litre diesel (173hp/420Nm) model retails at Bt1.67 million. All models come with 6-speed automatic transmission. 

Mazda Motor Corporation senior managing executive director Yuki Nakamine said the CX-5 is a core model from Mazda’s sixth generation of vehicles that has been highly successful since its global launch. 

“It is like an ambassador for Mazda’s latest technologies to motorists all around the world, and delivers a driving performance that customers had never experienced before in any other vehicle. Today, the SkyActiv technology has arrived in the Asean region and Thailand, in particular, offering Thai customers a new driving experience,” he said. 

Nakamine said Mazda’s sales target in Southeast Asia has been set at 150,000 by 2015, and Thailand is the priority market for the company’s business strategy. “The introduction of new generation models is an important strategy and the first model, the CX-5, has been highly successful in every country. Since its global launch earlier last year, its accumulated sales worldwide have already exceeded 400,000, and I am confident that it will also become successful in the Thai market,” he said. 

Mazda Sales (Thailand) president Choichi Yuki said the CX-5 will become another important vehicle that will help the company break through the high level of competition in the sport utility market. “Development of the all-new CX-5 was very different from other models. All important values are present in this SUV to fulfill the real-world consumer requirements. Thanks to the SkyActiv technology, the CX-5 is a fuel-efficient and eco-friendly vehicle with exceptionally lower emission levels,” he said. 

Yuki said in addition to entering a new vehicle segment, this is the first time that the new technology has been introduced in Thailand. Furthermore, this is also the first time that Mazda is introducing a “Clean Diesel” engine in the country. The vehicle is positioned higher than the Mazda3 and is targeted at an individual or young couple who is starting a family or business. 

 

New MU-X launched

Meanwhile, Isuzu has launched the PPV derivative of its popular D-MAX pickup truck. The MU-X, which replaces the ageing MU-7 PPV, made its world premiere last week and is priced from Bt1.014 million to Bt1.41 million. Two diesel engine choices are offered – a 2.5-litre motor developing 136hp and 320Nm, along with a 3.0-litre unit with 177hp and 380Nm. 

“The MU-X raises the benchmark for the multipurpose segment in Thailand with features such as ‘Super Daylight’ technology found in luxury European vehicles – a first of its kind in Thailand,” Tripetch Isuzu Sales president Hiroshi Nakagawa said. “Isuzu has also developed a new suspension system fitted with coil-springs on all 4 wheels while the rear suspension features a 5-link suspension for excellent vehicle stability and road grip to deliver a smooth, comfortable ride normally found in luxury passenger vehicles. The braking performance also allows for absolute confidence thanks to heat-ventilating disc-brakes on all four wheels.” 

The MU-X is also available with a navigation system, built-in rear backup camera with lane guidance, automatic climate control, and one-action foldable rear seats. 

“The current role of the multipurpose vehicle has gained importance in Thailand’s automobile market. It is the next alternative for customers of the new era. Isuzu understands this trend, which is why we have researched and developed a product that meets the needs and lifestyles of the customers both in Thailand and international markets,” he added.