Mazda will launch its all-new Mazda3 in the second half of next year. It is available in four-door sedan and five-door hatch versions, with either a 1.6- or 2-litre engine. The most significant change is its size - it is almost as big as the previous mid-sized Mazda6.
Equipment level will be higher, with keyless entry and bi-Xenon headlamps.
Roomier Honda Odyssey
The new Honda Odyssey has a sunken floor, giving it
more interior space.
Honda agent Kah Motor has started taking orders for the new Honda Odyssey. The new MPV's floor is 5mm lower, giving it a more generous headroom all round. The car promises to be more economical. Powered by a 2.4-litre engine mated to a continuously variable transmission, it is touted to return 13.2km per litre, which is almost equivalent to its smaller Stream seven-seater.
Chill-red and mellow-yellow Minis
Mini made its name by winning the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally. Now, you can pick up a limited-edition Mini Monte Carlo, featuring sport stripes and the famous #37 sticker. The Monte Carlo is available in chilli red and mellow yellow with matching interior colours and 17-inch white chrome light-alloy rims.
Low turnout at Singapore Motorshow
The recently concluded Singapore Motorshow drew some 50,000 visitors. It was one of the smallest turnouts since the biennial event started in 1992. But considering that only three car brands, Honda, Nissan and Subaru, took part (from more than 20 in previous shows), the figure was not unexpected.
Also, the show was held over the Formula One week, which led to restricted access to its Suntec Singapore venue, as well as lost motoring enthusiasts to the night race.
Hydrogen Power
Mazda has unleashed its RX-8 Hydrogen RE in Norway, in collaboration with the Hydrogen Road of Norway project.
This marks the first time a Mazda hydrogen rotary vehicle has been put into regular use on roads outside Japan. Mazda plans to deliver 30 more units on lease. Liquid hydrogen refuelling stations will be set up along a 580km route from Oslo to Stavanger.
Since April 2006, Mazda has delivered eight RX-8 Hydrogen REs to government bodies and enterprises in Japan under leasing contracts.
RX-8 Hydrogen RE (rotary engine)
This article was first published in The Straits Times on Oct 18, 2008.
