The franchise of the Mazda brand had just changed hands recently with Bermaz Motor Trading, a subsidiary of the Berjaya Group of Companies, being appointed the sole distributor in Malaysia. It needs no remainder that Mazda has had a long history in the Malaysian automotive industry and with this new distributor, the resurgence of the brand is certain. This is especially so with their long term plans and determination to not only reevaluate the existing dealership network but to raise the level even higher with new dealerships which are expected to offer brand/lifestyle experience. A hint of what the future holds for Mazda is the simultaneous introduction of four models at the Colmar Resort nearby Kuala Lumpur at Bukit Tinggi.

Although there were four models, we had the opportunity to have a go at two models namely, the M6 and CX-9 which are more oriented to the fleet industry. The M6 particularly is an existing model that will definitely give the Japanese/ Korean make executive sedans a run for their money with the superior features and decent pricing even though it is CBU from Japan. This is a clear case of the Japan/Malaysia FTA and its benefits.

The new M6 is a totally new 2nd generation model that is expected to follow the success of the 1st generation which was first introduced in 2002. It is based on the Kizuna philosophy or emotional connection between the customer and the car. Its core concept is emotional, sporty and exclusive experience. The segment of the new M6 is between C and D but compared to all its competitors, it is the lightest in weight besides being the largest in its class. As the current fuel price trend is on the increase, much attention had been given to the weight in order to achieve better fuel economy.

The 1st generation M6 had made a big impact not only here but all over the world but the looks of this new M6 will make even more heads turn. The dominant and bold frontal design with the bi-xenon headlights enhances its exception appeal. It comes with a short overhang that is aptly matches its rear proportions. The exterior package had been refined so much that it delivers a Cd ratio of only 0.27.

For the interior, an overall black hue is everywhere including the leather seats. A special feature that is mostly available in European makes is the start-engine button on the left of the steering wheel. This feature alone will make car lovers drool and the competition turn green with envy.  For a car in this class, the arrangement of the bare essentials is commendable. Added to this is the sun-roof! The sound system offered is none other than Bose.

There are two variants offered with the 2.0-litre and the 2.5-litre. As we were allotted the latter, our spin included a stretch of private roads at the resort that comes with about 70 turn one way in a terrain which is both uphill and downhill. The in-line DOHC 16-valve engine is rated to produce maximum power of 125kW at 6000 rpm and the peak torque of 23 kgm at 4000 rpm. The engine is further enhanced with AAS or Active Adaptive Shift, VIS or Innovative Variable Intake System and S-VT or Sequential Valve Timing System. This car shows much character is addressing the terrain well by hugging to the corners and this is an important part of its DNA. The transmission is 5-speed auto/manual with Activematic and the pedal shift on the steering wheel made the journey through our test course so much more enjoyable.

There dual front airbags and the brake system with 4W ABS plus EBD. Some of the other features available are DSC or Dynamic Stability control system, ISOFIX child seat anchors and the front seatbelt with pretensioners. The bodyshell also incorporates the Advanced Impact Distribution and Absorption System.

The colours available are Stormy Blue, Copper Red, Brilliant Black, Crystal Pearl White and Lilac Silver with the sticker price of RM175,596.20 on-the-road with insurance for private registration.

CX-9 is a model that has been designed for mainly the American market where the passion for SUVs with a big capacity engine is in vogue. In fact, in the USA, the SUV/truck market is actually bigger than the passenger car market. It is a full size 7-seater crossover SUV that will match most of the European make SUVs. For Mazda, it is a totally new product aimed to make inroads into the growing SUV segment that has been dominated by the makes like the X3 & 5, Cayenne, ML, Touareg, Harrier and Murano. 

As can be expected, the external poise is muscular, sturdy but spots smooth curves to make the profile and silhouette appealing. Make no mistake that this CX-9 when seen on the road is bound to attract attention. The sharply slopping rear with the trapezoid exhaust pipes appears clean and tidy as the spare tyre is placed under the vehicle.

In befitting a vehicle in this class, the interior spanks of quality and trimmings of high quality. The space available is ample coupled with integrated centre facia that even has a display for vital information. The handbrake is foot operated and is located on the left is the brake paddle. With leather widely used, the seats are larger than normal dimensions to offer better comfort.

For the grunt, the 3.7-litre V6 6-cylinder EGI 24-valves engine purrs at the touch of the accelerator pedal. It is capable of 204 kW max. power at 6250 rpm and the max. torque of 37.3kgm at 4500 rpm. At the same test route, we felt the chassis firm but the time nibble to negotiate the corners comfortable. The transmission is 6-speed Activematic with torque-split four wheel drive system.

The features package consists of the ABS, TCS or Traction Control System, DSC or Dynamic Stability Control and RSC or Roll Stability Control and the rest of the usual including the MAIDAS or Mazda Advanced Impact-Energy Distribution and Absorption System.

On-the-road, the CX-9 is priced with insurance at RM295, 103.10 in the colours Moist Silver, Brilliant Black and Radiant Ebony.