Mazda Fuel Magazine-2008-sept-oct

ISSUE55 ISSUE VOL. 8 Sept. – Oct. 2008

Zoom-Zoom. Forever.

CX-9 Donation to Idaho Youth Ranch Page 3

MazTech World Final

Postcards from Portland

MyMazda.com

Page 4

Page 8

Page 10

The Speed of Sound Musician/Graphic Designer Loves his RX-7 for Design and Function

CONTENTS

Maurice Tani and everything he can fit into his RX-7.

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aurice Tani is a multi-talented modern day renaissance man living in Berkeley, Calif. By day, he creates graphic designs and Web sites for a wide variety of clients, many in the motorsports world, including our own MAZDASPEED team. By night, he plays in an alt-country band, ‘77 El Deora. FUEL Magazine sat down with Maurice to talk about his music and his car. Q:  Where does the band name come from? A:  It is taken from a rather obscure custom luxury car from the ‘70s that set the bar, in my humble opinion, for automotive trashiness. The el Deora was a hideous, Frankenstein of a ride based on the Cadillac Eldorado, already an audacious land shark of a vehicle. The manufacturer, ASC, following the classic soda fountain recipe of combining all the flavors into a concoction aptly called “Suicide,” grafted on styling cues from every other luxury model of the era. A Rolls Royce grille. A Continental spare tire hump. Opera windows. Double landeau bars. So much vinyl that it spread off the roof onto the doors. The list went on and on. If it was on something Daddy Warbucks, Uncle Scrooge McDuck or the Monopoly millionaire might drive, it was on the el Deora. Probably doubled.

It is a small car and fits in small places, but is also surprisingly spacious inside. The cargo room is well beyond what one would expect from a true sports car. I can carry two guitars, an amp, speaker and a small PA system back there and still see out the rear window. Many times I have left a home improvement center with the hatch tied down over something that the guys on the pick-up dock expected to load into a small truck. I’ve been driving RX-7s for over 20 years. I bought my previous one, a first-generation model, in the early ‘80s and drove it until it was rear ended on I-80 one Sunday morning in 1997. I immediately bought the ‘91 that I have now. It was everything I loved about the earlier model and more - more cargo room, more features and, oh yes, more power! ’77 El Deora’s music can be heard at www.77eldeora.com.  ■

Q:  Sounds scary. What do you drive? A:  For general, Bay Area urban warfare, I ride a motorcycle. When I need four wheels, I take my 1991 Mazda RX-7, 2-door, 2-seat sport coupe with a hatch and lots of cargo space. Q:  What do you like about the RX-7? A:  I admire devices that are designed specifically for one set of needs. No more than required and no less. Lightness and strength are always in opposition in motorsports. It’s something to the effect that a perfect race car is one that falls completely apart as soon as it crosses the finish line in first place. The idea being that a part made to outlast its assigned task is probably too heavy and is actually slowing the car down. It is as if the RX-7 was designed specifically for me, my life and my needs. My wife and I have no kids. Most of the time I’m alone in the car. A two-seater is more than sufficient.

A recent Maurice Tani design project was a media reception invitation for the Mazda ALMS race car.

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First Lap

3-5

Spotlight

6-7 8-9 10 10 11-14 15-16

11-14

All-New MAZDA3 Sedan Sesi Mazda Sponsors Top of the Park Festival MAZDA5 wins WARD’S Interiors Award CX-9 Donation Garners National Attention MazTech World Final 2008 Perfect Delivery Made Easy John F. Petrulis

Pit Row UPS Discount Puts Mazda Dealers in the Driver’s Seat Top 25 Dealers: Parts & Service Innovative Heating System Burns Recycled Motor Oil MAZDA6 and Core Product Road Show

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Fast Track Postcards from Portland

E-Motion MyMazda.com – New Owners Web site

Gear Glitz

2009 MAZDA6 Accessories

Cover Story What’s New for 2009 – The Best Mazda Lineup Ever

Front Line Mazda CPO Dealer Success Story Kiplinger’s Awards for Mazda Top 25 Dealers: Sales President’s Club Regional Dealer Meeting Schedule

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Mazda FUEL® magazine is published by Mazda North American Operations and is an internal publication intended for employees of Mazda dealerships and Mazda North American Operations. Feedback is welcome and encouraged. Please address all correspondence to: FUEL Feedback, c/o Mazda North American Operations,7755 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, CA 92618 or by e-mail to: [email protected] or via fax to (949) 727-6813. The content of Mazda FUEL magazine is prepared in accordance with the highest standards of journalistic accuracy and was deemed accurate when written. © 2008 Mazda North American Operations

FIRSTLAP

spotlight All-New MAZDA3 Sedan to Debut at 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show

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azda North American Operations is excited to announce that the sedan version of the all-new MAZDA 3, fully redesigned for the first time in five years, will receive its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 19, 2008. Every element of the MAZDA 3 has been developed for heightened exhilaration, with a more refined sporty ride, top-class fuel economy and quietness. Environmental and safety features, based on Mazda’s long-term “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom” vision, strike a balance with its fun-to-drive characteristics. Add in a new expressive face and Mazda’s dynamic design elements, the all-new MAZDA 3 is everything a driver could ask for in a sports compact.

The brand-new version of Mazda’s best-selling sports compact carries forward the heritage of Mazda and the pedigree of the current MAZDA 3. Since its launch in 2003, approximately 1.8 million MAZDA 3s have been sold in more than 100 countries and won 90-plus worldwide motoring awards, to date. The model accounts for nearly one in three Mazdas sold every year. Following the introduction of the North American specificationsedan, with 2.0- and 2.5-liter engines, the five-door hatchback edition will be revealed in line with Mazda’s global sales schedule.  ■

Sesi Mazda Sponsors Top of the Park Festival

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esi Mazda hit a number of high notes as sponsor of one of Ann Arbor’s most beloved events, the Top of the Park annual outdoor music and movie series produced by the Ann Arbor Summer Festival. Focusing primarily on local and regional artists, Sesi Mazda gained impressive exposure as the main stage sponsor of the admission-free festival that attracted thousands of potential Mazda buyers, June 20 and 27 in Ann Arbor, Mich. With the gracious assistance of John Crowe, director of MNAO Quality Assurance and his team, the midwest region secured a 2009 MAZDA6 for display at the festival. The District 6 Manager team of Mark Moore, District Operations Manager, and Tim Eenigenburg, District Service Manager, was on hand to staff the display, greet guests and handle customer inquiries. The vehicle received much attention and praise due to its level of sophistication and build detail. In fact, many onlookers declared to Mark and Tim, “The MAZDA6 will be my next car.” Naz Sesi, vice president of Sesi Mazda, observed, “We saw this as a unique opportunity to present Sesi Mazda and Mazda’s great products in a venue which was ideally geared to our target demographic. The response, both in goodwill generated for Sesi and Mazda, and reception for the 2009 MAZDA6, was and continues to be invaluable.” Visit www.annarborsummerfestival.org/top.shtml, for more information about the Top of the Park Festival.  ■

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MAZDA FUEL

| September/October 2008

MAZDA5 Wins Interior Award

MAZDA5 Receives its First Ward’s AutoWorld Award for Outstanding Interior Design and Function

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ne look at the MAZDA5 tells customers that this is one unique and innovative vehicle. And it is. From the dramatic styling to the Zoom-Zoom driving spirit to the amazing range of standard features, the MAZDA 5 is changing the way customers think about utility vehicles. But one particular area of the popular multi-activity sports vehicle recently caught the eye of the editors at Ward’s AutoWorld – the interior. After four weeks of comparing 36 competitors from 13 different manufacturers, the magazine awarded the 2008 MAZDA5 the prestigious “Interior of the Year” award in the “Popular Priced Truck” category, besting an impressive group of rivals including the Dodge Journey, Nissan Murano, Saturn VUE, Subaru Forester and Toyota Highlander. Accepting the award for Mazda in Detroit, Mich., was Teresa Spafford, color and trim lead designer for the six-passenger MAZDA 5. “Ward’s gave the award to the MAZDA5 based on the clever packaging of the interior,” Teresa explains. “The third row is mind-boggling - first that it can even fit in a vehicle that size, and second that it is so comfortable. Other vehicles may have different features that are attractive, but the quality of the interior is what won it for the MAZDA5.” Among MAZDA5’s most innovative interior features are a stepped floor that enhances second and third-row passenger legroom; individual second-row seats that slide, recline and fold; and an enormous

44.4 cu. ft. of maximum storage capacity when the third-row seats are folded flat. Other creative solutions include a flip-down tray built into the front passenger’s seatback, under-seat storage for the second-row seats and covered storage behind the third-row seats. ■

Drew Winter, Editor of Ward’s AutoWorld, presents MNAO’s Teresa Spafford with the 2008 Interior of the Year Award.

CX-9 Donation Garners National Attention

More than Five Million Viewers Tune in as Mazda Lends a Hand to Idaho Youth Ranch

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hen The Today Show producers were soliciting donations and sponsors for their annual “Lend a Hand” series, they knew they could count on Mazda to make a significant impact. For the seventh year in a row, Al Roker and The Today Show traveled the country with a large truck filled with goods destined for five deserving charities. The Idaho Youth Ranch (IYR) near Rupert, Idaho, was the first charity Roker featured, resulting in clothing, furniture and food donations. But the topper was a bright shiny Mazda CX-9 that floored the appreciative IYR staff and volunteers as it drove in. Mazda believes the IYR will benefit from the CX-9 because of its work with youth and their families. “The Idaho Youth Ranch is a fantastic organization that works with at-risk youth to help them build a foundation for success.  We’re thrilled to donate the Mazda CX-9; it is our hope that the CX-9 will be a tool that can be used by the Idaho Youth Ranch in this life-changing process,” said Jeremy Barnes, director of communications and national events for MNAO.

The IYR is especially grateful for Mazda’s generosity. “While all donations we received were significant, the value of the Mazda CX-9, at $31,295, was among the largest donations. A vehicle is an expensive item for a non-profit to purchase on its own. We receive used vehicles, but rarely do we receive new vehicles as a donation,” explained Roberta Rene, development and marketing director for the IYR.   The CX-9 has since been put to good use. It is used to transport children to their families’ home, school-related activities, medical and dental appointments and recreational outings. Because the IYR is 20 miles from the nearest town, the vehicle is also used to purchase groceries and other basic necessities for the boys and girls. The Idaho Youth Ranch is a non-profit, non-denominational, multiservice organization with programs and services throughout the state. The Ranch facility is a unique residential treatment setting with 24-hour supervision for at-risk youth typically affected by neglect or abuse, family conflict, mental health issues, substance abuse and/or juvenile delinquency. The ranch allows youth to participate in activities that support and impact emotional and social needs through counseling, education, 4-H livestock programs and an equine therapy component. For more information on the IYR, please call toll-free at (877) 817-8141 or visit the Web site at www.youthranch.org.  ■

September/October 2008

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spotlight

spotlight

MazTech World Final 2008

Perfect Delivery Made Easy

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New Smart Start Guide Aims to Raise Customer Loyalty

U.S. Technician Team Tops 14 Teams from 13 Countries

n many ways technicians are racers at heart. They want to be the first one to finish a job and do it as perfectly as possible. Mazda is fortunate to have more than 3,000 technicians at our dealerships that have the opportunity to increase customer satisfaction and loyalty with Fix It Right the First Time vehicle repairs. Of those technicians, just over 600 have reached the level of “Master Technician” through a combination of technical training, ASE certifications and tenure. To demonstrate the value of Mazda technician training and the skills earned through years of experience, Mazda initiated the MazTech World Final. The first global competition was held in Cologne, Germany in 2004 with the following second and third held in Hiroshima, Japan. More than 10,000 technicians from 44 countries participated in competitions held in 2007 and 2008. The top winners went on to compete in the 2008 MazTech competition. Thirteen teams of two competed in the final, hailing from the United States, Austria, Bahrain, Canada, China, Ecuador, Wearing the official Mazda uniform, MNAO team members (L-R): Pierre Deschamps, Mark Wilhelm, Steve Woolley, RoseMary Price, Michael Capizzi, Daniel Grenier and David Pace. Germany, Guatemala, Japan, Oman, Switzerland, Visit MXConnect/Parts to view the online uniform catalog. Taiwan and Thailand. To determine the two teams that would represent North AmerFirst place in the on-vehicle team contest went to MNAO Team ica, Mazda held seven regional Master Technician Competitions 1 (Mark Wilhelm and Steve Woolley), followed by a tie between (MTCs) in the United States, Canada and Mexico. More than 350 teams from Taiwan and Japan. Third place was awarded to team Master Technicians took an online test to qualify for the MTC. Austria and MNAO Team 2 (Michael Capizzi and Daniel Grenier) This narrowed the field to the top 72 who competed in the rereceived honorable mention for the off-vehicle competition. gional competitions. The top four technicians from the regional If anyone doubts the value of experience, consider that Mark competitions were then selected to represent MNAO in Japan. Wilhelm, Steve Woolley and Michael Capizzi have nearly 90 years The MazTech World Final is comprised of two contests: onof combined experience. Each has spent most of his experience vehicle and off-vehicle. The on-vehicle contest challenged each at one dealership: Mark and Michael each have 30 years while team to solve identical pre-installed customer concerns on a Steve has a respectable 18 years. 2008 MAZDA 3 with a 2.0L engine. The customer concerns were Mark and Steve were quick to share the credit, sending a thank you letter to the technical training department noting, “This listed on eight separate repair orders (ROs). Each team had to amazing feat was not accomplished by just the two of us though. solve the first four ROs in order, and then devise their own stratThis was a team effort! The guidance by our capable coordinaegy for solving the remaining ROs. During the off-vehicle contest tor, David Pace, and RoseMary Price’s incredible energy and supeach technician diagnosed and identified issues on components port, were very strong determining factors. We must also thank from other vehicles including brake systems, electrical and powso many behind-the-scenes supporters, like regional training ertrain. instructors and our two MazTech coaches, Francisco Garcia and Hector Marchisio. Without the efforts of THE TEAMS all of these people and the support of our families MNAO 1: USA: First Place Overall – On-Vehicle and local dealers, this would not have been possible. The friendship between the two of us just made the Mark Wilhelm Boniface-Hiers Mazda, Melbourne, FL Southeast Region team that much stronger. Our passion and dedicaSteve Woolley Go Mazda 104th, Westminster, CO Western Region tion to the brand has also made this possible, and we David Pace – Coordinator can only hope that we awaken this same desire in our extended work family for a commitment to the goal MNAO 2: Canada/USA: Honorable Mention – Off-Vehicle of “One Mazda.” Michael Capizzi Borgman Mazda, Grandville, MI Midwest Region Congratulations to Mark, Steve, Michael and Daniel Grenier Albi Mazda, Mascouche, Québec Mazda Canada Daniel!  ■ Pierre Deschamps – Coordinator

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MAZDA FUEL

| September/October 2008

n today’s ultra-competitive sales environment, there is virtually nothing more important than fully satisfying every customer and then earning their loyalty and referral business. Thanks to expert measuring tools, such as the Initial Quality Survey (IQS), Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) and Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI), Mazda continually analyzes what matters most to customers. In July 2008, to help improve customer satisfaction and loyalty, Mazda rolled out a Perfect Delivery program that applies a stepby-step approach to conducting award-winning vehicle deliveries. Mazda’s Perfect Delivery builds on an existing Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) Process. “Mazda has always encouraged dealers to complete a thorough delivery and required dealers to submit a Delivery Checklist with the customer signature as part of every new vehicle sale,” says Lance Rabun, Mazda’s field operations manager. “But it was not until the launch of this program that we formalized the entire process and put together one easy to use document for Mazda Sales Consultants to use to complete a Perfect Delivery and help ensure long term customer loyalty. Now we do, and we expect Perfect Delivery to measurably boost customer loyalty at nearly all of Mazda’s 670 dealers.” All Mazda vehicles now leave the factory with a Smart Start Guide (SSG) in the glove box. Within the SSG, is a vehicle specific Delivery Checklist based on Mazda customer feedback contained in recent IQS studies. Sales Consultants must review the SSG with each customer to ensure they understand all the features on their new vehicle. Perfect Delivery was first introduced during the 2009 MAZDA6 training tour which visited 385 dealerships and trained over 6,400 dealership personnel. “By incorporating Perfect Delivery into the extremely successful 2009 MAZDA6 launch training,

dealerships were able to quickly embrace this much improved process,” says Julie Ireland, Mazda’s national retail training manager. “The Perfect Delivery process ensures each customer receives a delivery that’s customized for their specific vehicle and the Smart Start Guide serves as a quick reference tool for customers, long after the delivery.” To help sustain the Perfect Delivery process in our dealerships, a training video that models the process is available on Mazda State. The Smart Start Guide debuted with the 2009 MAZDA6 and is now included with each 2009 vehicle. Due to customizable features in the 2009 MAZDA6, a separate Personalization Guide is also included, which allows customers to determine their personal preferences on multiple settings. On a one-time basis, your service department is authorized to make the desired changes to the vehicle at no cost to the customer. The most efficient time to do so is at the first service, but the customer can request them to be made at any time. It’s all part of being Mazda perfect.  ■

Do What You Love and Love What You Do The Inspirational John F. Petrulis

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ohn F. Petrulis would rather be at an auto dealership than on a golf course. He first entered the auto business in 1954, when he started in sales at Reilly Pontiac in Norwood, Mass., and witnessed the dealership undergo many changes over the years before he eventually purchased it. The following year, John bought 10 acres of farmland in Danvers, Mass. and built Ocean Pontiac, later expanding it into a successful GMC dealership. John retired to Florida in 1988, but it was a short-lived retirement. To keep busy, he began working as a service manager and salesman at Earl Stewart Mazda. When the dealership closed, he transferred to Delray Mazda, where he is currently a sales associate. John’s driving dedication and spirit is an inspiration to his fellow employees and trusted customers. He commutes over 40 miles to work, seven days a week, without fail. And in four years, he has been honored as Salesperson of the Month more than 40 times. This year marks John F. Petrulis’ 20th anniversary with Mazda - a testament to his passion for the Mazda product.  ■

From left to right: Fred Krinvic, District Service Manager for South Florida; Blase De Leo, Regional General Manager for the Southeast Region; John Petrulis, Sales Associate at Delray Mazda (in orange polo); Jim O’Sullivan, President and CEO of MNAO; Michael Grieco Sr., Dealer Principal of Delray Mazda; Michael Grieco Jr.; and Linda Helander, District Operation Manager South Florida

September/October 2008

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PITROW Brian Philpot’s department offers “every speed of UPS there is” at Med Center Mazda.

UPS Discount Puts Mazda Dealers in the Driver’s Seat

Dealers Around the Country are Finding New Ways to Improve Business – and Save Money – with the Dealership Shipping Program from UPS

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ou’d expect that Med Center Mazda’s staff would know plenty about customer service in the showroom. But the Pelham, Alabama-based dealership’s parts department is also breaking records by offering its customers more choice in parts, accessories and shipping. “Providing more choices in shipping speed is just another opportunity for us to meet a customer need and build loyalty,” says parts manager Brian Philpot. And he’s serious. Med Center Mazda’s online store offers no less than six domestic, and five worldwide UPS shipping options. “We offer just about every speed of UPS there is, plus we benefit from a 60 percent shipping discount,” says Philpot. Meanwhile, on the other side of the country, Mike Van Cleve manages the service department at Ron Tonkin Mazda in Portland, Ore. He’s also responsible for front office shipping – including documents representing thousands of dollars that need to move quickly. “We need to get paperwork to banks and loan offices without delay,” he says. “If the loan processor doesn’t get the paperwork, we don’t get paid.” Tonkin Mazda uses UPS Next Day Air to compress a six-day process into two-and-a-half days. This means sales proceeds reach the dealership’s bank three days sooner, according to Van Cleve. “UPS leaves us free to focus on other ways to make money,” he explains. Back at Med Center Mazda, Brian Philpot watches the stack of outbound packages grow. Some are labeled for UPS Ground, others for express services. “We used another carrier once, but when it comes to ground and air together, even without the discount, I wouldn’t use anybody else,” Philpot says. The UPS Dealership Program is available to all Mazda Dealerships and includes 60 percent discount for Next Day Air Letters/Packages on UPS published daily rates, free shipping and tracking software, and a dedicated Strategic Account Customer Support Team. For more information, call the Strategic Account Customer Support Team at 1-800-877-1497 or e-mail [email protected].  ■

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MAZDA FUEL

| September/October 2008

Top 25

PITROW

RANKING DEALERS

PARTS SALES (YTD THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2008) RANK DEALER NAME CITY

STATE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

GA DE TX TX VA CA MN NJ UT AZ OR FL FL CA PA AL FL TX CA OK CA FL PA NY TX

JIM ELLIS MAZDA OF MARIETTA NUCAR MAZDA FREEMAN MAZDA ROGER BEASLEY MAZDA CENTER ROSENTHAL MAZDA - ARLINGTON GALPIN MAZDA MORRIES MAZDA WAYNE MAZDA BOUNTIFUL MAZDA BERGE MAZDA RON TONKIN MAZDA CORY FAIRBANKS MAZDA OCEAN MAZDA JOHN HINE MAZDA MARTY SUSSMAN MAZDA TRUSSVILLE MAZDA GUNTHER MAZDA INGRAM PARK MAZDA OAK TREE MAZDA NELSON MAZDA BROWNING MAZDA LEHMAN MAZDA FAULKNER MAZDA WANTAGH MAZDA NORTH PARK MAZDA

MARIETTA NEW CASTLE IRVING AUSTIN ARLINGTON VAN NUYS MINNETONKA WAYNE BOUNTIFUL GILBERT PORTLAND LONGWOOD MIAMI SAN DIEGO WILLOW GROVE TRUSSVILLE FT. LAUDERDALE SAN ANTONIO SAN JOSE TULSA CERRITOS MIAMI GARDENS PHILADELPHIA WANTAGH SAN ANTONIO

LABOR SALES (YTD THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2008) RANK DEALER NAME CITY

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

ROSENTHAL MAZDA - ARLINGTON WALSER BURNSVILLE MAZDA GUNTHER MAZDA JIM ELLIS MAZDA OF MARIETTA MORRIES MAZDA BROWN’S FAIRFAX MAZDA JOHN HINE MAZDA JEFF HAAS MAZDA JIM ELLIS MAZDA OF CHAMBLEE DELRAY MAZDA FAULKNER MAZDA SPORT MAZDA GAITHERSBURG MAZDA BROWNING MAZDA HALL MAZDA KING MAZDA IRA MAZDA LOU FUSZ MAZDA BROWN’S ALEXANDRIA MAZDA MAZDA KNOXVILLE HAMILTON MAZDA FREEMAN MAZDA TOWN NORTH MAZDA CONGRESSIONAL MAZDA PUTNAM MAZDA

STATE

ARLINGTON BURNSVILLE FT. LAUDERDALE MARIETTA MINNETONKA FAIRFAX SAN DIEGO HOUSTON ATLANTA DELRAY BEACH PHILADELPHIA ORLANDO GAITHERSBURG CERRITOS VIRGINIA BEACH CINCINNATI DANVERS ST. LOUIS ALEXANDRIA KNOXVILLE

VA MN FL GA MN VA CA TX GA FL PA FL MD CA VA OH MA MO VA TN HAMILTON SQUARE NJ IRVING TX RICHARDSON TX ROCKVILLE MD BURLINGAME CA

CARE SERVICE INDEX (ROLLING 3 MONTHS THROUGH SEPT. 2008) RANK

1T 1T 1T 1T 1T 1T 1T 1T 1T 1T 11T 11T 13 14 15 16 17 18 19T 19T 21 22T 22T 24T 24T

DEALER NAME CITY

DICK EDWARDS MAZDA TASCA MAZDA RAY PRICE MAZDA CARSON CITY MAZDA CHARLIE OBAUGH MAZDA DEERY MAZDA BRUCE WALTERS MAZDA SOUTHLAND MAZDA MILLER HILL MAZDA ROYAL MAZDA FIVE STAR MAZDA SCOT MAZDA QUALITY MAZDA CHAMPION MAZDA BOB HALL’S MAZDA WANTAGH MAZDA NAPLETON’S MAZDA MURRAY MAZDA STUART POWELL MAZDA TWIN CITY MAZDA SUNBELT MAZDA VARNEY MAZDA CHAMPION MAZDA SANDY SANSING MAZDA WHIDBEY ISLAND MAZDA

ST. SCORE

MANHATTAN KS SEEKONK MA EAST STROUDS PA CARSON CITY NV STAUNTON VA WEST BURLING IA PIKEVILLE KY NATCHEZ MS DULUTH MN BLOOMINGTON IN MACON GA BENNINGTON VT TUSCALOOSA AL WINDSOR CO YAKIMA WA WANTAGH NY BOURBONNAIS IL GRESHAM OR DANVILLE KY ALCOA TN MERIDIAN MS BANGOR ME BROCKTON MA PENSACOLA FL OAK HARBOR WA

100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 99.6 99.6 99.5 99.5 99.4 99.0 98.7 98.6 98.5 98.5 98.4 98.2 98.2 98.1 98.1

T = Tie Results based on financial statement data submitted to MNAO as of October 13, 2008.

Innovative Heating System Burns Recycled Motor Oil

As One New Jersey Mazda Dealership Expanded, it Simultaneously Lowered its Heating Costs

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hen Schwartz Mazda in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, was reconstructed in 2000, principals Jim and Jon Schwartz were determined to do something good for the dealership’s bottom line and the environment at the same time. That’s exactly what they did by installing a new service-area heating system, powered by recycled motor oil, to produce plenty of heat without using outside natural gas or heating oil. The system, manufactured by Clean Burn Energy Systems (www.cleanburn.com), harnesses the potential energy found in used engine oil drained out of customer Mazdas during oil and filter changes. The result is a comfortably warm workspace during long New Jersey winters and a much lower heating bill besides. “We got tired of selling the oil in the summer and then buying it back in the winter,” Jim Schwartz explains. “You always wonder where it ends up, and this way we have control over where it’s going.” He adds that the emissions technology for such systems has greatly improved in recent years, and that the newer units burn hotter and cleaner than ever. An annual inspection by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Pro-

tection ensures that emissions are within prescribed limits. The Schwartz brothers found the waste-oil heating system to be cost-effective, as well as taking the service dealership “off the grid” for buying outside heating energy. “The heating unit costs about $12,500, plus installation of about $1,000,” Jim continues. “Based on the last time we looked at it, we probably save about $200 to $500 a month even without getting paid 25 or 30 cents a gallon for the waste oil we would have otherwise sold. The unit basically paid for itself in the first 24 months.” Schwartz Mazda still sells most of its waste oil during the warmer months, but in autumn, service employees begin transferring it to an approved 1,000-gallon storage tank that supplies the heating system. If service business is good, the backup natural-gas system only kicks on 10 or 12 times per winter. “One of the things we tend to do is merchandise oil changes so we can keep used oil coming in to keep the heater going,” Jim adds. “Usually we can keep the service department in the high 60s all day long.” And with a service area measuring nearly 10,000 square feet, that’s no small task.  ■

On the Road Again

MAZDA6 and Core Product Roadshow

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alph Waldo Emerson was quoted as saying, “Life is a succession of lessons, which must be lived to be understood.” The Mazda equivalent to Waldo’s quote is that life is a succession of lessons, which must be driven to be understood. Mazda communicates this “succession of lessons” through continuous product training on the core vehicles, and to ensure dealership employees are challenged in an engaging training format, Mazda is always providing something new throughout the year.

MAZDA6 Training Roadshow The Mazda Retail Training department transported the 2009 MAZDA6 Roadshow to dealers this summer, and it was a huge success.  Professional facilitators conducted two half-day sessions in 385 dealerships and four major cities. The four-hour, interactive, in-dealership sessions allowed consultants to be trained in the dealership, focusing on new MAZDA6 features, technology, volume targets, competitive information and the new Perfect Delivery Process. The sessions also included a one-of-a-kind Mazda Test Drive Experience with customized dealership routes. Other dealerships participated in one of four in-market training sessions conducted at hotel venues. The three-hour, facilitator-led, static sessions covered training on the MAZDA6, as well as video training on the Mazda Test Drive Experience and Perfect Delivery Process. The MAZDA6 Roadshow reached 6,140 consultants through in-dealership training and an additional 300 consultants through in-market training, bringing the total number of dealership employees trained to 6,440 – 29 percent more than the original goal of 5,000 participants.  This level of attendance ensures dealership employees are prepared to sell and service the all-new MAZDA6.

Core Product Training Roadshow The 2009 Mazda Core Product Roadshow is a comprehensive training program designed to help increase vehicle and service sales, and build owner loyalty with the MAZDA3, MAZDA6, Mazda CX-7 and Mazda CX-9. The Roadshow is in full-swing this fall with professional facilitators conducting two half-day sessions in 250 dealerships and five major cities. The four-hour, static training sessions ensure dealership employees can identify key vehicles characteristics, present key competitive advantages, deliver a vehicle-specific Mazda Test Drive Experience, and conduct a perfect delivery using the Mazda Smart Start Guide. The MAZDA6 and Core Product Roadshows are two perfect examples of Mazda’s ongoing training offerings. And if you liked what you saw at those training sessions, get yourself geared up for the 2010 MAZDA3 training coming your way in early 2009.  ■

September/October 2008

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Fasttrack

Fasttrack

Postcards from Portland

Mazda Saves Grand Prix of Portland after Champ Car Demise

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hile the last minute pre-season unification of open wheel racing in America was good news long-term, it created significant scheduling challenges this year for the Mazda-supported series: Cooper Tires Atlantic, Star Mazda, Skip Barber and Playboy MX-5 Cup. Mazda stepped up to work with the organizers of the Grand Prix of Portland, held at beautiful Portland International Raceway, to make it a Star Mazda / MX-5 Cup doubleheader with a wide variety of youth-oriented activities throughout the weekend. In addition to the professional races, the weekend featured a pair of Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Spec Miata club races, nighttime drag racing for street legal cars, motocross, a time attack and a car show cruise-in. Thus, in addition to the spectator audience, there were hundreds of active participants who enjoyed the Mazda-themed weekend.  ■

A group of Mazda racers stopped by the Oregon Humane Society to promote shelter animal adoptions. Animals were named in honor of our drivers, our authors and Playboy Playmates. There was also a kitten named Zoom-Zoom and a dog named Cosmo, both of whom have since found loving homes.

In the Playboy MX-5 Cup race, Brad Rampelberg carried a “Racing for Patti” sticker in honor of Patti Wilhelm, who was profiled in the July/August issue of FUEL. Brad, the 2007 SCCA Spec Miata club racing champion, carried Patti to his first ever professional race win. A fan highlight of the weekend was the autograph session with the Mazda racers and Playboy Playmates. Fast Guys, Rich Guys, and Idiots was first published in 1986 and was hailed by Brock Yates as one of the five best books ever written on racing. For more information on the book, visit www.sammoses.com.

The Art of Racing in the Rain has spent much of the summer on The New York Times best seller list. It is a wonderful story about a young racer chasing his dream. For more information on the book, visit www.goenzo.com.

Mazda promoted a race within a race - a battle of two authors. Former Sports Illustrated Motorsports Editor Sam Moses, author of Fast Guys, Rich Guys, and Idiots, raced against Garth Stein, author of the Art of Racing in the Rain. The weekend featured a Star Mazda doubleheader. The Saturday race was won by Tom Gladdis with the Sunday feature won by John Edwards. 8 |

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e-Motion MyMazda.com Goes Interactive

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azda’s customer Web site has an exciting new look and content that makes ownership easier, and more fun. Available by registering at MyMazda.com, Mazda’s Web site for owners is designed to help customers better enjoy their vehicle, stay connected with their dealership, raise satisfaction and remain loyal to Mazda. “The site is anticipated to raise the Customer Service Index (CSI) and, in fact, the whole goal is to make the Mazda ownership experience more satisfying,” explains Mary Maerzke, virtual experience manager for Mazda. “This in turn will drive customers back to their dealership.” Mary says the site averages 4,000 new registrants per month and is up to several hundred thousand customers total. Highlights include: “My Vehicle” Homepage Mazda owners may register up to five new or used vehicles on their own personalized homepage. When a customer buys a new Mazda, they will receive a welcome kit with their own personal URL that encourages them to register on MyMazda. Interactive Owners Manuals Beginning with the 2009 MAZDA6, new online Interactive Owners Manuals will help customers with nearly every aspect of vehicle use. Plans for adding Mazda’s other core 2009 vehicles are under way for later this year.

Dealer Service Coupons Customers will find their dealerships current service coupons – along with an ongoing series of other invitations – in the Offers & Promotions area of the site. Maintenance Schedule Owners can keep track of scheduled maintenance, including when the next service is due and what it includes. Financing Your Mazda Existing Mazda American Credit (MAC) lease customers will value a special video explaining the MAC lease end-of-term process, including the vehicle inspection process. Coming in Early 2009 – Vehicle Service History On customer registration, the Mazda owner Web site will automatically track and display vehicle maintenance and light repair history (such as oil and filter changes) performed at Mazda dealers.  ■

GearGlitz Guidance by Light and Navigation

2009 MAZDA6 Accessories Complement Vehicle with Style and Function

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ome accessories, like floor mats, are simple and ideal upgrades. Others are segment driven – suspension kits for sports cars, roof racks for SUVs, etc. The design of the 2009 MAZDA6 includes attention to many subtle details including interior “welcome lighting.” To enhance the lighting, customers can now add Illuminated Door Sill Trim Plates. The Illuminated Door Sill Trim Plates are a new 2009 item and are sure to please consumers each and every time they open their car door. The new MAZDA6 has a wide variety of accessories, including front and rear splash guards, a rear wing spoiler, compass auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink®, and fog lights. One new item that will work in every Mazda is the portable navigation device. While some drivers prefer the convenience and big screen performance of a built-in navigation system, others prefer a portable unit. Previously those customers may have purchased a generic system at an electronics or discount store. Now, a Mazda-specific portable unit is available. Mazda has teamed up with Garmin on the nüvi 760, which features outstanding performance at a competitive price. Ready to Go – The nüvi 760 comes preloaded with City Navigator® NT street maps and millions of points of interest (POIs), such as hotels, restaurants, fuel stations, ATMs and more. Plan Ahead – The nüvi 760 includes advanced navigational features to take the worry out of traveling. With route planning you can save 10 routes, specify points and preview simulated turns on the 760’s wide screen. In addition, nüvi 760 automatically sorts multiple destinations to provide an efficient route to streamline errands, deliveries or sales calls.

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Make Hands-free Calls – With more and more states requiring hands-free cell phone operation, nüvi 760 integrates Bluetooth® wireless technology with a built-in microphone and speaker for handsfree calling. Avoid Traffic Tie-ups – Steer clear of traffic with nüvi 760’s integrated FM TMC traffic receiver (subscription required). Receive alerts about traffic delays and road construction that lie ahead on your route. Additional Features – Navigation is just the beginning. The nüvi 760 includes many “must have” entertainment and travel tools, including MP3 player, audio book player (subscription to Audible.com required), JPEG picture viewer, currency converters and more. Warranty Reminder – Genuine Mazda accessories installed at the time of vehicle purchase are covered for the full 36 months or 36,000 miles warranty. Accessories installed after vehicle purchase carry a 12 month or 12,000 mile warranty.  ■

What’s New for 2009 The Best Mazda Lineup Ever A

t the recent North American Dealer Meeting, MNAO President and CEO Jim O’Sullivan noted that the 2009 model year lineup will be Mazda’s best ever. Anchored by the all-new, completely redesigned, MAZDA6, Mazda has its most comprehensive portfolio of vehicles yet. Even those vehicles having a “quiet” year have been enhanced and improved. Here is a quick overview of what’s new for 2009. MAZDA6 Sports Sedan The 2009 MAZDA6 is all-new and built specifically for the North American market. Lessons learned from the first MAZDA6 and Mazda’s newer successful vehicles — especially the CX-7 and award-winning CX-9 — encouraged a clean-sheet approach to building the best mid-size sports sedan the U.S. market has ever experienced. All efforts have been focused on a single four-door sedan bodystyle offered in two basic series: the MAZDA6 i, powered by a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine and the MAZDA6 s, powered by a 3.7-liter V-6. The lineup also includes a comprehensive choice of equipment levels, interior colors and distinct interior trims. Compared to the original MAZDA6, the new edition rides on a

4.5-inch longer wheelbase (109.8 inches) with wider front and rear track. Overall length increased 6.1 inches and width by 2.3 inches. Trunk volume also has increased by nearly 10 percent. This larger package not only increases every significant interior measurement, it moves the MAZDA6 from the bottom to the top of the mid-size class as defined by SAE and EPA volume measurements. The new powertrains rise to the task of moving the new MAZDA6 with authority. The MAZDA6 i’s new 2.5-liter, fourcylinder engine has 170 horsepower, while the new MAZDA6’s 3.7-liter, V-6 produces a rousing 272 horsepower. Along with output gains ranging from nine to 28 percent, fuel economy also rises. Highlights of the 2009 MAZDA6 include: ■■ Exterior and interior design that is bold and exquisite ■■ New six-speed manual gear box is standard in the MAZDA6 i ■■ Touring and Grand Touring models feature advanced keyless entry that automatically unlocks the doors upon approach and enables push-button starting ■■ Available Blind Spot Monitoring System, rain sensing wipers and Bluetooth® audio & phone

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New or enhanced for 2009: ■■ MAZDA 3 i Sport model receives standard SAC/SAB/ABS ■■ Remote trunk release function added to key fob of 4-Door models equipped with keyless entry (i Touring Value and all 4-Door models)

CX-9 Mazda’s CX-9 is one of the industry’s most award-winning vehicles. The three-row, seven-passenger crossover SUV was named the 2008 North American Truck of the Year and the Motor Trend Sport/Utility of the Year. In addition to a long list of accolades, CX-9 has received the top rating of five-stars in frontal and side impact crashes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) vehicle safety tests and a top rating of Good from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for front and side crash protection. CX-9 deftly blends sporty driving spirit with sport utility vehicle practicality. CX-9 is powered by a 273-hp, 3.7-liter, V-6 engine and features standard Roll Stability Control and an available advanced Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system. Also new to the CX-9 is the Mazda accessory Dockable DVD Rear Seat Entertainment System (DES) for Moonroof-equipped vehicles. New or enhanced for 2009: ■■ Trip computer is standard on all models ■■ Bluetooth phone capability added to Sport model ■■ Sirius satellite radio added to Moonroof, BOSE® Audio Package and Rear Seat Entertainment System Package ■■ Auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink® added to Grand Touring model ■■ Heated seats and heated outside mirrors added to Sport Power Seat Package ■■ Trailer tow preparation standard on AWD CX-7 The five-passenger CX-7 crossover SUV has a decided soul of a sports car. Produced entirely on Mazda-derived platform architecture, the CX-7 embodies sports car verve and SUV practicality, resulting in a fun-to-drive SUV that represents everything a Mazda should be. Prominent front fenders, A-pillars rooted at the body’s leading edge, a sharply raked windshield and Mazda’s signature fivepointed grille clearly register this new model as a Mazda. CX-7 is fitted with a turbocharged and intercooled 2.3-liter, four-cylinder direct-injection gasoline engine similar to that fitted to the MAZDASPEED3, but produces up to 244 hp in this application. Mazda CX-7 delivers an estimated 23 mpg in combined driving on regular unleaded fuel (for maximum performance, premium fuel is recommended). Inside, the CX-7 is sporty with a high degree of craftsmanship. Enhancing the driving experience is a three-dial instrument cluster, a console supporting the shifter within close reach, three-

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spoke steering wheel and firmly contoured front bucket seats, all provided with a high-quality feel. New or enhanced for 2009: ■■ Auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink® and finishing improvements on Grand Touring model ■■ Side turn signals integrated into the exterior mirror housings on the Grand Touring Model ■■ Bluetooth hands-free and Sirius satellite radio added to the Moonroof, BOSE® Audio Package and Technology packages ■■ Dual heated front seats with power driver seat now available on Sport Model ■■ MP3 capability ■■ Auxiliary audio input jack ■■ Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob on Sport model ■■ Dual illuminated vanity mirrors

excellent value and fuel economy and an abundance of standard features in Sport, Touring and Grand Touring versions. The MAZDA5 is powered by an all-aluminum 2.3-liter, fourcylinder MZR series engine, producing 153 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque, which is shared with the popular MAZDA 5. A flowing wedge-shaped body with solid proportions defines the exterior of the MAZDA5 as unmistakably Mazda, while inside the cabin, the MAZDA5 offers a flexible seating arrangement. The MAZDA5’s large sliding doors and low floor allow for fluid ingress and egress, and a one-touch walk-in mechanism offers easy access to the third-row seats. New or enhanced for 2009: ■■ New Liquid Silver exterior color to replace Sunlight Silver (late availability) ■■ Sand interior color now available with Stormy Blue and Brilliant Black exterior colors MAZDA 3 4-Door and 5-Door and MAZDASPEED3 The perfect sedan for an active lifestyle, the 2009 MAZDA 3 delivers a total driving experience far greater than its price tag would have buyers believe. Offering European sophistication, high performance and advanced technology, the MAZDA 3 is a leader in the compact sedan segment and Mazda’s best-selling vehicle. MAZDA 3 5-Door is a sporty hatchback with design flair targeted to appeal to a youthful mindset. Fitted with a 2.3-liter, 156-hp MZR engine – the same as found in MAZDA 3 4-Door s and MAZDA5 – MAZDA 3 5-Door comes standard with a sport package that includes stylish front and rear bumpers, side-skirts, 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lamps and unique taillights.

RX-8 Launched in 2003, the Mazda RX-8 hit the global market with a serious bang. The RX-8 has won 52 global awards since its release, including 2003 Japanese Car of the Year, Australia’s Wheels magazine’s Car of the Year for 2003, 2003 International Engine of the Year, 2004 Singapore Car of the Year and the 2004 U.S. Best Sports Car and U.K. Car of the Year 2004. It was also named on Car and Driver magazine’s Ten Best list for 2004, 2005 and 2006. All together, Mazda has sold nearly 158,000 RX-8s worldwide. For 2009, Mazda will further the evolution of the four-door, four-seat sports coupe, giving RX-8 a refreshed exterior and interior design, enhanced performance and a new R3 sport model for the ultimate driving enthusiast. Unchanged is the core of the RX-8 – a high-powered, lightweight and perfectly balanced machine powered by the worldrenowned twin-rotor RENESIS rotary engine. New or enhanced for 2009: ■■ Exterior refinements include restyled front and rear bumpers and front fascia, sporty, high-quality finish front and rear headlights and larger exhaust pipes (90 mm) ■■ New five-spoke wheel design featuring a symbolic and sporty design in the motif of a rotary engine with different arrangements for each wheel size ■■ Improved body rigidity with structural reinforcements, the rear suspension geometry has been reconfigured for better handling performance and driveshaft rigidity is improved ■■ Final gear ratio changes on the manual transmission from 4.444 to 4.777 for improved performance ■■ New RX-8 R3 model adds a sport-tuned suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers and front suspension crossmembers filled with urethane foam for better ride comfort, rear spoiler, side sills, fog lights, xenon HID headlights and front bumper to give a sporty appearance along with 19-inch forged aluminum-alloy wheels with high performance tires ■■ Inside, the R3 model features a 300-watt Bose® audio

MAZDA5 The MAZDA5 is a three-row, six-passenger multi-activity vehicle infused with sports car inspiration that efficiently transports people and equipment like a large SUV. Last year, MAZDA 5 was revamped with a freshened exterior design, five-speed automatic transmission, rear cool air vents, improved gas mileage, arm rests, standard auxiliary audio input jack and new interior and exterior colors. The 2009 MAZDA5 continues to offer customers

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frontline Wilkins Mazda Zooms Toward the Top A Mazda CPO Dealer Success Story

Top 10

T system with Centerpoint surround sound and AudioPilot® noise compensation technology, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, front Recaro sport seats with leather side bolsters, leather-wrapped parking brake and Mazda advanced keyless entry and start system MX-5 Miata and Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT) Following its debut at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, additional information on the U.S. specification 2009 MX-5 Miata and Power Retractable Hard Top will be made available soon.

Tribute HEV The Tribute Hybrid Electric Vehicle is a “full” hybrid, capable of running on 100 percent electric power up to approximately 25 mph – maximizing in-city fuel economy and making it one of the least-polluting vehicles sold. Equipped with standard front-wheel-drive or optional electronic four-wheel-drive, Tribute HEV is available in two trim levels, Touring or Grand Touring. Mirroring design cues shared by its gasoline-powered sibling, Tribute HEV offers a bold, rugged exterior set off by 16-inch alloy wheels and new front and rear fascias, hood, liftgate, body-side molding, power side view mirrors, headlamps, taillamps and standard fog lights. New or enhanced for 2009: ■■ New 2.5L 4-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine ■■ Power-assisted ventilated front disc/rear drum brakes ■■ Automatic on/off headlights ■■ Standard satellite radio ■■ Steering wheel audio controls ■■ Dynamic Stability Control, Roll Stability Control and Traction Control System

Tribute Completely redesigned both inside and out for 2008, the Mazda Tribute makes a powerful statement with a bold, tough exterior and an upscale, comfortable interior. Offering more traditional SUV styling than Mazda’s other SUVs, CX-7 and CX-9, the 2009 Tribute rounds out the Mazda family of unibody-based crossover SUVs, making it the perfect choice for buyers in search of traditional, go-anywhere rugged styling. New or enhanced for 2009: ■■ New 2.5L iVTC 4-cylinder engine with 171 hp and 171 lb-ft of torque ■■ Improved 3.0L V-6 engine with 240 hp and 223 lb-ft of torque ■■ New 6 speed automatic transmission ■■ Three new exterior colors – White Suede, Brilliant Silver and Sport Blue ■■ Satellite radio on Grand Touring ■■ Steering wheel audio controls on Touring and Grand Touring ■■ Redesigned front and rear seats ■■ Electrochromatic rearview mirror (Grand Touring) ■■ One-touch open/close moonroof (Grand Touring) ■■ Easy Fuel capless fueling system ■■ Automatic on/off headlamps

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B-Series The B-Series remains Mazda’s rough and rugged compact pickup truck. For 2009, the B-Series truck is available in two models – a regular cab equipped with a 2.3-liter I-4 (B2300) engine and a 4x4 Cab Plus equipped with a 4.0-liter V-6 (B4000) engine. Both versions are available with either a five-speed manual or fivespeed automatic transmission. The 2009 B-Series Truck remains largely unchanged.  ■

erry McGrath has been in the retail automotive business for more than 30 years and selling Mazdas since 1985. He knows the business, and has called upon that experience to propel the Wilkins Mazda Certified Pre-Owned pro cpo Sales gram toward the top of the sales charts in under a year. How does the Wilkins team SALES VOLUME (YTD THROUGH september 2008) do it? Through management team meetings and working closely with Tom Wilkins, Dealer Principal, to develop a comprehensive CPO strategy. Rank DEALER NAME CITY STATE McGrath, general manager of Wilkins Mazda in Villa Park, Ill., explains that the 1 JIM ELLIS MAZDA OF MARIETTA MARIETTA GA Internet is critical. “We know the average consumer spends five to seven hours doing 2 MED CENTER MAZDA PELHAM AL online research for used cars,” he says. “We make sure that we optimize the search 3 PREMIER MAZDA GEORGETOWN TX engine strategy in such a way that they find us from our retail site directly or via au4 OAK LAWN MAZDA OAK LAWN IL MAPLE SHADE MAZDA, TURNERSVILLE SICKLERVILLE NJ 5 totrader.com or cars.com.” 6 WILKINS MAZDA VILLA PARK IL When consumers reach Wilkins 7 MAPLE SHADE MAZDA MAPLE SHADE NJ Mazda’s inventory online, they 8 CLASSIC MAZDA EAST ORLANDO FL find clearly-written vehicle de9 KINGS MAZDA CINCINNATI OH scriptions and professionally-shot 10 FAULKNER MAZDA PHILADELPHIA PA photography. Great care is taken Results based on financial statement data supplied to MNAO to properly light each vehicle beas of October 13, 2008. fore a neutral back­ground to help motivate buyers. Wilkins Mazda wants to sell 25-35 Certified Pre-Owned cars a month so they have invested in a dynamic inventory. “We usually have about 50 in stock, and we research the market to offer the best pricing,” McGrath explains. “When the customer arrives, the car is as they saw it; and at the price they saw it. We believe in the program, and the only pre-owned Mazdas we sell are CPO cars. It’s what our customers want. The 150-point Mazda inspection is awesome, and we back it up with a free vehicle history report.” Doug Boswell, CPO Manager of MNAO, remarked that, “The Wilkins story is a great example of what a Mazda dealer can do with the resources we provide. The tools of the CPO trade are pretty simple. The key point is in communicating the value of the CPO A portfolio of photos can be used to showcase overall quality as well as specific features. vehicle to the customer.” For more information on the Mazda CPO program, visit www.mazdausa.com.   ■

Prestigious Kiplinger’s Awards for Mazda

MAZDA3, CX-9 and Tribute Hybrid Top the Charts in Design and Economy

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est in Class. The term has a great ring to it, and this year it’s all about the MAZDA 3 and Mazda CX-9. In its March 2008 issue, Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine awarded Mazda a coveted pair of “Best in Class” honors that carry great weight and significance. The MAZDA 3 won Best in Class among under-$20,000 vehicles for its practical design; the CX-9 earned Best in Class honors in the large/ mid-size category for crossovers thanks to its innovative styling and standard third-row seating. The Tribute Hybrid also tied for top honors as the Most Fuel Efficient vehicle in the Small Crossover Category. Mazda is proud to present its recipients of the Kiplinger’s Awards: MAZDA 3: Best in Class – Under $20,000 Category It’s no secret that affordable and fuel efficient cars are hot commodities right now. So what tipped the scale in MAZDA 3’s favor against competitors like the thrifty Honda Civic and Fit, Nissan Versa, Smart fortwo, and Toyota Corolla and Yaris? Its fuel efficiency together with its user-friendly design features. “In the under-$20,000 category, fuel sippers rule,” Kiplinger’s wrote. “The MAZDA 3 gets our Best in Class award. Its practical design has been winning fans – and sales.” CX-9: Best in Class – Large/Mid-size Crossover Category As customers shop in higher market crossovers, the easier it becomes for them to get lost in the details of personalized climate

controls, wireless interfaces, and navigation, audio and entertainment systems. This is why it is essential for vehicles to first and foremost attract customers with unique and invigorating exterior styling and an Mazda executives proudly accept two Kiplinger “Best interior that impresses in Class” awards at the MNAO headquarters in Irvine. and inspires. Kiplinger’s editors praised the CX-9 as “a sleek and stylish crossover with third-row seating standard in all models.” Tribute Hybrid: Most Fuel Efficient ­– Small Crossover Category The competition for high fuel economy honors is fierce, so it is that much more impressive that the Tribute Hybrid (along with its siblings, the Ford Escape Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid) headed up Kiplinger’s charts as Most Fuel Efficient in the Small Crossover Category. Returning an estimated 32 mpg combined fuel economy, the Tribute Hybrid 2WD beat out both the redesigned Saturn VUE Green Line Hybrid and redesigned Toyota Highlander Hybrid for the win.  ■

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frontline

finalstretch

Top 25 Ranking Dealers



SALES VOLUME (YTD THROUGH JUNE 2008)

Top 25 Ranking Dealers

SALES VOLUME (YTD THROUGH September 2008)

Rank DEALER NAME CITY

STATE

Rank DEALER NAME CITY

STATE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

NJ FL TX CA TX MN FL MN TX FL CA NJ TX NJ OH FL NJ FL FL LA GA CA CA NY TN

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

NJ FL CA TX TX MN TX FL MN CA TX FL NJ NJ OH FL NJ NY GA FL CA TN FL TX CA

WAYNE MAZDA DELRAY MAZDA MAZDA SOUTH GALPIN MAZDA

WAYNE DELRAY BEACH AUSTIN-S VAN NUYS ROGER BEASLEY MAZDA CENTRAL AUSTIN MORRIES MAZDA MINNETONKA CORY FAIRBANKS MAZDA LONGWOOD WALSER BURNSVILLE MAZDA BURNSVILLE INGRAM PARK MAZDA SAN ANTINIO-W MAZDA OF WESLEY CHAPEL WESLEY CHAPEL BROWNING MAZDA CERRITOS MAZDA OF LODI LODI NORTH PARK MAZDA SAN ANTONIO-N OPEN ROAD MAZDA EDISON KINGS MAZDA CINCINNATI-E W PALM BEACH-S PALM BEACH MAZDA MAXON MAZDA UNION CLASSIC MAZDA EAST ORLANDO-N GUNTHER MAZDA FT LAUDERDALE PARETTI MAZDA METAIRIE JIM ELLIS MAZDA OF MARIETTA MARIETTA MAZDA OF ESCONDIDO ESCONDIDO TUSTIN MAZDA TUSTIN WANTAGH MAZDA WANTAGH MAZDA KNOXVILLE KNOXVILLE

Results based on financial statement data supplied to MNAO as of July, 2008. Due to an error in the previous issue of FUEL, the names of our Top Dealers in terms of Sales Volume as of June 2008 were omitted. Our apologies to those dealers who consequently did not receive proper recognition for their outstanding sales achievement as indicated above.

WAYNE MAZDA DELRAY MAZDA GALPIN MAZDA MAZDA SOUTH

WAYNE DELRAY BEACH VAN NUYS AUSTIN-S ROGER BEASLEY MAZDA CENTRAL AUSTIN MORRIES MAZDA MINNETONKA INGRAM PARK MAZDA SAN ANTINIO-W CORY FAIRBANKS MAZDA LONGWOOD WALSER BURNSVILLE MAZDA BURNSVILLE BROWNING MAZDA CERRITOS NORTH PARK MAZDA SAN ANTONIO-N MAZDA OF WESLEY CHAPEL WESLEY CHAPEL MAZDA OF LODI LODI OPEN ROAD MAZDA EDISON KINGS MAZDA CINCINNATI-E CLASSIC MAZDA EAST ORLANDO-N MAXON MAZDA UNION WANTAGH MAZDA WANTAGH JIM ELLIS MAZDA OF MARIETTA MARIETTA W PALM BEACH-S PALM BEACH MAZDA TUSTIN MAZDA TUSTIN MAZDA KNOXVILLE KNOXVILLE GUNTHER MAZDA FT LAUDERDALE PREMIER MAZDA GEORGETOWN MAZDA OF ESCONDIDO ESCONDIDO

Results based on financial statement data supplied to MNAO as of October, 2008.

Celebrating Mazda Daytona Victories at the World’s Largest Rotary Celebration

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t’s the largest rotary-engine celebration in the world and together, the So Cal RX Club and Mazda North American Operations teamed up to bring SevenStock XI to Irvine, Calif., on Saturday, September 27, 2008 – an event that proved to be the biggest and best yet. Having won 22 Daytona 24-hour races over the last 29 years, Mazda invited rotary and racing enthusiasts alike to share in these victories by taking part in the many festivities of SevenStock XI, appropriately themed “Celebrating Mazda Daytona Victories” for 2008. While wide-eyed auto racing fans arrived eager to meet one of Mazda’s 1979 or 2008 champion Daytona drivers, others in attendance reveled at the opportunity to proudly display their own Mazdas alongside fellow “Rotorheads.” “Our dedicated employees at MNAO and RX Club of Southern California go all out to create the best weekend event for our loyal Mazda customers and advocates,” affirms Kelvin Hiraishi, director of research and development for MNAO. Held at MNAO headquarters, SevenStockXI included a “Build it and Race it” sponsored by Tamiya America and MNAO. This event gave kids ages 5 through 10 the opportunity to build, race and take home a special-edition Mazda Mini-4WD car. In addition, Mazda, OC Circuit and PTI collaborated to bring the Furai Concept Car to 1/10th scale radio-controlled racing in the SevenStockXI Mazda Cup 2008 RC Race. In pure Zoom-Zoom fashion, SevenStock XI kicked off with a karting night fundraiser at K1 Speed Indoor Race Track in Irvine on Friday, September 26. All proceeds of this jump-start to the weekend were donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. On Sunday, Tri-Point Engineering, Mazda’s factory-supported SPEED World Challenge race team, hosted an open house and offered racing enthusiasts an inside look at many of the hottest high-performance street cars out there and provide the perfect close to the successful rotary weekend. For more information on this annual event please visit www.sevenstock.org.  ■

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