Mazda, the company that has staked its reputation on Zoom-Zoom has caught crossover and utility vehicle fever. The all-new CX-7 and CX-9 vehicles join the lineup this year. The CX-7 is the smaller of the two vehicles with two rows of seating for up to five passengers. Offered in FWD and AWD, a 244 hp, turbocharged four-cylinder is the only available engine. The larger and similarly styled CX-9 is completely different vehicle. The CX-9 will offer three rows of seating for up to seven passengers. Offered in FWD and AWD versions, the standard powertrain is a 250 hp, 3.5L V6 and six-speed automatic transmission. With seven passenger seating, the CX-9 will attempt to offer an alternative to the MPV minivan which has been discontinued. The Mazda3 receives the MAZDASPEED treatment this year. The MAZDASPEED3 is a high-performance variant of the 5-door Mazda3 wagon. With a 250+ horsepower four-cylinder under the hood, a six-speed manual and 215/45R18 tires, performance enthusiasts should take notice. Perhaps the most intriguing new product for Mazda this year is the hardtop roadster version of the MX-5 (Miata). With minimal changes and little additional weight, the hardtop convertible adds another intriguing version to the nearly perfect small roadster.

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