GEORGE TOWN: Mazda launched its Mazda6 flagship passenger car and the retuned CX-3 sport utility vehicle (SUV) here last night.
Bermaz Auto Bhd, the company that distributes Mazda cars, has yet to unveil the price for the Mazda6.
However, the selling price for the CX-3, on-the-road without insurance, is RM121,134.
The new Mazda6 comes in three variants — SKYACTIV-G 2.0 litre, SKYACTIV-D 2.5 litre and SKYACTIV-D 2.2 litre.
The cars are sold in seven colours — Snowflake White Pearl, Sonic Silver, Jet Black, Deep Crystal Blue, Soul Red Crystal, Machine Grey and Titanium flash.
Bermaz Motor chief executive officer Datuk Seri Ben Yeoh said the company is committed to absorbing the Sales and Service Tax (SST) for its cars ordered before Sept 1.
"The absorption of the SST depends on the model but we will do it as per announced. Mazda sees slight differences (in price) so we chose to absorb it.
"The strengthening of the ringgit against the yen also impacts the cost of producing the vehicles. So we are giving back to the customers by absorbing it for an interim period," he said at the launching ceremony.
Yeoh said the delivery period could extend until the end of year, depending on the supply.
The new 2018 Mazda6 will incorporate premium details and technologies based on Mazda’s human-centric development philosophy.
There are significant exterior changes with a focus on premium feel and elegance, which includes new front grille, and design that highlights the depth and wide stance of the car.
The bumper is also redesigned with air vents to improve the car’s aerodynamic performance by channelling air to the front tyres.
Modifications on the interior include a widened dashboard design and an enlarged eight-inch display.
"Our new Mazda6 is also equipped with the latest 360 degree view monitor. This helps the drivers to see all four sides of the vehicle while parking and reversing through its four cameras.
"It gives an accurate picture of the car and its surroundings," he pointed out.
The new CX-3 has also been retuned and refined from its originally 2015 version.
This ride has been refreshed with subtle exterior changes with a heightened feeling of quality and elegance that sports a new front grille with double chrome slats, rear tail lights and rim.
Yeoh said the CX-3 also received an updated dashboard, adoption of electronic parking brake and significantly higher storage space.
"The suspension is retuned for a smoother ride whereas the power steering and chassis recalibrated for a swifter driving experience," he added.
At the event, Bermaz Motor Sdn Bhd also launched its 85th Mazda branch and 43rd 3S (sales, services and spare parts) centre in Jelutong.
The new 3S centre is one of the largest in Malaysia and is able to cater to a bigger and growing customer base in the state, in terms of sales and after-sales services.
"Bermaz’s investment in this new 3S centre demonstrates our commitment to further strengthen our retail brand presence in Penang.
"Our technicians are trained and certified to provide professional services to our customers," he said.
The full-fledged 3S centre is equipped with seven working bays capable of servicing up to approximately 500 vehicles a month.