 At
the front, the Atenza features a high-mounted, double-wishbone with MacPherson
strut suspension. The upper wishbone is pressed steel while the lower wishbone
features two forged-steel arms, the damper and springs are located coaxially.
A long suspension travel, minimized offset between virtual kingpin axis and wheel
center and lengthened suspension arms assure optimal tire-to-road contact and
feedback from road surface for superior grip and controllability. Low-friction
ball joints in the suspension arms and reduced friction loss in the dampers contribute
to the linear steering response, while built-in rebound spring dampers and a large-diameter
stabilizer bar contribute to improved roll motion and roll stiffness.
At the rear, a newly developed E-type multi-link suspension features a low-profile
layout of coil springs and dampers enabling the entire unit to fit under the rear
cargo floor. The rear suspension delivers excellent handling and a supremely comfortable
ride thanks to a long suspension travel without compromising cargo space for increased
luggage space and rigid subframe.
Finally, to complement the suspension system's outstanding performance, Atenza
features extreme body rigidity - based on Mazda's unique safety body structure,
Mazda Advanced Impact-energy Distribution and Absorption System - and reinforces
the critical parts for improving handling stability and ride comfort, resulting
in superior quality of body structure. |
 Class-leading
brake performance was another top development priority for Atenza. Outstanding
response, linear feel for pedal operation and a shorter stopping distance were
the main aims.
Mazda engineers began by conducting computer simulations to define the optimal
pedal feel under a wide variety of braking situations, and closely examining the
specifications of individual brake components.
The first step was to greatly reduce free travel in the brake pedal by reworking
a number of key brake components and optimizing pedal layout. Measures adopted
to achieve smooth, linear braking include high-rigidity brake calipers, a tie-rod
type brake booster with zero-loss travel, and a new high-rigidity brake hose.
Atenza's four-wheel disc brakes boast powerful, stable performance that exceed
the performance of some premium German vehicles. In addition, improved 4W-ABS
(four-wheel anti-lock braking system) with EBD (electronic brake force distribution)
effectively shortens the vehicle's stopping distance.
What's more, Atenza features advanced technologies such as DSC (dynamic stability
control), and an electronically controlled brake assist system that detects emergency
braking through brake pedal operation speed and immediately enhances braking power. |
 Mazda's
New I4 2.3L, in-line 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve engine is a member of Mazda's all
new engine line-up, developed to achieve world-class performance in combination
with lower emissions and smooth, quiet operation.
This new powerplant intelligently incorporates with advanced technologies such
as S-VT (Sequential Valve Timing) to vary valve timing for intake valve according
to engine speed and load, a variable induction system mounted in the resin intake
manifold, and tumble swirl control valves. The 4-2-1 stainless-steel exhaust manifold
allowed Mazda to simplify the rest of the exhaust system and eliminate the need
for a close-coupled catalyst. Eliminating the close-coupled catalyst and locating
it under the floor reduce engine back pressure, helping improve real-world performance
and high-speed fuel economy. The New I4 2.3L engine also features an all-aluminum
cylinder block with a ribbed ladder-frame structure, and balance shaft, measures
that all contribute to the engine's extreme durability and smooth operation. |
|
