Mazda Kazamai:

International Moscow Motor Show 2008

International Moscow Motor Show took place in the capital of Russia. I must say it has already become a traditional event but this time the visitors are welcome to appreciate a wider range of models (more than a thousand companies are presented) and take a breathtaking look at nine new cars - let’s get a closer look!

One of the most amazing cars presented was Mazda Kazamai (translated into English like "vortex fight"). Continuing the Mazda series inspired by nature, it featured smoothy lines, curvy headlamps and delicious rear (resembling some fantastic bird). The fairy image is finished by large wheels designed in the same dynamic style.

Another Japanese creation was Lexus LS460 AWD which is, actually, all the same as the original LS460 (4.6 V8, 380 hp) but uses four-wheel drive - a considerable advantage on Russian roads, at least.

The Mitsubishi Pajero was succeeded by the new Pajero Sport powered by 2.5 and 3.2 diesel engines with momentum delivered to all its wheels. New cute face makes the whole car look like a friendly guy a bit shy of his size. However, this vehicle won’t appear on European and North American markets.

But this is far not only Japan who brought its new autos under Moscow Motor Show lights. Audi presented the new A6 which was given slight changes in design and was improved technically: changes particularly concerned chassis and control system. Let’s say the A6 was updated - but hardly more.

A furious engineering impact was instilled into RS6: V10 biturbo, 580 horses and 60 mph are reached within 4.5 seconds. The sporty character is reflected in exterior and highlighted by several interior details which bring the sense of dynamics and comfort.

Separately, BMW strengthened its X5 with armor - thus creating the new X5 Security. Its body is told to be a strong shield even from close attacks. Rather a sensible solution for those who live in criminal regions or suffer from a phobia.

The country of vine, cheese and delicious frogs entertained the public with two new cars. One is Renault Symbol which has inherited the advantages of its predecessor on the one hand and obtained a modern look on the other hand.

Much more exciting was the appearance of the new Citroen C4: it not only strikes consumers with transformations in design and a wide choice of new engines - it also offers many surprising features, only few of which are optional.

New Skoda Superb is looking fine and it makes us think that these changes are due to Skoda’s determination to refresh the design, but remain devoted to the style. The model presented featured 3.6 V6 linked to all 4 wheels.

Certainly, at IMMS’08 were many cars which we have already seen at the other motor shows (e.g. Alfa Romeo 8C Spider which I can’t help admiring) - that’s why this event is so popular in Russia.

However, I suppose that the day when this show becomes more prestigious abroad and begins to attract more media is not so far.

International Moscow Motor Show 2008 Picture Gallery

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2008 Mazda Kazamai

Mazda today officially unveiled the Kazamai Concept at the Moscow Motor Show. The concept gives a strong hint at where Mazda might be going with a compact crossover SUV. Small, lightweight with dynamic styling, low-consumption, a next-generation Mazda powertrain, it is meant to appeal to young, upwardly-mobile Russians with a strong sense of style and urban lifestyle demands.

Kazamai means “swirling crosswinds” in Japanese, and was chosen to express the powerful yet nimble character of this crossover. Kazamai is part of the new flowing lines of Mazda concept cars like the Furai.

Mazda Kazamai will feature a DISI engine based on the current Mazda CX-7, with advanced technologies to minimize energy loss and vastly improved thermal efficiency. Mazda’s next generation 2.0-liter DISI engine also has combustion control technology and variable valve control that deliver strong torque throughout the rev-range for good engine response and fuel economy. A next-generation catalyst is used for good emissions performance.

Press release after the jump.

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2008 Mazda Kazamai Picture Gallery

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