Staying Ahead of the Competition

Mazda has been on quite a roll lately, with the Mazda3, Mazda6 and Mazda CX-5 taking center stage. These fun-to-drive, safe, attractive and efficient vehicles are the result of outside-the-box Mazda thinking and a holistic attitude toward vehicle design and engineering. With an impressive list of technologies, Mazda continues to innovate and challenge the status quo, giving drivers all the rewards.

Used on the newest Mazda vehicles––from the Mazda3 and Mazda6 sedans to the CX-5 crossover, and soon to make its way onto the entire lineup––is the all-encompassing Mazda approach to car building using SKYACTIV® technology. SKYACTIV® is employed on everything, from the platforms to the engines and transmission to the regenerative braking systems.

It starts with the SKYACTIV-G engines. Both the four-cylinder SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter engines develop maximum power and fuel efficiency through various features. A high, 13:1 compression ratio that increases both efficiency and torque, advanced direct fuel injection, and a more efficient “4-2-1” exhaust system all create a rewarding driving experience while reducing fuel costs. The transmissions had to match the new engines, so engineers studied all the modern transmissions made and combined the best features of each to develop the SKYACTIV®-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, which shifts quickly and smoothly, and also helps improve fuel efficiency by up to seven percent. Likewise, the SKYACTIV®-MT six-speed manual is an improvement over other manuals, as it is smaller and lighter and has a connected, fun-to-drive nature that drivers crave.

The SKYACTIV® Body and Chassis are foundations of the newest Mazda models, and they accomplish two main goals. The first is weight reduction and the second is enhanced crash test performance. Body rigidity is up by 30 percent and weight has been reduces by up to 220 pounds on the Mazda6, which also helps improve handling and mileage.

In addition to the SKYACTIV® suite of technologies, Mazda employs some of the most cutting edge features in the automotive industry. Among them are the i-ELOOP regenerative braking system and Smart City Brake Support. The i-ELOOP system captures the kinetic energy generated through braking (normally wasted in other cars) and converts it to electricity. That electricity is then used to power some of the electronics, lessening power drain on the engine and improving fuel economy by as much as five percent.

Smart City Brake Support is a safety feature that can bring your Mazda to a complete stop (when you are travelling at speeds between two and 18 mph) to avoid a collision in the event that you fail to stop in time. Using a laser mounted in the front windshield, the system scans the road ahead of you and can both reduce engine power and apply the brakes if the driver fails to take action. Other impressive safety features include Mazda Radar Cruise Control, a Forward Obstruction Warning System, Lane Departure Warning System, and Bi-Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps.

The excellence of Mazda vehicles continues to attract the attention of the automotive media; one example is the 2014 Mazda3, which was selected by Car and Driver as one of their “10Best.” The all-new 2016 MX-5 Miata is also is sure to continue the trend when it’s released, as well.

Stop by today to learn more and to experience Mazda technology for yourself.

Mazda Technology

Mazda has been on quite a roll lately, with the MAZDA3, MAZDA6 and MAZDA CX-5 taking center stage. These fun-to-drive, safe, attractive and efficient vehicles are the result of outside-the-box Mazda thinking and a holistic attitude toward vehicle design and engineering. With an impressive list of technologies, Mazda continues to innovate and challenge the status quo, giving drivers all the rewards.

Used on the newest Mazda vehicles––from the MAZDA3 and MAZDA6 sedans to the CX-5 crossover, and soon to make its way onto the entire lineup––is the all-encompassing Mazda approach to car building using SKYACTIV® technology. SKYACTIV® is employed on everything, from the platforms to the engines and transmission to the regenerative braking systems.

It starts with the SKYACTIV-G engines. Both the four-cylinder SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter engines develop maximum power and fuel efficiency through various features. A high, 13:1 compression ratio that increases both efficiency and torque, advanced direct fuel injection, and a more efficient “4-2-1” exhaust system all create a rewarding driving experience while reducing fuel costs. The transmissions had to match the new engines, so engineers studied all the modern transmissions made and combined the best features of each to develop the SKYACTIV®-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, which shifts quickly and smoothly, and also helps improve fuel efficiency by up to seven percent. Likewise, the SKYACTIV®-MT six-speed manual is an improvement over other manuals, as it is smaller and lighter and has a connected, fun-to-drive nature that drivers crave.

The SKYACTIV® Body and Chassis are foundations of the newest Mazda models, and they accomplish two main goals. The first is weight reduction and the second is enhanced crash test performance. Body rigidity is up by 30 percent and weight has been reduces by up to 220 pounds on the MAZDA6, which also helps improve handling and mileage.

In addition to the SKYACTIV® suite of technologies, Mazda employs some of the most cutting edge features in the automotive industry. Among them are the i-ELOOP regenerative braking system and Smart City Brake Support. The i-ELOOP system captures the kinetic energy generated through braking (normally wasted in other cars) and converts it to electricity. That electricity is then used to power some of the electronics, lessening power drain on the engine and improving fuel economy by as much as five percent.

Smart City Brake Support is a safety feature that can bring your Mazda to a complete stop (when you are travelling at speeds between two and 18 mph) to avoid a collision in the event that you fail to stop in time. Using a laser mounted in the front windshield, the system scans the road ahead of you and can both reduce engine power and apply the brakes if the driver fails to take action. Other impressive safety features include Mazda Radar Cruise Control, a Forward Obstruction Warning System, Lane Departure Warning System, and Bi-Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps.

The excellence of Mazda vehicles continues to attract the attention of the automotive media; one example is the 2014 MAZDA3, which was selected by Car and Driver as one of their “10Best.” The all-new 2016 MX-5 Miata is also is sure to continue the trend when it’s released, as well.

Stop by today to learn more and to experience Mazda technology for yourself.

Top 10 Halloween Movies

It's the time of year that's perfect for curling up under a blanket and watching a good scary movie, or maybe just one that reminds you of Halloween.

Ranked from "not scary at all" to "probably going to give you nightmares.":

10) Halloweentown (1998)

A Disney Channel classic, Halloweentown is the one movie that truly resembles Halloween (there's even a giant pumpkin in it). In this movie, three kids are visited by their grandmother on Halloween. The grandmother wants to train the oldest daughter, who is a witch, but the mother disagrees. When the grandmother leaves, the children follow her to Halloweentown. Once there, the kids must help defeat the dark force, Kalabar, that is trying to take over.

Scariness: This movie isn't scary, unless of course you're terrified by the ridiculous '90s clothing. This classic will mostly have you rolling your eyes at how cheesy it is, but Kalabar can get a little scary if you aren't paying attention.

9) Hocus Pocus (1993)

In this other Disney classic, three witch sisters are resurrected on Halloween night in Salem, Massachusetts, when a boy is trying to impress his crush. The witches were only revived for Halloween and must take the life force of a child in order to survive.

Scariness: This movie is a little more scary. Witches are slightly terrifying, especially when they're trying to find someone's life force to take. But this movie will mostly likely have you laughing, especially when the witch Sarah tries to eat everything in sight.

8) The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

In this movie by Tim Burton, Jack Skellington of Halloween Town opens a portal to Christmas Town and decides to celebrate, but he doesn't quite understand the concept and there are serious consequences.

Scariness: You won't get nightmares from this movie, but Tim Burton has a way of making his cartoons a little creepy. And Oogie, the bad guy, can give you the creepy-crawlies.

7) Rear Window (1954)

This Alfred Hitchcock movie is the original Disturbia. When a photographer breaks his leg and is stuck in his apartment, he passes the time by watching his neighbors out of his rear window. The photographer and his girlfriend eventually witness a murder that gets them into trouble.

Scariness: While Rear Window won't have you checking under your bed for monsters, it's full of suspense. It will have you holding your breath and screaming at the TV for the photographer to realize everything you know is going to happen.

6) The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

A young F.B.I. trainee seeks advice from the imprisoned cannibal and serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter while trying to apprehend another serial killer known as Buffalo Bill.

Scariness: More of a thriller than a horror, The Silence of the Lambs will have you on the edge of your seat. And the truth about Buffalo Bill may have you wrinkling your nose in disgust.

5) Scream (1996)

A high schooler, Sidney Prescott, is haunted by the killing of her mother and has now become the target of a killer known as Ghostface, who is terrorizing her town.

Scariness: Scream will make you jump if you aren't paying enough attention. And trying to figure out who Ghostface is before the reveal can drive you mad. But the tongue-and-cheek dialogue that talks about scary movies keeps it from being too terrifying.

 4) Halloween (1978)

Originally tilted the "Babysitter Murders," Halloween opens with a young boy killing his older sister. He is sent to a psychiatric facility and later escapes, returns home and stalks teenager Laurie Strode and her friends on Halloween.

Scariness: Halloween will make you jump, especially with Michael Myers creepily placed in one scene and then not there in the next. This movie will make you highly reconsider babysitting the next time a family friend asks.

3) Friday the 13th (1980)

Synopsis: A group of teenagers are at an abandoned camp and are trying to revive it, but are being killed off one by one.

Scariness: Even though the '80s effects are pretty awful, this movie will make you jump and the ending will make your mouth drop. Oh, and you may want to avoid lakes for a little while after seeing this one.

2) It (1990)

Based on a Stephen King novel, the film features an inter-dimensional predatory life-form that transforms itself into its prey's worst fears. The main form it takes is "Pennywise the Dancing Clown." A group of outcast kids discover Pennywise and are determined to destroy him.

Scariness: Clowns. Need we say more? But in actuality, this movie is creepy, the first part more so that the second. But this movie will have you avoiding the circus and children's parties starring clowns for the next few months.

1) The Conjuring (2013)

Based on the true story of paranormal investigators and authors Ed and Lorraine Warren, The Conjuring follows the two to their most prominent case in assisting the Perron family, who is increasingly experiencing paranormal events.

Scariness: With a mixture of pop-out scenes and just plain creepiness, The Conjuring will have you checking under your bed for evil spirits.

2014 Mazda CX-9 Family

If you’re looking to haul up to seven people, and you don’t want the bulk of an SUV or anything resembling a minivan, the Mazda CX-9, available here at Antelope Valley Ford Lincoln Mazda in Lancaster, California, is the perfect choice. With sleek design, excellent drivability and a really comfortable cabin, the CX-9 is a standout for those who don’t want to sacrifice.

The seven-passenger 2014 Mazda CX-9 (MSRP from $29,985) is available in Sport, Touring and Grand Touring trim levels. U.S. News and World Report evaluated published reviews and test drives, as well as reliability and safety data, and ranked the CX-9 ahead of the Chevrolet Traverse, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Highlander, Kia Sorento, Ford Explorer, GMC Acadia and Honda Pilot. AutoTrader reviewers said, "Beyond its sleek styling and firm suspension, the CX-9's popularity is bolstered by its reasonable price, extensive list of comfort and safety features and strong reputation for reliability and resale."

All CX-9 models are powered by a dual overhead cam 3.7-liter V6 engine with Variable Valve Timing that helps it generate 273 hp and 270 lb/ft of torque. The V6 is paired with a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Logic and “Sport” shift mode. The EPA-estimates fuel economy at 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Drivers can choose front-wheel drive or the excellent Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive system, and a properly equipped CX-9 can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

Among the major advantages the CX-9 holds over an SUV or minivan is its excellent, almost sedan-like, drivability. It’s nimble, with a four-wheel independent suspension that features MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link rear design with stabilizer bars at both ends. Large disc brakes––12.6-inch vented in front and 12.8-inch vented at the rear––help provide maximum stopping power.

The exterior design of the CX-9 is aggressive and graceful, featuring a five-point grille, eagle-eye headlamps and chrome trim. CX-9 Sport trims come with 18-inch wheels, halogen headlamps, a roof-mounted spoiler and dual exhaust outlets. Touring trims add auto-off headlamps, heated side mirrors, an available power liftgate and an available sunroof. Grand Touring trims take things even further with new-design 20-inch wheels, Bi-Xenon High Intensity Discharge headlamps, LED daytime running lights, halogen foglamps, rain-sensing windshield wipers, turn-signal indicators in the side mirrors, and a side-mirror tilt-in-reverse function that helps make parking easier.

Inside, standard features include remote keyless entry; tri-zone automatic climate control; three 12-volt power outlets; a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; and a six-speaker audio system with 5.8-inch color touch-screen display, HD Radio, Pandora Internet Radio connectivity, SMS text messaging audio delivery and both USB and auxiliary input jacks. Touring trims add a rearview backup camera with parking sensors, eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, four-way power front passenger seat, leather-trimmed seating and the availability of a Touring Technology Package that bundles a 10-speaker Bose audio system, a navigation system and the Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry and Start system, among other items. Grand Touring trims include the Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry and Start system standard, as well as an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink universal remote, driver’s-seat memory and Bordeaux interior accent trim. A Grand Touring technology Package with the Bose sound system and navigation is also available, as is a Rear-Seat Entertainment System with nine-inch DVD screen, 115-volt power outlet and its own unique 11-speaker Bose sound system.

Every CX-9 features a 60/40-split/folding second-row seat, a 50/50-split/folding third-row seat and plenty of unique storage compartments. There’s a total of 100.7 cubic feet of cargo volume with both the second- and third-row seats folded flat.

The CX-9 keeps occupants safe with its Triple H body construction, advanced front, front side, and side-impact airbags. Also standard are antilock brakes, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Roll Stability Control, Dynamic Stability Control, Traction Control and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System. A Blind Spot Monitoring System with Rear Cross Traffic Alert is also available.

The Mazda CX-9 is an excellent choice for drivers who need all the utility and versatility of a minivan or an SUV but don’t want to sacrifice ride quality and fun-to-drive demeanor. Stop by today to see the 2014 Mazda CX-9, and try it out for yourself.

2015 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring

Efficiency, utility and fun!
When Mazda unveiled the compact CX-5 crossover a few years ago here at Antelope Valley Ford Lincoln Mazda in Lancaster, California, the company proved that efficiency, utility, performance and high style could live together harmoniously and even be fun to drive.

The five-passenger 2015 Mazda CX-5 (MSRP starting at $21,545) offers Sport, Touring and Grand Touring trims. Drivers who want their CX-5 fully loaded will appreciate the Grand Touring (MSRP of $27,970). The virtues of the CX-5 have been recognized by the automotive press. U.S. News ranked the 2015 CX-5 fourth out of 22 “Affordable Compact SUVs,” ahead of competition that included the Ford Escape, GMC Terrain, Toyota RAV4, Chevrolet Equinox, Jeep Cherokee, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson and Volkswagen Tiguan. Edmunds.com reviewers said, "With its spacious, functional interior, impressive fuel economy and top safety scores, the 2015 Mazda CX-5 is a top pick among small crossovers. The fact that it's also fun to drive comes as a bonus."

In the CX-5 Grand Touring, the standard SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is replaced by a SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter four-cylinder with Variable Valve Timing that brings horsepower up to 184 (from 155), and torque up to 185 lb/ft (from 150). A SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift mode is also standard in the Grand Touring. This powertrain delivers impressive and class-leading fuel economy EPA-estimated at 25 mpg city, 32 mpg highway with front-wheel drive, and 24 mpg city, 30 mpg highway with the available Active Torque Split all-wheel drive system.

Outside the Grand Touring sets itself apart from the competition with its “KODO” (“soul of motion”) styling, and from the rest of the CX-5 family with larger 19-inch wheels, available High Intensity Discharge (HID) Bi-Xenon headlamps with auto-leveling and Adaptive Front Lighting System, halogen foglamps, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a power glass moonroof and heated side mirrors.

Inside, the Grand Touring adds dual-zone automatic climate control with a pollen filter, an eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, leather-covered seats, heated front seats, a masterful nine-speaker Bose Centerpoint audio system with AudioPilot technology and SiriusXM Satellite Radio to an already well-equipped cabin that features Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry with Push Button Start, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, and a rearview camera. A 5.8-inch full-color touch-screen display is standard, and available options include a Grand Touring Technology Package that adds a TomTom Navigation system, the Bi-Xenon HID headlamps, an auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink universal remote, and Smart City Brake Support, which can automatically bring the CX-5 to a complete stop when you’re traveling between speeds of two and 19 mph if it system senses an impending collision.

The Smart City Brake Support System is icing on a cake that already included advanced front air bags, E911 automatic emergency notification, Antilock Brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Dynamic Stability Control, Traction Control, and Blind Spot Monitoring. The CX-5 earned a “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, as well as a “5-Star Overall” rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Add in a three-year/36,000-mile Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty with 24/7 Roadside Assistance, and a five-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty, and it’s easy to understand why the CX-5 is so popular.

The 2015 Mazda CX-5 is available for you to see and drive now. Schedule your test drive today.

Four Quick Fall Car Care Tips

Winter and summer generally call for the most attention to car maintenance given the harsh weather conditions both of those seasons experience. But as the leaves change and that nip comes to the air, it's important to take a look at some vital parts of your vehicle to ensure that they are in good health.

Fall can often mean rainy weather and even snow, so you'll want to be certain that the parts of your car that are designed to deal with that kind of weather are all in proper working in order. A little drizzle can turn into a big problem if your windshield wipers or tires are in bad shape.

1. Look at tires for signs of uneven wear or other damage

Your tires play a vital -- and generally thankless -- role in keeping you safe on the road. They are, after all, the only point of physical contact between your car and the pavement.

Uneven wear on tires can point to a couple of potential safety problems. It could mean that one or more of your tires is underinflated, which can negatively affect your car's handling and fuel economy. It can mean that your tires are out of alignment, which can cause stress on your suspension and result in an uncomfortable ride. It can also mean that the tire is out of balance or the wheel is bent, which can result in a bumpy ride due to the wobbly tire or wheel.

Any of these issues can cause compromise the safety and comfort of your car. If you notice uneven tire wear, check into the cause of it as soon as possible.

2. Listen to and feel your brakes

Pay attention when braking to be sure they are not making scraping or grinding noises, or that the brake pedal does not feel soft or spongy when depressed. Either of these issues can make braking difficult, which is obviously something you don't want.

A soft or spongy brake pedal can point to a couple of possible problems, the most common of which is that there is too much air in the brake lines. You can fix the problem yourself by bleeding the brakes, but it's probably best to have your local mechanic take care of it for you.

If you hear your brakes making scraping sounds, it can mean that there is some kind of foreign particle stuck in them or that the wear indicator is rubbing against the rotor. If you hear a grinding sound, that means the friction material on your brakes has worn off and the only thing stopping your car is the metal backing plate. This will make stopping the car very difficult and can damage critical parts of your brakes.

3. Check your light bulbs and lenses for clarity

Give your headlight, brake, fog and hi-beam bulbs and lenses a good check for clarity. It's starting to get dark much earlier, meaning your lights are going to be even more important than usual, since you'll be using them when there is heavier traffic flow.

4. Replace your windshield wipers if they are worn, cracked or streak when in use

When it comes to driving, there's not much that is more infuriating than windshield wipers that don't work properly. Having your vision obscured by ineffective wipers that just spread the rain all over your windshield isn't only annoying, it's also dangerous.

Replacing windshield wipers is quick, easy and cheap. Simply go to your local auto parts store, get the wipers that are the right size for your car (they'll generally have a reference book there for you to use) and follow the installation instructions.  Do this while it's still warm outside, because trying to pry off wipers with cold hands is torturous.

2015 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring

When Mazda unveiled the compact CX-5 crossover a few years ago here at Antelope Valley Ford Lincoln Mazda in Lancaster, California, the company proved that efficiency, utility, performance and high style could live together harmoniously and even be fun to drive.

The five-passenger 2015 Mazda CX-5 (MSRP starting at $21,545) offers Sport, Touring and Grand Touring trims. Drivers who want their CX-5 fully loaded will appreciate the Grand Touring (MSRP of $27,970). The virtues of the CX-5 have been recognized by the automotive press. U.S. News ranked the 2015 CX-5 fourth out of 22 “Affordable Compact SUVs,” ahead of competition that included the Ford Escape, GMC Terrain, Toyota RAV4, Chevrolet Equinox, Jeep Cherokee, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson and Volkswagen Tiguan. Edmunds.com reviewers said, "With its spacious, functional interior, impressive fuel economy and top safety scores, the 2015 Mazda CX-5 is a top pick among small crossovers. The fact that it's also fun to drive comes as a bonus."

In the CX-5 Grand Touring, the standard SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is replaced by a SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter four-cylinder with Variable Valve Timing that brings horsepower up to 184 (from 155), and torque up to 185 lb/ft (from 150). A SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift mode is also standard in the Grand Touring. This powertrain delivers impressive and class-leading fuel economy EPA-estimated at 25 mpg city, 32 mpg highway with front-wheel drive, and 24 mpg city, 30 mpg highway with the available Active Torque Split all-wheel drive system.

Outside the Grand Touring sets itself apart from the competition with its “KODO” (“soul of motion”) styling, and from the rest of the CX-5 family with larger 19-inch wheels, available High Intensity Discharge (HID) Bi-Xenon headlamps with auto-leveling and Adaptive Front Lighting System, halogen foglamps, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a power glass moonroof and heated side mirrors.

Inside, the Grand Touring adds dual-zone automatic climate control with a pollen filter, an eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, leather-covered seats, heated front seats, a masterful nine-speaker Bose Centerpoint audio system with AudioPilot technology and SiriusXM Satellite Radio to an already well-equipped cabin that features Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry with Push Button Start, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, and a rearview camera. A 5.8-inch full-color touch-screen display is standard, and available options include a Grand Touring Technology Package that adds a TomTom Navigation system, the Bi-Xenon HID headlamps, an auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink universal remote, and Smart City Brake Support, which can automatically bring the CX-5 to a complete stop when you’re traveling between speeds of two and 19 mph if it system senses an impending collision.

The Smart City Brake Support System is icing on a cake that already included advanced front air bags, E911 automatic emergency notification, Antilock Brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Dynamic Stability Control, Traction Control, and Blind Spot Monitoring. The CX-5 earned a “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, as well as a “5-Star Overall” rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Add in a three-year/36,000-mile Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty with 24/7 Roadside Assistance, and a five-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty, and it’s easy to understand why the CX-5 is so popular.