August 1, 2005


Mazda Adds Four Wheel Drive Premacy
- Active torque control coupling 4WD system attains better performance and stability on icy roads -

HIROSHIMA, Japan--Mazda Motor Corporation has added a four-wheel drive (4WD) version of its popular Premacy compact minivan to its model lineup in Japan. Sales of the new 4WD Premacy commence on August 1, 2005 at Mazda, Mazda Anfini and Mazda Autozam dealers throughout Japan.



The Premacy, known as the Mazda5 in overseas markets, has adopted a new Active Torque Control Coupling (ATTC) 4WD system, based on the Atenza sedan’s ATTC. Premacy’s new 4WD system controls torque distribution between front and rear wheels to suit driving conditions, and delivers optimal handling and stability on wet roads or snow covered surfaces. Drivers can switch between two-wheel drive (2WD) and 4WD mode at the flick of a switch as road conditions change.

The addition of a new 4WD model marks a new milestone for the sought-after minivan. Premacy has been lauded as the first minivan that delivers the dynamic driving performance embodying Mazda’s Zoom-Zoom heritage with the versatility of the “6+One” packaging concept. The 4WD model has superb active safety performance as a special feature, adding greater depth to the Premacy model lineup. The 4WD version is available for all Premacy models equipped with 2.0-liter MZR engine. This includes special needs vehicles such as the model equipped with a retractable-lift passenger seat, designed for people with physical challenges.
Features of Premacy 4WD
[4WD system]
Active Torque Control Coupling (ATCC) 4WD system
1) This system optimizes the torque distribution between the front and rear wheels through the active torque control coupling in the rear differential that controls the transfer of torque to the front and rear wheels depending on wheel speed and throttle position.
2) The 4WD model is equipped with a 2WD/4WD change switch feature that can be operated at the flick of switch. This enables drivers to switch between 2WD and 4WD drive modes easily, allowing selection of 4WD mode at will when driving on wet or icy roads.

[Equipment exclusive to 4WD models (as standard equipment for all 4WD models)]
- Windshield wiper de-icer, heated door mirrors

 

A friend of mine is looking for a new car now. He needs 5+ seating, so Mazda5 is a possibility, but he lives on a hilly street and gets stuck in his FWD car in the snow all the time. He is only considering cars with AWD.

Why won't Mazda bring more AWD to the United States?

 

Because their AWD is fairly weak by international standards. Its not just Mazda, other companies like Suzuki and Daihatsu don't promote all their cars overseas.