By [1] Ronnie W Tanner

Since 2000, Mazda has become synonymous with the phrase Zoom-Zoom to describe what it calls the emotion of motion. After its initial use in a North American marketing campaign, the catchy phase has become a long lasting success around the globe. Zoom-Zoom reflects the automaker’s goal to deliver an invigorating spirit, quality craftsmanship, and fun-to-drive experience to its valued customers.

Mazda Performance in 2009

1. Revenue: Globally, the auto industry struggled during 2009. It was a tough year for Mazda. Sales revenue and profit levels suffered. Even though December 2009 indicated signs of recovery for the Japanese automaker, the annual figures showed losses from the prior year of 2008. Stock prices also fell as a result of revenue losses. Another contributing factor was the disintegration of a 30-year Ford-Mazda partnership, with fewer joint projects for product development.
2. Most Popular Model: Celebrating 20 years of success, the MX-5 (also known as Miata or Roadster), is the best selling sports car in the world. The two-seater boosts precise steering and handling, low base price, economical operation, and choice of a soft or hard top. New features include the power retractable hard top and heated seats with 5-temperature settings. Collision safety was also improved with an advanced impact system specifically designed for convertibles.
3. New Launch: A 5-door hatchback, a newer version of Mazda-3, was launched. The hatchback has similar characteristics to the 4-door sedan which include a dynamic design, with optimum environmental and safety performance.
4. Electric Vehicle Development: Mazda has postponed electric vehicle development until battery technology improves. The high cost of the project is a deterrent. In the meantime, the Japanese automaker will focus instead on other fuel saving methods.
5. Worst Selling Model: The RX-8, powered by a rotary engine, was the most expensive and slowest selling model.

Ronnie Tanner is a contributing writer at Mazda Engines. He writes about [2] Mazda engines, [3] Mazda transmissions and other industry specific topics.

Article Source: [4] Ronnie W. Tanner

[5] 2009 was a Tough Year for Mazda