Mazda is phasing out its Mazda6 saloon executive model and has high hopes for its new CX-60 SUV, says John Perry, Managing Director at Mazda Ireland

HOW IS YOUR SUPPLY LINE OF NEW VEHICLES?

The current global supply chain issue is quite challenging and Mazda is no exception. We work very closely with the factory and our dealers to ensure we can fulfil our customers’ orders. Our supply of vehicles for 231 peak sales period is strong and we will continue to monitor and work with the factory throughout 2023.

HOW IS MAZDA POSITIONED IN THE HYBRID AND ELECTRIC VEHICLE SEGMENTS?

Mazda has stood by the multi-solution strategy to provide the right technology to the right customer, which means that depending on customer needs and where you are in the world, a BEV or PHEV may be the most sustainable choice, while somewhere else petrol or diesel may be the better option.

So our line-up is quite mixed. We have been electrifying our products since 2019 with mild hybrid products, and this year we introduced a self-charging hybrid and a PHEV. Last year we introduced the Mazda MX-30 which is our first BEV, and in early 2023 we will see the arrival of another PHEV. The multi-solution strategy will see our line up become more electrified over the coming years as we take a graceful transition to full electric.

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WHAT WAS MAZDA’S MOST POPULAR MODEL IN 2022?

The Mazda CX-30 has only recently taken the top spot as our most popular model. The larger CX-5 held this position for almost 10 years but the CX-30 is loaded with new generation technology, including Mild Hybrid and Skyactiv-X innovations. It drives beautifully and the fact that it was awarded the highest ever score for adult occupant safety when NCAP tested means that it is popular with families.

WHICH EXECUTIVE MODEL DO YOU RECOMMEND?

This has traditionally been the Mazda6, our executive saloon. However, with the decline in this segment we have taken the decision to stop selling this model in the Irish market. We have just launched our all-new Mazda CX-60, which is a new position for the brand in the executive segment.

The CX-60 is the most premium model within the line-up to date. This large SUV looks amazing and is such a nice place to be on either a long or short drive. Some of the technology such as the driver personalisation system hasn’t been seen in a vehicle before, and the PHEV powertrain makes it the most powerful vehicle we have ever launched.

WHAT NEW MODELS ARE ON THE WAY FROM MAZDA IN 2023?

The new PHEV will be quite a unique offering. Not only will this be a plug-in hybrid, but it will also come with a rotary powered range extender which will charge the battery when needed to a distance of almost 700km. What’s even better is that the wheels will always be driven by the electric motor, so that it won’t switch between the engine and motor like in conventional PHEVs.

Later in the year, we will also see the launch of the three-row CX-80. This will take the position as the new flagship model for the brand and will also come as a PHEV along with Skyactiv-X petrol and a new super-efficient diesel engine.

WHAT IS YOUR EXPECTATION FOR CAR BUYER SENTIMENT IN 2023?

In spite of the current global challenges I believe the car purchasing sentiment will be strong. With the supply issues over the past year, this should create demand in 2023. This is evidenced in our strong pre-sales position versus 2022.

Photos: CONOR McCABE