CONFIRMED:
B-SERIES: The high-end Cab Plus SE model has been discontinued; other than that, Mazda's compact pickup is unchanged.
CX-7: The stereo now has an auxiliary input jack and MP3 capability. Sport and Grand Touring models get additional standard equipment, and Bluetooth phone compatibility and SIRUIS satellite radio have been added to a couple of the CX-7's option packages.
CX-9: Mazda's big CUV gets a standard trip computer and a trailer towing package for all-wheel-drive models. Sport and Grand Touring models get additional equipment, as do a couple of the CX-9's option packages.
MAZDA3: Antilock brakes and side airbags are now standard on the least-expensive (3i Sport) model, and four-doors with remote keyless entry now have a trunk release button on the key fob. A revised version the Mazda3 is in the works; it will debut in 2009 as a 2010 model. The 2010 Mazda3 will be slightly larger and may get a 2.5 liter engine in place of the current top-of-the-line 2.3 liter unit.
MAZDA5: No significant changes.
MAZDA6: (photo) A new Mazda6 has been launched for 2009. Unlike the previous Six -- which was shared with Europe -- the new Mazda6 is unique to the North American market, and comes exclusively as a sedan. The new car is significantly larger than the old Six; engine choices are a 2.5 liter 4-cylinder and a 3.7 liter V6. New features include available keyless ignition and standard electronic stability control system.
MX-5 MIATA: 2009 Miatas will not arrive in dealerships until spring; see the RUMORED section below.
RX-8: (photo) Mazda's rotary-engine four-door sports coupe gets updated styling and a modified suspension. The new R3 Sport model gets a further improved suspension, unique body kit, 19" wheels with high-performance tires, keyless entry and ignition, 300 watt Bose stereo with surround sound and noise-compensating technology, and Recaro sport seats.
TRIBUTE: The Tribute gets similar updates to the Ford Escape on which it is based: New 171 horsepower 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine in place of last-year's 2.3; improved 3-liter V6 engine; new 6-speed automatic transmission; and Ford's EasyFuel capless fuel-filler system. The front seats have been redesigned, automatic headlights are now standard, steering wheel audio controls are included on Touring, Grand Touring and Hybrid models, and the Grand Touring and Hybrid get standard Sirius satellite radio. The Tribute Hybrid gets its own version of the 2.5 liter engine, along with standard electronic stability control and other enhancements.
RUMORED:
MX-5 MIATA: Mazda won't announce changes to the 2009 Miata until the first quarter of 2009; the rumor mill says the Miata will get updated styling, improvements to the engine and suspension, and additional standard and optional equipment.
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