Mazda 3 2010 on 2040-cars

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Mazda's Apple CarPlay and Android Auto retrofit costs $199 plus labor

In relation to the rest of the market, Mazda was a bit behind with introducing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to its model range, but it's trying to make up ground. But now, vehicles equipped with Mazda Connect from the 2014 model year and newer are eligible for a dealer-installed upgrade with smartphone integration capabilities. But it's not a free update. Mazda first introduced Carplay and Android Auto capabilities on the 2018 Mazda 6 and further extended the technology to the 2019 CX-9 and CX-5 utility vehicles. Now the company wants to make the smartphone interfaces available across the lineup. For $199, plus labor costs, owners can buy the upgrade. In addition to the updated Mazda Connect software, Mazda will also update hardware, including more powerful and faster-charging 2.1-amp USB ports. It is important to remember that Mazda's infotainment touchscreens do not function while driving, so even with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, functionality will run through the command knob, buttons, or voice commands. For those interested in the upgrade, it is recommended to schedule an appointment for the upfitting. The service will take approximately two hours.UPDATE: A previous version of this story mistakenly said that Mazda's infotainment systems are not touchscreens. This is incorrect. The story has been updated accordingly.Related Video: This content is hosted by a third party. To view it, please update your privacy preferences. Manage Settings. 2018 Mazda6 Turbo first drive

Mazda and Fiat finalize deal for Alfa roadster, next-gen MX-5 Miata

Although a little bit later than expected, Mazda and Fiat have signed a final agreement that will bring a next-generation MX-5 Miata to the Japanese automaker and a new roadster to Alfa Romeo. When the proposed arrangement was announced back in May, the two automakers had hoped to seal the deal last year, but it doesn't appear that the production timeline for these cars has slipped any, with both expected to start rolling off assembly lines in 2015.
Other than a shared chassis with a rear-wheel-drive layout, it sounds like the two cars are still planned to be distinct in their own ways from their styling right down to their engines. Mazda will produce both cars at a plant in Hiroshima, Japan, but it isn't clear what role each automaker will play in the cars' developmental process. The big question, of course, is what clever portmanteau name we can come up with, like Toyobaru. Mazda Romeo is the easy choice, but Alfazda might roll off the tongue a little better.
Scroll down for a brief press release from both automakers.

Mazda books first yearly profit in half-decade, NA still a drag

Automotive News reports Mazda has posted its first annual profit in five years. The company made $364.3 million in the last fiscal year, following a $1.14 billion loss the year prior. Operating profit also jumped up by $91.3 million to $572.8 million, thanks in part to a revenue increase of 8 percent to $23.42 billion.
But the news isn't all rays of sunshine. North America continues to be a problem for Mazda where the automaker posted yet another loss. The manufacturer lost $519.1 million last year, up from $427.8 million the year prior. While the launch of the CX-5 helped see US sales increase by 2 percent to 273,000 vehicles, the region as a whole bought up 372,000 units. Mazda had predicted closer to 380,000 units.
Even so, Mazda says it should have North America back in the black by next year, with the company forecasting a sales increase of 11 percent to 415,000 units in the region. That's thanks in part to a boost from the redesigned Mazda6 sedan.