Mazda Premacy (Mazda 5) with Four Wheel Drive
 

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Active torque control coupling 4WD system

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

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.

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.


Source:http://www.worldcarfans.com/news.cfm...1/mazda/1.html

i smell the underpinnings of the MS6 and possible a hot little MS3 swap.

hmm, yep smells like a minivan

How about just adding this AWD system to the Mazda3 range as an option?

it could easily be done but would anyone wanna pay another $4K for an AWD 160bhp Mazda3 when they could have a 227hp awd wrx for the same price or less?

I would rather had the Mazda3 with AWD then a REX. The Mazda3 has alot more options then the rex.

yeah but slower and more expensive than established competitors who invented this segment here doesn't sell cars.

Yea thats true.