2013 MAZDA CX-5 RECEIVES J.D. POWER APEAL AWARD

IRVINE, Calif., July 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The J.D. Power APEAL Study ranked the 2013 Mazda CX-5 as the highest ranking vehicle in the Compact CUV segment. According to the J.D. Power 2013 U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study^SM the most appealing vehicles tend to remain on dealer lots for shorter periods, command higher transaction prices and are more likely to create owner loyalty when they are ultimately traded in.

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The CX-5 is Mazda's first vehicle to fully incorporate SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY as well as the KODO "Soul of Motion" design language.  Offering best-in-class combined fuel economy, including the highest highway miles per gallon (MPG) of any SUV sold in North America – hybrid or not – at 35 MPG, the 2013 CX-5 also boasts Zoom-Zoom-inspired driving dynamics and superior safety.

"We are honored by this recognition from J.D. Power and Associates in the APEAL Study," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO). "The CX-5 is a consistent success in many respects with its outstanding handling, safety and fuel economy but also with its overall value to all consumers by being a vehicle that doesn't compromise, doesn't offer excuses, but instead exceeds expectations."

The APEAL Study examines how gratifying a new vehicle is to own and drive, based on owner evaluations of 77 vehicle attributes. The study is used extensively by manufacturers worldwide to help them design and develop more appealing vehicles and by consumers to help them in their purchase decisions. The 2013 APEAL Study is based on responses gathered between February and May 2013 from more than 83,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2013 model-year cars and light trucks who were surveyed after the first 90 days of ownership. The APEAL Study complements the Initial Quality Study (IQS), which focuses on problems experienced by owners during the first 90 days of ownership.

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States and Mexico through nearly 700 dealers.  Operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.  For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at www.mazdausamedia.com. 

SOURCE Mazda North American Operations