The new Camry is a big hit with engineers at the company.
To determine if their products are ready for competition, car companies compare them with other models that are on sale. Mazda has, for instance, been benchmarking its cars with BMW to see if they are able to compete against other brands. The two automakers have different ideas about what a car should look like. The Japanese manufacturer has now switched to Toyota.
Here’s why. BMW enthusiasts are well aware that things have changed at the Bavarian marque. It is now putting driving pleasure above all else, even though it claims it is creating the “ultimate driving vehicle.” Modern BMWs are less enjoyable to drive because of the way engineers program engine response, steering feel, and exhaust noise.
Mazda wants to maintain its driving engagement, so we were surprised to learn that it now uses Toyota as a benchmark to develop its products. AutoGuide reports that Mazda is impressed with the design of the new Camry and is looking for ways to increase its driving engagement.
“If the Camry sold well before it was so boringly to drive, they now have a great handling car,” a Mazda engineer told the online publication. He spoke during an event for the new SkyActivX compression ignition engine at Mazda’s R&D facility, Irvine, California. We tested a prototype of the SkyActivX.
Mazda is currently working on the refresh Mazda6 family to be introduced for European markets at the Geneva Motor Show, March 1-3. Japanese automaker Mazda will also be displaying its innovative Spark Controlled Compression Ignition technology (SPCCI), which aims to become the first gas engine in the world with compression ignition. It should offer the same benefits as a diesel engine but with lower NOx emissions, higher rpm limits and more fuel economy.