Mazda has started taking pre-orders for the car, at least in Japan, where it's called the Mazdaspeed Atenza.

Mazda Motor Corporation began taking orders today for the Mazdaspeed Atenza at Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealers throughout Japan. The sales launch is set for late August 2005.

Mazdaspeed Atenza comes equipped with technology independently developed by Mazda: a newly developed 2.3L direction injection gasoline turbo engine (designated the MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo*) and an electronic Active Torque Split Control All-Wheel-Drive system. It delivers a higher balance between comfort, economy and high performance that we need in everyday life.

Mazdaspeed Atenza also meets "Green Tax" standards, Japan's tax reduction regulations for eco-friendly vehicles. Certified as a Super Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (SU-LEV) that complies with Japan's 2005 emissions reduction standard of 75 percent, when purchasing an Mazdaspeed Atenza the owner can receive a reduction in the vehicle excise tax because it is also certified as exceeding the 2010 fuel economy standard by five percent.

* DISI: Direct Injection Spark Ignition

Mazdaspeed Atenza Pre-Order Overview

Order booking period: June 23 (Thu.)∼August 21 (Sun.), 2005

Dates of sales: Late August (planned)

Special features: A leather carrying case for the mandatory vehicle inspection certificate is included as a gift.
(The abovementioned is only available to customers who place orders during the booking period.)
* Please note that during the booking period the option of black & white leather seats are also available.

Ordering locations: Mazda and Mazda Efini dealers throughout Japan.

Mazdaspeed Atenza's main factory installed options

· BOSE sound system and music HDD
· Advanced keyless entry and starter system
· Leather seats (black) and driver's seat 8-way power seat and driver's seat memory
· Glass sunroof with tilt function

http://www.japanesecarfans.com/news....id/2050623.003