New limited-slip differential improves MX-5’s renowned progressive, fun handling characteristics
Revised exterior and interior styling and color options give MX-5 a fresh look
Alexa integration allows drivers to remain focused on the road with hands-free commands
RICHMOND HILL, ON, Jan. 25, 2024 /CNW/ – Mazda Canada Inc. (MCI) today announces pricing for the updated 2024 Mazda MX-5, which continues its long-standing tradition as a pure expression of effortless, joyful driving. Well-balanced, lightweight, and an outstanding power-to-weight ratio all help make MX-5 a popular driver’s car. On sale this winter, MX-5 has been updated with a host of changes that all fans are sure to appreciate.
2024 Mazda MX-5: Pricing and Packaging (CNW Group/Mazda Canada Inc.)
2024 Mazda MX-5: Pricing and Packaging (CNW Group/Mazda Canada Inc.)
All MX-5 models have a front engine, rear-wheel drive layout, with a Skyactiv-G 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering an inspiring 181 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm routed through a six-speed transmission. The MX-5 GS model is exclusively paired with a six-speed manual transmission, and MX-5 GS-P and GT models are offered in either a manual transmission or a quick-shifting six-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
The 2024 MX-5 will continue to feature the well-received and appreciated Kinematic Posture Control (KPC), a software-based suspension performance technology development by Mazda that manages different vehicle systems to help provide MX-5 with improved precision and confidence in high-g cornering and behave as a harmonious extension of the driver’s body without adding a single gram of weight. While the rear suspension of the MX-5 already helps keep the vehicle planted when braking, KPC then applies a very slight brake to the inner rear wheel during high-g cornering. This pulls down on that corner, suppressing body roll, and making steering response feel more linear through tight or rough corners. Slightly stronger braking is used when accelerating through a corner, enhancing the limited slip effect.
Building on this already strong package, MX-5 receives major updates to the electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system for 2024 including a new steering rack, which features internal revisions resulting in reduced friction, as well as accompanying changes to the electric assist calibration through new software. This all results in smoother steering action with a more defined ‘on-center’ feeling for relaxed freeway cruising, yet greater precision as the front tires are loaded up under hard cornering.
MX-5’s exterior sees changes as well, with revised bumpers that offer a more streamlined look, updated headlights that incorporate a new LED DRL element, new LED taillights and new wheel designs. With the addition of Zircon Sand Metallic in 2023, another new exterior colour has been added to the roster for 2024 with Aero Grey Metallic, which offers a cool tone that contrasts nicely against MX-5’s available dark trim and wheels.
Inside, drivers benefit from a revised interior which gets several key updates. The centre console receives extra padding for improved driver comfort. All MX-5 models also benefit from a new, larger 8.8-inch infotainment display, which now adds touch functionality when using Apple CarPlayTM or Android AutoTM. Paired with this new display is Mazda’s first ever integration of Alexa, which adds further flexibility, with hands-free commands for things like HVAC, radio and more. Alexa is able to accept commands for things inside the vehicle, as well as connect to your smart home devices and control them remotely. In the 2024 MX-5, this higher level of flexibility minimizes driver distraction, allowing them to remain focused on the winding roads ahead. For added peace of mind in emergency situations, Private e-Call and Stolen Vehicle Assistance have also been added for assistance in emergency situations.
MX-5 GS
The MX-5 GS, only available with a black cloth soft top, includes an abundance of standard features, in addition to what has been outlined above. Safety is a primary focus of the two-seat roadster featuring dual front and side-impact airbags, and side-impact door beams in addition to many i-Activsense safety features that include Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Smart City Brake Support Front, Lane Departure Warning, Mazda Radar Cruise Control, and High Beam Control. The three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel has a tilt and telescoping function to help allow a wider range of owners find their ideal seating position. The steering wheel also has mounted buttons to easily control the audio, Bluetooth, and cruise control. Leather shift knob and parking brake, cloth bucket seats, six-speaker audio, dual USB Type C inputs, Mazda Advanced keyless entry, manual climate control, two removable cup holders, padded door armrest, and power windows with one-touch down feature complete the interior ambiance. Standard exterior features include metallic black 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, dual-tip exhaust, LED headlights and taillights, gloss black door mirrors and high mount brake light cover, daytime running lights, variable-intermittent windshield wipers, and rear glass window with defogger.
MX-5 GS-P
The MX-5 GS-P further enhances enthusiastic driver’s expectations in the roadster’s improved dynamics. This model is sport-tuned with Bilstein dampers, a front shock tower brace and a new Asymmetric LSD. This lightweight, compact, and highly durable conical clutch LSD has been tuned to offer a more progressive locking action as torque is applied thanks to a cam mechanism which allows for different ramp angles on acceleration and deceleration. These changes improve precision on initial turn in, and ability to put the power down effortlessly on corner exit, ultimately further enhancing driver confidence.
For those who want to safely experience the full capabilities of their MX-5 on a circuit, a new DSC-Track feature has been added to MX-5’s Dynamic Stability Control program. DSC-Track raises the threshold of the DSC system, between being fully engaged or fully disabled, allowing drivers to improve their own driving abilities, while still offering some amount of brake intervention should it be needed1.
Moving up from the GS model, the GS-P adds LED daytime running lights (DRL), noise-isolating windshield, heated exterior mirrors, and auto-dimming driver’s side exterior mirror. The headlights feature auto on/off function, auto-levelling, and the windshield wipers are rain-sensing. The seats have been revised for 2024, with the inclusion of black suede accents inset in the black cloth material and finished with grey stitching. Three-position seat heaters are included, along with frameless interior rearview mirror, and body-coloured interior door trim.
Including all standard GS features, this model adds a nine-speaker Bose® premium audio system that includes a subwoofer and headrest speakers for the driver and passenger seats to maintain the premium experience even with the top down.
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1DSC-Track should not be used on public roads and should only be used during sports driving on circuits. It is not a substitute for safe and attentive driving. Please see your Owner’s Manual for further details
MX-5 GS-P WITH SPORT PACKAGE (manual transmission only)
Driving aficionados alike will appreciate the additions found in the MX-5 GS-P with Sport Package. The package includes Brembo front brakes with red-painted front and rear calipers, dark gunmetal 17-inch BBS forged wheels, and heated Recaro sport seats.
The Sport Package is available on soft top MX-5 and MX-5 RF GS-P models. The RF – or retractable fastback – can open or close its roof in a notable 13 seconds by pushing a button, providing the MX-5 RF with the feel of both a sporty coupe and a stylish convertible.
MX-5 GT
The MX-5 GT carries all the valuable performance and dynamic features of the MX-5 GS-P and adds more comforts without compromising on being an authentic, lightweight MX-5. The MX-5 GT is available in a black soft top or body-color RF. Additional safety features for this model include an Adaptive Front-lighting System, and Traffic Sign Recognition.
The GT models trade the GS-P’s black alloy wheels and mirrors for newly designed 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels with machined spokes and dark painted pockets, body-coloured heated door mirrors with auto-dim driver’s door mirror, and door sill trim plates. All GT models feature wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, which allows occupants to easily connect their enabled phone once they enter the MX-5 and help them get on the road quicker. SiriusXM® satellite radio with a three-month trial subscription and SiriusXM Traffic Plus and Travel Link® services with a five-year subscription, and a trunk lid-mounted shark fin antenna are also included. Furthermore, the dark interior accents are exchanged for bright silver finishes while adding heated black leather seats, Mazda Navigation system, automatic climate control, and auto-dim rearview mirror with HomeLink® wireless control system.
MX-5 RF GT WITH GRAND SPORT PACKAGE (manual transmission only)
The MX-5 RF GT with Grand Sport Package adds the best of the GS-P Sport Package but replaces the track-friendly Recaro bucket seats for more road-trip ready Tan Nappa leather seats, which are a new upgradable option to the MX-5 RF GT’s standard black leather seats. Other updates include a contrasting black roof, and the dark interior accents are exchanged for bright silver finishes while adding heated leather seats, Mazda Navigation system, automatic climate control, auto-dim rearview mirror with HomeLink, and three-year SiriusXM Traffic & Travel Link subscription.
With comprehensive updates all around, the 2024 MX-5 is the most capable evolution of our iconic roadster yet. For more information on the Mazda MX-5, please visit Mazda.ca.
STARTING MSRP2 FOR THE 2024 MAZDA MX-5 IS AS FOLLOWS:
Model
Transmission
Soft Top
RF
MX-5 GS
6-Speed MT
$34,900
–
MX-5 GS-P
6-Speed MT
$38,900
$41,900
6-Speed AT
$38,900
$41,900
MX-5 GS-P w/ Sport Package
6-Speed MT
$43,300
$46,300
MX-5 GT
6-Speed MT
$42,000
$45,000
6-Speed AT
$42,000
$45,000
MX-5 RF GTw/ Grand Sport Package
6-Speed MT
–
$48,600
PREMIUM COLOUR OPTIONS:
Aero Grey Metallic
$300
Snowflake White Pearl
$300
Zircon Sand Metallic
$300
Machine Grey Metallic
$400
Soul Red Crystal Metallic
$500
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2 MSRP does not include $1,995 for freight & PDE, taxes, title or additional fees. Retailers set actual sale prices.
Mazda Canada Inc. is responsible for the sales and marketing, customer service and parts support of Mazda vehicles in Canada. Headquartered in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Mazda Canada has a nationwide network of 163 retail stores. For additional information visit Mazda Canada’s media website at www.media.mazda.ca.
The federal government is ordering the dissolution of TikTok’s Canadian business after a national security review of the Chinese company behind the social media platform, but stopped short of ordering people to stay off the app.
Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne announced the government’s “wind up” demand Wednesday, saying it is meant to address “risks” related to ByteDance Ltd.’s establishment of TikTok Technology Canada Inc.
“The decision was based on the information and evidence collected over the course of the review and on the advice of Canada’s security and intelligence community and other government partners,” he said in a statement.
The announcement added that the government is not blocking Canadians’ access to the TikTok application or their ability to create content.
However, it urged people to “adopt good cybersecurity practices and assess the possible risks of using social media platforms and applications, including how their information is likely to be protected, managed, used and shared by foreign actors, as well as to be aware of which country’s laws apply.”
Champagne’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment seeking details about what evidence led to the government’s dissolution demand, how long ByteDance has to comply and why the app is not being banned.
A TikTok spokesperson said in a statement that the shutdown of its Canadian offices will mean the loss of hundreds of well-paying local jobs.
“We will challenge this order in court,” the spokesperson said.
“The TikTok platform will remain available for creators to find an audience, explore new interests and for businesses to thrive.”
The federal Liberals ordered a national security review of TikTok in September 2023, but it was not public knowledge until The Canadian Press reported in March that it was investigating the company.
At the time, it said the review was based on the expansion of a business, which it said constituted the establishment of a new Canadian entity. It declined to provide any further details about what expansion it was reviewing.
A government database showed a notification of new business from TikTok in June 2023. It said Network Sense Ventures Ltd. in Toronto and Vancouver would engage in “marketing, advertising, and content/creator development activities in relation to the use of the TikTok app in Canada.”
Even before the review, ByteDance and TikTok were lightning rod for privacy and safety concerns because Chinese national security laws compel organizations in the country to assist with intelligence gathering.
Such concerns led the U.S. House of Representatives to pass a bill in March designed to ban TikTok unless its China-based owner sells its stake in the business.
Champagne’s office has maintained Canada’s review was not related to the U.S. bill, which has yet to pass.
Canada’s review was carried out through the Investment Canada Act, which allows the government to investigate any foreign investment with potential to might harm national security.
While cabinet can make investors sell parts of the business or shares, Champagne has said the act doesn’t allow him to disclose details of the review.
Wednesday’s dissolution order was made in accordance with the act.
The federal government banned TikTok from its mobile devices in February 2023 following the launch of an investigation into the company by federal and provincial privacy commissioners.
— With files from Anja Karadeglija in Ottawa
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 6, 2024.
LONDON (AP) — Most people have accumulated a pile of data — selfies, emails, videos and more — on their social media and digital accounts over their lifetimes. What happens to it when we die?
It’s wise to draft a will spelling out who inherits your physical assets after you’re gone, but don’t forget to take care of your digital estate too. Friends and family might treasure files and posts you’ve left behind, but they could get lost in digital purgatory after you pass away unless you take some simple steps.
Here’s how you can prepare your digital life for your survivors:
Apple
The iPhone maker lets you nominate a “ legacy contact ” who can access your Apple account’s data after you die. The company says it’s a secure way to give trusted people access to photos, files and messages. To set it up you’ll need an Apple device with a fairly recent operating system — iPhones and iPads need iOS or iPadOS 15.2 and MacBooks needs macOS Monterey 12.1.
For iPhones, go to settings, tap Sign-in & Security and then Legacy Contact. You can name one or more people, and they don’t need an Apple ID or device.
You’ll have to share an access key with your contact. It can be a digital version sent electronically, or you can print a copy or save it as a screenshot or PDF.
Take note that there are some types of files you won’t be able to pass on — including digital rights-protected music, movies and passwords stored in Apple’s password manager. Legacy contacts can only access a deceased user’s account for three years before Apple deletes the account.
Google
Google takes a different approach with its Inactive Account Manager, which allows you to share your data with someone if it notices that you’ve stopped using your account.
When setting it up, you need to decide how long Google should wait — from three to 18 months — before considering your account inactive. Once that time is up, Google can notify up to 10 people.
You can write a message informing them you’ve stopped using the account, and, optionally, include a link to download your data. You can choose what types of data they can access — including emails, photos, calendar entries and YouTube videos.
There’s also an option to automatically delete your account after three months of inactivity, so your contacts will have to download any data before that deadline.
Facebook and Instagram
Some social media platforms can preserve accounts for people who have died so that friends and family can honor their memories.
When users of Facebook or Instagram die, parent company Meta says it can memorialize the account if it gets a “valid request” from a friend or family member. Requests can be submitted through an online form.
The social media company strongly recommends Facebook users add a legacy contact to look after their memorial accounts. Legacy contacts can do things like respond to new friend requests and update pinned posts, but they can’t read private messages or remove or alter previous posts. You can only choose one person, who also has to have a Facebook account.
You can also ask Facebook or Instagram to delete a deceased user’s account if you’re a close family member or an executor. You’ll need to send in documents like a death certificate.
TikTok
The video-sharing platform says that if a user has died, people can submit a request to memorialize the account through the settings menu. Go to the Report a Problem section, then Account and profile, then Manage account, where you can report a deceased user.
Once an account has been memorialized, it will be labeled “Remembering.” No one will be able to log into the account, which prevents anyone from editing the profile or using the account to post new content or send messages.
X
It’s not possible to nominate a legacy contact on Elon Musk’s social media site. But family members or an authorized person can submit a request to deactivate a deceased user’s account.
Passwords
Besides the major online services, you’ll probably have dozens if not hundreds of other digital accounts that your survivors might need to access. You could just write all your login credentials down in a notebook and put it somewhere safe. But making a physical copy presents its own vulnerabilities. What if you lose track of it? What if someone finds it?
Instead, consider a password manager that has an emergency access feature. Password managers are digital vaults that you can use to store all your credentials. Some, like Keeper,Bitwarden and NordPass, allow users to nominate one or more trusted contacts who can access their keys in case of an emergency such as a death.
But there are a few catches: Those contacts also need to use the same password manager and you might have to pay for the service.
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Is there a tech challenge you need help figuring out? Write to us at onetechtip@ap.org with your questions.
LONDON (AP) — Britain’s competition watchdog said Thursday it’s opening a formal investigation into Google’s partnership with artificial intelligence startup Anthropic.
The Competition and Markets Authority said it has “sufficient information” to launch an initial probe after it sought input earlier this year on whether the deal would stifle competition.
The CMA has until Dec. 19 to decide whether to approve the deal or escalate its investigation.
“Google is committed to building the most open and innovative AI ecosystem in the world,” the company said. “Anthropic is free to use multiple cloud providers and does, and we don’t demand exclusive tech rights.”
San Francisco-based Anthropic was founded in 2021 by siblings Dario and Daniela Amodei, who previously worked at ChatGPT maker OpenAI. The company has focused on increasing the safety and reliability of AI models. Google reportedly agreed last year to make a multibillion-dollar investment in Anthropic, which has a popular chatbot named Claude.
Anthropic said it’s cooperating with the regulator and will provide “the complete picture about Google’s investment and our commercial collaboration.”
“We are an independent company and none of our strategic partnerships or investor relationships diminish the independence of our corporate governance or our freedom to partner with others,” it said in a statement.
The U.K. regulator has been scrutinizing a raft of AI deals as investment money floods into the industry to capitalize on the artificial intelligence boom. Last month it cleared Anthropic’s $4 billion deal with Amazon and it has also signed off on Microsoft’s deals with two other AI startups, Inflection and Mistral.
