Falken spec'd OE on CX-9, Pacifica

RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. (May 19, 2016) — Mazda Motor Co. Ltd. and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles L.L.C. have selected the Falken Ziex CT50 all-season performance tire as an OE fitment for the 2016 Mazda CX-9 mid-size sport-utility vehicle and 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, respectively, according to Sumitomo Rubber North America Inc.

SRNA did not say which CX-9 model or models will be equipped with the CT50 A/S, which it said features a symmetric tread pattern and fine-tuned tire construction for a smooth and quiet ride, exceptional fuel economy and all-season performance.

Mazda offers four trim versions of the CX-9, Mazda's three-row, seven-passenger SUV due in dealers' showrooms starting this summer. The Sport and Touring versions take size P255/60R18 while the Grand Touring and Signature versions are fitted with size P255/50R20.

The OE contract is Sumitomo's first with Mazda on one of the Japanese car maker's global car lines, according to Rick Brennan, SRNA vice president of marketing, who called the all-wheel-drive CX-9 a “great vehicle to showcase the ZIEX CT50's outstanding handling and drivability.”

Mazda has not disclosed other OE fitments besides the Ziex CT50.

SRNA's fitment on the eight-passenger Pacifica — FCA's revamped take on the minivan — is its first with FCA for the Falken brand.

The Pacifica — which reprises a Chrysler mid-size crossover nameplate from the mid-2000s with more traditional minivan styling and load-carrying capacity — went on sale in the U.S. in May. A hybrid model is due out in late 2016.

This is the fourth OE fitment announced on the Pacifica. Earlier Kumho Tire USA Inc., Bridgestone Americas and Yokohama Tire Corp. disclosed OE contracts on the Pacifica.