Looks like Mazda is back to the simple alternator and water
pump drive only this time using a poly V belt.
Unlike the 93 and up RX7 the water pump now rotates in the
same direction as the engine. No more serpentine belts
with flat pulleys.

Since the power steering is now electric and not hydraulic
the hydraulic pump has been eliminated and that should save
a bit of HP not to mention simplifying the accessory drive
system and eliminating a bit of cost and weight.

The AC compressor is also driven by a separate poly V drive belt.
If you lose the AC compressor the engine does not stop as would
happen with a serpentine belt drive.

BTW this engine compartment design and the whole car for that
matter have 3D CAD written all over it. No way could you
cram all this stuff in this tiny engine compartment with out
3D CAD.

Paul Lamar
 
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