NYIAS 2011: Mazda Minagi Concept

Only a few days after some rumors began spreading the word about the origins of the future Mazda CX-5, the Japanese automaker unveiled in North America the Minagi concept, the model on which the future CX-5 is expected to be based on.

Presented for the first time last month in Geneva, the Minagi concept previews a production version model that will be the embodiment of the Japanese new KODO design theme, one that Mazda promises to become “the forerunner to the launch of Mazda’s upcoming next-generation products” and “symbolize the evolution of the Mazda brand for a new era,” as the car maker said when it first presented the model.

"I wanted to convey something different from the Mazda SHINARI. I felt a compact crossover SUV was the perfect vehicle to express agility and focused movement; the flexibility of four limbs moving in unison, and an upright posture," said Masashi Nakayama, Minagi chief designer.

The new era for Mazda will extend far beyond the exterior aspect of the car. On the inside, and underneath, the car maker fitted an array of technologies that are meant to dazzle the competition: SKYACTIV engine and transmission.

Mazda did not make any mentions of the features that it will take from the Minagi and transplant into the CX-5. The production of the new model, which will kick off sometime next year, will however come just in time to fill the gap between the CX-7 and Mazda CX-9, by adding a compact crossover to the range.