Mazda will soon introduce an aggressive, sporty compact crossover. And, while its aggressive lines with convey a macho attitude, Mazda says it will be powered by an ultra fuel-efficient powertrain.
At the New York Auto Show, Mazda is showing the Minagi, a concept vehicle that is expected to be the inspiration for the upcoming CX-5. It features the automaker’s new “KODO” design language, which gives the Minagi an athletic look.
“I felt a compact SUV was the perfect vehicle to express agility and focused movement; the flexibility of four limbs moving in unison, and in an upright posture,” said Masashi Nakayama, Chief Designer of the concept.
But styling isn’t the only notable feature of the Minagi concept and the production crossover it will inspire. Mazda is using this concept to highlight its new SKYACTIV powertrain technology. SKYACTIV is Mazda’s attempt to produce more miles per gallon out of convention gasoline and diesel engines, without resorting to costly hybrid technology. Mazda says the new SKYACTIV gasonline engine is more efficient, with a 15% increase in torque and 15% reduction in fuel consumption compared to the current 2.0-liter gas engine.
Lastly, the SKYACTIV strategy will also lead to lighter-weight vehicles and engines that produce less friction. Both of these changes will also help the automaker build a new crossover that’s sporty but sips fuel.