New crossover compact vehicle announced by Mazda

4/21/2011

Mazda has announced that its newest compact SUV will be be the CX-5.

The crossover model is expected to be unveiled in Frankfurt, Germany, during the 2011 IAA Motor Show held in September.

According to a statement released by Mazda, the CX-5 will be the first model to use the automaker's brand-new design template called "KODO - Soul of Motion." This was originally displayed at the Geneva Motor Show back in February on the Mazda SHINARI concept car but will be showcased again Friday April 22, at the 2011 New York Auto Show.

In addition, the car will feature SKYACTIV technologies that will enhance the vehicle's engine performance, transmission functions and body/chassis shape.

Other crossover models expected to début soon include the CX-7 and the CX-9, which will be larger than the compact CX-5.

Mazda has existed since 1920, but didn't officially use its current name until 1984. According to Takashi Tamanouchim, the president of Mazda, the company offers a "'Zoom-Zoom' feeling" that produces "cars that are fun to drive."

The company has been focused on eco-friendly production since 2007 when it unveiled its "Sustainable Zoom-Zoom" strategy.