Mazda just released the first teaser image of its next crossover: a sporty yet long-wheelbase SUV dubbed the KOERU.
Just a single sketch so far, but we have a finger on the pulse of Mazda’s next crossover move.
We predict this concept outlines a replacement for the seven-seat CX-9 SUV for the 2018 model year.
The CX-9 has been refreshed a few times over its lifetime, but the vehicle is near the end of a long platform and engine-sharing deal with former owners Ford Motor Company. In additon to hefty licensing fees paid to Ford to use the engine and various electronics, the CX-9 is the oldest model in the lineup and the one least-adhering to the new SkyActiv mantra.
But leaving the seven-seat crossover market would be the opposite direction to most automakers these days.
Thus, the KOERU: a preview at what a CX-5-based seven seater might look like. Much longer and wider than the CX-5, the KOERU will be a natural big brother to the CX-5 for big families and those demanding seven seats.
In production — or even non-sketch — form, the KOERU is likely to embrace the cab-backward and long hood appearance of the Mazda6, but will grow its roof height beyond the slinky X6-style tail previewed here.
Frankfurt auto show in September will include the full debut of this next-gen Mazda concept.
2015 Mazda KOERU Concept
- Mazda Koeru features a distinctly powerful rendition of the KODO design theme
- Japanese carmaker aims to further raise benchmark in competitive SUV segment
Hiroshima / Leverkusen, 7 August 2015. In a world premiere at the 66th 2015 Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA), Mazda will reveal the Mazda Koeru, a new crossover SUV concept that makes a bold statement in an increasingly popular and competitive segment.
Koeru, Japanese for “exceed” or “go beyond”, is a fitting name for Mazda’s latest venture into the growing crossover SUV market, where the company is again looking to surpass existing standards and raise the bar for performance, efficiency and overall value.
With its formidable KODO – Soul of Motion design, the Koeru expresses the power and vitality of a predator along with a unique level of refined dignity. The full line-up of Mazda’s latest SKYACTIV Technology, meanwhile, ensures outstanding dynamic performance, fuel economy and safety with no compromise to Mazda’s patented driving fun.
The carmaker will also display its new-generation model line-up in Frankfurt. Highlights include an all-new Mazda MX-5 complete with accessories as well as several SKYACTIV powertrains. Mazda’s press conference takes place at 13:45 (hall 9.0, B16) on 15 September, the first of two press days. The IAA is open to the public from 17-27 September.
Mazda’s main exhibits at the 2015 IAA
| Reference exhibit | Mazda Koeru (world premiere) |
| Vehicles currently on sale |
Mazda MX-5, Mazda CX-3, 2015 Mazda CX-5, 2015 Mazda6, Mazda2 & Mazda3 |
| Technology exhibits | SKYACTIV-G 2.5, SKYACTIV-D 2.2 & SKYACTIV-D 1.5 |
Tom Burkart is the founder and managing editor of Car-Revs-Daily.com, an innovative and rapidly-expanding automotive news magazine.
He holds a Journalism JBA degree from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Tom currently resides in Charleston, South Carolina with his two amazing dogs, Drake and Tank.
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