Mazda Minagi Concept: 2011 Geneva Motor Show

Source: MotorAuthority.com

With its latest concept car, the all-new 2011 Mazda Minagi, Mazda is essentially giving us a preview of its replacement for the Tribute compact SUV. The aging Tribute is long overdue for an update and reports of a sharper and more dynamic compact crossover from Mazda date back to early 2007, so it’s not at all surprising to see the Minagi at this week’s 2011 Geneva Motor show.

We’ve known about the Minagi for some time now but today we have the first official images and details of the new concept.

The Minagi is the latest iteration of the Mazda’s ‘Kodo’ Soul of Motion design theme. We first saw Kodo on the stunning 2010 Shinari Concept and now we get to see it in crossover form. Its styling has clearly been derived from the Shinari, which we all know will influence the automaker’s future models. We got that confirmation from Mazda chief designer Ikuo Maeda last September, so we wouldn’t be surprised to see Mazda launch a new model, possibly labeled CX-5, resembling the new Mingai.

Mazda describes the vehicle as a “unique crossover SUV for urban explorers which fuses emotional design with outstanding performance”.

Additionally, the Minagi also combines Mazda's SKYACTIV technologies, which consists of the automaker’s next-generation powertrain, vehicle body and chassis designs. In the case of the new Minagi, the concept is equipped with a SKYACTIV engine and SKYACTIV transmission fitted to a SKYACTIV-Body and chassis that merge comprehensive weight reduction with ample safety features.

For our complete coverage of the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, click here.

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