Mazda readying another SUV

05th October 2006

The model will sit below the soon-to-be-launched CX-7 as a rival to Nissan's Qashqai, which was unveiled in Paris.

Speaking at the French expo, Masahiro Moro, vice-president of marketing for Mazda Europe, said: "We are very interested in this segment, as all the data shows that it will grow in the future. We would not have a pure SUV, but a crossover vehicle would fit nicely with Mazda's brand DNA."

When pushed on when exactly the vehicle might arrive at dealerships, Moro added cryptically: "Sooner rather than later is better. You will see." Meanwhile, bosses have not ruled out bringing the larger CX-9 - a full-sized seven-seater SUV - to Europe. If the car is a hit in America, where it is due for launch early next year, it could cross the Atlantic. And the Japanese firm has also hinted that it could expand its sporty MPS brand in the future. Currently, only the 3 family hatchback plus 6 saloon and estate get the performance upgrade. But Moro explained: "There's no concrete plan yet. Maybe the RX-8 or MX-5, or even the 5 could be added."