Five new Mazda models by 2016
New Mazda2 and MX-5 two of five models to be launched by Mazda in the next three years
The Mazda range will expand with five all-new models set to be launched between now and 2016.
Speaking to Auto Express at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Mazda Europe boss, Jeff Guyton, confirmed that “the new cars come in between now and 2016, and all will be built using Mazda’s lightweight, efficient Skyactiv principles.”
The new models back-up the success of the three Skyactiv Mazdas that have already appeared. Guyton says Mazda’s European sales are up 20 per cent on last year thanks to the new Mazda CX-5 – the firm’s top-seller in Europe – and the Mazda6. These will be joined by the new Mazda3 launched at the Frankfurt motor show that goes on sale here in January 2014.
Although Guyton refused to be drawn on what the new models may be, a new Mazda2 supermini is expected next year, and is likely to be powered by 1.3 and 1.5-litre Skyactiv engines.
Mazda has confirmed its tie-up with Alfa Romeo to co-develop the next MX-5. Guyton says “Both cars will use a very similar platform, but will have their own unique ‘top-hat’ [exterior and interior design] and powertrains, although Mazda will build both cars at its Hiroshima plant.”
Aside from the new supermini and MX-5, Mazda could replace both its slow-selling Mazda5 people carrier and discontinued CX-7 SUV with one, seven-seater crossover, while a smaller crossover, to rival the Nissan Juke et al, is also on Guyton’s wish list.
He also confirmed that Mazda’s rotary engine wasn’t dead. He said, “Skyactiv is all about ideal combustion. The rotary is still in the skunkworks testing phase, but we’re in the process of seeing how Skyactiv principles work on that type of engine.”
