2012 Mazda5 – Click above for high-res image gallery
We first saw the next-generation Mazda5 when it debuted in Geneva earlier this year, but now Mazda has confirmed that the version destined for the United States will be revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this month. Badged as a 2012 model, the U.S.-spec Mazda5 won't differ all that much from its European kin in terms of appearance. A good thing, since the mini-minivan benefits from a healthy does of Mazda's swoopy Nagare design language.
Unsurprisingly, the 2012 Mazda5 will be powered by the same 157-horsepower, 2.5-liter inline-four that we enjoy in the Mazda3 and Mazda6. Happily, Mazda will still be offering the 5 with a manual transmission in addition to the standard automatic, making it more attractive to those of us who prefer the engagement that row-it-yourself gearboxes have to offer. Multi-configurable seating for six is available inside with the usual list of standard and optional features.
In addition to the new 5, Mazda will be bringing its Shinari concept that we had the chance to check out a few months back. It previews the next generation of Mazda styling language and we're eager to get up close and personal with it once again at the LA show. Follow the jump for Mazda's official press release.
[Source: Mazda]
MAZDA TO UNVEIL ALL-NEW 2012 MAZDA5 AND MAZDA SHINARI CONCEPT AT 2010 LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW
IRVINE, Calif. – Mazda North American Operations will debut the all-new version of its popular, trend-setting, in-a-class-of-its-own, MAZDA5 multi-activity vehicle at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show. Since it launched in 2005, MAZDA5 redefined the definition of small family transport vehicles, by offering seating for six in three easily configurable rows, as well as styling and dynamics simply not found in any other vehicle in this segment. This type of insight and fun to drive engineering is found in all Mazdas, and is defined by the term "Zoom-Zoom."
Sharing the stand and the spotlight with MAZDA5, the company also will debut the SHINARI design concept, the first vehicle to feature Mazda's new global design language, KODO, or "Soul of Motion." Under the direction of Ikuo Maeda, the company's new global design director, SHINARI evokes lessons learned from the successful NAGARE ("flow") series of concepts and moves them to the a new level. As with all concepts, customers may never see a vehicle on the road that looks just like this, but the vehicle teaches the company's designers new ways to explore form and surface language.
The 2012 MAZDA5 incorporates motifs from Mazda's NAGARE design language which, inspired by the beauty of nature, presents an elegant look not found in any existing vehicle today. It's an appealing look that captures the eye upon first glance. Changes run deep under the skin, too, as the vehicle is now powered by a 157-hp 2.5-liter MZR I4 engine, and can be paired with either a manual or automatic transmission. Outstanding fuel economy and unexpected drivability are carried over from the previous model, as is the vehicle's unique, multi-configurable seating for six.
The SHINARI is a pure design concept model of a four-door, four-seater sports coupe which perfectly expresses the KODO design theme in a graceful and carefree form. The Japanese word "shinari" describes the powerful yet supple appearance of great resilient force when objects of high tensile strength, such as steel or bamboo, are twisted or bent. It also refers to the appearance of a person or animal as it flexibly transforms its body to generate a fast movement.
One glance at SHINARI stirs the emotions. Its form expresses the powerful movement of a lean body with highly developed muscles, supple but at the same time filled with tension. Mazda's desire is to reach car lovers' hearts and go beyond the notion of rational logic. This form purely embodies that desire.
Both vehicles will debut to the world's media at a press conference, scheduled to begin at 4:45 pm, Wednesday, November 17.
In addition to MAZDA5 and SHINARI, Mazda will showcase the entire lineup of 2011 vehicles, including a selection of unique customized models and racing cars.
Celebrating its 40th Anniversary in the United States in 2010, Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif. and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.
IRVINE, Calif. – Mazda North American Operations will debut the all-new version of its popular, trend-setting, in-a-class-of-its-own, MAZDA5 multi-activity vehicle at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show. Since it launched in 2005, MAZDA5 redefined the definition of small family transport vehicles, by offering seating for six in three easily configurable rows, as well as styling and dynamics simply not found in any other vehicle in this segment. This type of insight and fun to drive engineering is found in all Mazdas, and is defined by the term "Zoom-Zoom."
Sharing the stand and the spotlight with MAZDA5, the company also will debut the SHINARI design concept, the first vehicle to feature Mazda's new global design language, KODO, or "Soul of Motion." Under the direction of Ikuo Maeda, the company's new global design director, SHINARI evokes lessons learned from the successful NAGARE ("flow") series of concepts and moves them to the a new level. As with all concepts, customers may never see a vehicle on the road that looks just like this, but the vehicle teaches the company's designers new ways to explore form and surface language.
The 2012 MAZDA5 incorporates motifs from Mazda's NAGARE design language which, inspired by the beauty of nature, presents an elegant look not found in any existing vehicle today. It's an appealing look that captures the eye upon first glance. Changes run deep under the skin, too, as the vehicle is now powered by a 157-hp 2.5-liter MZR I4 engine, and can be paired with either a manual or automatic transmission. Outstanding fuel economy and unexpected drivability are carried over from the previous model, as is the vehicle's unique, multi-configurable seating for six.
The SHINARI is a pure design concept model of a four-door, four-seater sports coupe which perfectly expresses the KODO design theme in a graceful and carefree form. The Japanese word "shinari" describes the powerful yet supple appearance of great resilient force when objects of high tensile strength, such as steel or bamboo, are twisted or bent. It also refers to the appearance of a person or animal as it flexibly transforms its body to generate a fast movement.
One glance at SHINARI stirs the emotions. Its form expresses the powerful movement of a lean body with highly developed muscles, supple but at the same time filled with tension. Mazda's desire is to reach car lovers' hearts and go beyond the notion of rational logic. This form purely embodies that desire.
Both vehicles will debut to the world's media at a press conference, scheduled to begin at 4:45 pm, Wednesday, November 17.
In addition to MAZDA5 and SHINARI, Mazda will showcase the entire lineup of 2011 vehicles, including a selection of unique customized models and racing cars.
Celebrating its 40th Anniversary in the United States in 2010, Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif. and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.
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