Mazda unveiled the Minagi at the Geneva Motor Show - it's a crossover concept car that shows off the firm's upcoming weight-saving technologies.
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What do I need to know about the Minagi?
The Mazda Minagi crossover concept was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show
Don’t get too excited – the Minagi is only a concept. It’s a five-door crossover (a cross between a 4x4, hatchback and MPV) about the same size as a Ford Kuga or Volkswagen Tiguan - and it points towards the forthcoming Mazda CX-5.
It’s been created to showcase Mazda’s new approach to keeping fuel consumption and emissions low, known as Skyactiv technologies.
This is a wide-reaching marketing term, covering petrol and diesel engines, as well as manual and automatic transmissions. Skyactiv also refers to lightweight body and chassis designs, something Mazda is already pretty good at.
When will we see Skyactiv?
The Minagi shows off Mazda's new Skyactiv weight-saving technology
Mazda says Skyactiv technology will be implemented in 2011 in some of its cars. To us that sounds like Mazda is planning a new engine and/or gearbox for the Mazda 2, Mazda 3 or Mazda 6. Beyond that there will be new models built from the ground up using Skyactiv tech.
When can I buy the Minagi?
Never, unfortunately. But there will almost certainly be a Mazda crossover of a similar size within the next couple of years. It’s an obvious hole in the range and one that most of its competitors have covered. It’s probably too early to speculate on prices, but if you really want a Mazda crossover then set aside £20,000.
Geneva Motor Show 2012 - all the latest news, pictures, videos and industry gossip from the 82nd edition of the International Motor Show.
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