Mazda 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. More information and photos will be available then.