Mazda previews next-gen designs at Tokyo show

PROVIDING an insight into future Mazda design and drivetrain tech were the striking Vision X-Coupe and Vision X-Compact concept vehicles on the Hiroshima-based manufacturer’s Japan Mobility Show stand in Tokyo.

In both cases, the letter X is pronounced as “cross”, with the former a sleek crossover coupe that Mazda says “embodies the further evolution of ‘Kodo-Soul of Motion’ design language”, while the latter may provide hints as to what a new-generation Mazda 2 light hatchback might look like.

Exciting many rotary engine aficionados around the world is news that the X-Coupe is powered by a plug-in hybrid system integrating a turbocharged two-rotor engine with an electric motor and battery.

The set-up is said to produce 375kW with a driving range of 160km in electric-only mode and up to 800km of range when operating in combination with the rotary engine.

Even more interesting is the fact that the ‘engine’ combines carbon-neutral fuel derived from microalgae with Mazda’s proprietary carbon dioxide capture technology.

Referred to as Mazda Mobile Carbon Capture, the system is said to help the vehicle contribute to reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide the more it is driven.

The smaller Vision X-Compact is “designed to deepen the bond between people and cars through the fusion of a human sensory digital model and empathetic AI”.

Mazda describes the cute hatchback “acting like a close companion” and says the concept “is capable of engaging in natural conversation and suggesting destinations, helping expand the driver’s world”.

It represents Mazda’s vision for the future of smart mobility, where vehicles and people form an emotional connection ”much like a friend”, says Mazda.

Additional to the pair of concept vehicles, Mazda showed the new generation CX-5 in European spec for the first time, the model featuring a spacious interior, refined design, and, according to the car-maker, enhanced Jinba-ittai (oneness between driver and car) dynamics.

Mazda says the new model represents the evolution of a vehicle that has sold over 4.5 million units across more than 100 countries and regions.

It is designed with the new electronic platform Mazda E/E architecture+ to offer an “evolved driving experience,” says the company.

During the brand’s show-opening presentation, Mazda Masahiro Moro, representative director, president and CEO of Mazda, said: “The phrase, ‘The joy of driving fuels a sustainable tomorrow,’ expresses not only Mazda’s fundamental spirit, but also the core of its future challenges.”

“Under the shared global mission of achieving carbon neutrality, Mazda believes that the joy of driving can be a force for positive change for society and the planet. We remain committed to fulfilling the desire of those who love cars and wish to continue driving forever,” he concluded.