Frankfurt 2011: Mazda Debuts Kodo Design Language, SkyActiv Technology

[AF News Desk]

Not long after announcing the end of its RX-8, Mazda has unveiled their new Kodo design, which will showcase their SkyActiv technology.

First up? The CX-5, a compact crossover, unveiled Monday.

The story from AutoNews:

Originally Posted by By Andrew Stoy – Automotive News, 9/13/11

Mazda claims class-leading rear legroom for the new CX-5,
along with a unique 40-20-40 split rear seat.
Picture/Cutline via AutoNews

FRANKFURT – Marking the first production use of the automaker's Kodo design language, the 2013 Mazda CX-5 compact crossover made its official debut at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show on Monday.

The five-passenger SUV will also get a full range of the company's SkyActiv powertrains, encompassing both gasoline and diesel engines and six-speed automatic and manual transmissions.

Kodo, which means "soul of motion," was most recently displayed by Mazda on its Minagi concept car at the Geneva auto show. Translated to a production vehicle, it gives the CX-5 unique flowing lines while toning down the company's Nagare design language most visible on the current Mazda 5. Kodo also extends to the interior, with its horizontally stretched cockpit lines and satin metallic finish on key hardware. A 5.8-inch color touch screen will also occupy the top of the center stack for infotainment-system control and display.

In the rear, Mazda claims class-leading rear legroom for the new CX-5, along with a unique 40-20-40 split rear seat. The center section can fold flat, essentially creating two bucket seats with room to slide long cargo through to maximize space.

Of more interest to enthusiasts is the first application of SkyActiv technology in a Mazda vehicle. SkyActiv consists of a variety of weight-saving, chassis and powertrain measures designed to enhance the driver's sense of being connected to the vehicle. In the U.S., it will emerge in the SkyActiv-G engine, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with direct injection, a 13.0:1 compression ratio, variable valve timing and new exhaust design.

Mazda claims the SkyActiv-G is 10 percent lighter, 15 percent more fuel-efficient and produces 15 percent fewer CO2 emissions than its predecessor. Full U.S. specifications are expected with the CX-5 North American launch at the Los Angeles auto show.

A SkyActiv-D diesel will also be offered on the Mazda CX-5 beginning in the 2014 model year.

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Not only are we excited to see what the new designs look like, but we’re very excited to see what the SkyActiv technology is all about.

One of the traits many of us value in our cars is the way we feel connected to it and how that connection manifests itself in the way we drive our cars.

Based on what SkyActiv represents, we’re hoping to see a driving experience that is to be rivaled and envied by competitors.

What’s you’re take? Are you more interested in the new designs or the SkyActiv debut?