2015 Frankfurt – IAA: The Mazda Koeru Concept shows up at Frankfurt to possibly pitch a new CX-7

Mazda surprised the crowd at the Frankfurt Motor Show to introduce the new Koeru Concept, a crossover pitch at what could be a new CX-7–and it’s quite the looker.

The small Japanese automaker has been making do without a proper midsize crossover after the first and last CX-7 was retired. As a result, Mazda’s crossover lineup only consists of the CX-5, the new CX-3, and soon to be, the new CX-9.

Ever since, rumors have been floating about regarding a possible new CX-7, especially when you consider that it’s a very crucial portion of the crossover market that no automaker can afford to be left out of, especially with such a comprehensive crossover lineup such as Mazda’s. And given their success with crossovers, especially the recent offerings, we’re very much looking forward to a new CX-7.

Don’t ask us how to pronounce its name, but Mazda describes “Koeru” as meaning, “going beyond” in Japanese, and visually, that’s very apparent, without seemingly being out of practical touch for production. It’s a very aggressive design, but one that looks sporty, well-proportioned, and above all, handsome.

Of course, being a possible future Mazda, this latest Koeru Concept boasts Mazda’s latest SKYACTIV tech, Mazda’s new i-Activesense, and more Mazda Connect technologies, all of which include the latest suite of active and passive safety systems, and the latest connectivity gadgetry for the hottest smartphones and what not on the market.

Altogether, we really hope this is a precursor of things to come in terms of either the CX-9 or rumored CX-7.

Check out the press release below for full details.

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2015 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show Logos

Frankfurt Motor Show 2015 – Press Kit
World Premiere – Mazda KOERU Concept

MAZDA KOERU

The all-new crossover concept proposed by Mazda

Mazda Motor Corporation is unveiling the all-new crossover concept Mazda KOERU for the world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show this year.

The Mazda KOERU demonstrates Mazda’s unique and daring interpretation of a crossover vehicle, proposed for the fast-growing crossover market. Featuring the full suite of Mazda’s new-generation SKYACTIV technologies and designed under the KODO—Soul of Motion design language, the concept offers sporty yet delightfully refined styling and driving performance.

The name “KOERU”, which literally means “exceed” or “go beyond” in Japanese, comes from Mazda’s aspiration to deliver value that goes well beyond the existing category norms and standards. As the latest incarnation of Mazda’s new-generation products, the Mazda KOERU crossover concept offers styling that exudes power, vitality and a new level of polished refinement. Targeted at customers with a cutting-edge mind-set, the Mazda KOERU is a bold challenge to the existing crossover market and embodies Mazda’s on-going quest to deliver pure driving pleasure.

Evolution of KODO design through the expression of “vitality” and “dignity”

One look at the Mazda KOERU reveals the qualities of KODO design – the power and vitality of a wild animal. Focusing on the expression of refined dignity, Mazda has imparted the KOERU with awe-inspiring proportions and an intriguing form that hints of a Japanese aesthetic. The outcome is an evolution of the KODO design theme adapted to the crossover vehicle.

Given a stronger presence than ever before, the Signature Wing is expressive of unwavering determination, whilst the LED guiding rings evoke the bright, strong-willed eyes of an untamed animal. A tight canopy and a modulating body generate a sense of speed and volume, creating a unique presence that sets the Mazda KOERU apart from existing crossover offerings. Highlights on the front and rear fenders extend towards the large wheels, suggesting powerful legs pounding the earth.

Jinba-ittai driving performance and refined ride comfort

Throughout its history, Mazda has continually pursued responsive, exhilarating driving. Fully adopting the latest SKYACTIV technologies, the Mazda KOERU responds linearly to the driver’s operations, providing a true Jinba-ittai driving experience.

Impressive aerodynamic performance is achieved by a sleek body shape and optimisation of the airflow over the upper body, as well as creating a turbulence-rectifying under-floor structure. These elements also enhance vehicle stability when driving at speed. The Mazda KOERU is significantly quieter and more relaxing due to Mazda’s breakthrough NVH technology that thoroughly quells noise and vibration path. Those technologies deliver high-quality, amazingly refined driving not offered by the existing crossover vehicles on the market today.

【Main dimensions and technologies】

Length x Width x Height (mm) 4,600 × 1,900 × 1,500
Wheelbase (mm) 2,700
Seating capacity 5 persons
Tyres 265/45R21
Major systems/technologies i-ACTIVSENSE*1

Mazda Connect*2

*1  i-ACTIVSENSE is an umbrella term covering a series of advanced safety technologies, that have been developed in line with Mazda’s safety philosophy, Mazda Proactive Safety which represents Mazda’s thinking about safety, and focuses on understanding, respecting and trusting the human driver. Mazda aims to support the essential functions for safe driving, such as recognising potential hazards, exercising good judgment and operating the vehicle in an appropriate fashion. These technologies are designed to help to prevent or reduce the damage resulting from an accident despite changing driving conditions.

*2  Mazda Connect is Mazda’s new-generation car-connectivity system, developed in line with Mazda’s unique human machine interface (HMI) concept called the Heads-Up Cockpit concept. The new-generation car connectivity system was designed to support safe driving and driver concentration while the driver handles increasing amounts of information and maintains an appropriate driving posture. Mazda Connect is the name used in Japan, the US and Mexico. The system is referred to as MZD Connect in other markets.

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– By: Chris Chin

Chris Chin

Chris Chin is the Editor-In-Chief of egmCarTech and is a regular contributor to Automobile Magazine.

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