The 64th Frankfurt Motor Show held in 2011 witnessed the unveiling of the production model of Mazda’s compact SUV – CX-5. Now it has been spied in India, while being tested on New Delhi Roads, all thanks to the Team-BHP member, who clicked the vehicle on test. CX-5 is the first one to feature Mazda’s “KODO” design theme. This was earlier seen only in the Shinari concept car. “KODO- Soul Of Motion” is a theme that features a prominent front facia and better dynamic styling. The SUV also boasts of being the first one to be built on Skyactiv Technology platform. The smaller version of CX-5, called the CX-7, will also be based on the SKYACTIV technologies.
Currently sold in Europe, US and Japan, the vehicle comes with two engine variants, one being the the 2.2-litre Skyactiv-D diesel engine and other being a 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G petrol engine. Both are mated to a Skyactiv-Drive 6-speed automatic gearbox. Options also include in terms of front engine two-wheel and 4-wheel drive layouts. The Mazda CX-5 measures 4540 mm in length, 1840 mm in width and 1705 mm in height. The compact SUV has a wheel base of 2700 mm. It was an instant hit in the European markets and its entry into Indian subcontinent has not been confirmed yet.
The Mazda CX-5 could soon see a Indian debut, but if the Japanese automaker is serious about the Indian market, it needs to locally manufacture vehicles and not take the CBU route. Setting up a plant will take time but the company can follow a top down approach to build brand awareness. The MX-5 can be brought in as a CBU and mass market vehicles can be brought in later. The Mazda CX-5 spotted did not have any badges, which were removed and masked. This clearly signifies that the company is seriously considering an Indian foray. Who knows, they could take help from their commercial vehicle partner Swaraj for a quick entry.
Spy Pictures Courtesy – Team-BHP
