Currently reading: Mazda to reveal new SUV at Geneva show
New machine, set to rival the Nissan Qashqai, will share design traits and powertrains with recently launched Mazda 3

Mazda will launch a new compact SUV, which will slot in above the Mazda CX-3 in its range, at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

The Japanese firm has released a single darkened teaser image of the new car’s rear, showing a relatively compact and sculpted design and round brake lights, in keeping with the latest version of Mazda’s ‘Kodo’ design language.

Mazda says the new machine will be a “brand-new” addition to its range, and forms the second model in its new-generation line-up, following the recently launched Mazda 3.

The firm already offers the Nissan Juke-rivalling Mazda CX-3 compact crossover – which shares underpinnings with the Mazda 2 – and the larger Mazda CX-5, and it is likely the new model will be a small family SUV that slots in between the two, taking on the likes of the Nissan Qashqai.

That could lead to the new model being labelled the CX-4, a nameplate currently used for a Chinese market-only coupe-SUV.

Mazda says the SUV will be built on its recently developed Skyactiv Vehicle Architecture, and that the powertrain line-up will include its latest Skyactiv-X compression ignition engine – both elements that it will share with the Mazda 3. That suggests the SUV could be a similar size and share a substantial number of its underpinnings.

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James Attwood

James Attwood, digital editor
Title: Acting magazine editor

James is Autocar's acting magazine editor. Having served in that role since June 2023, he is in charge of the day-to-day running of the world's oldest car magazine, and regularly interviews some of the biggest names in the industry to secure news and features, such as his world exclusive look into production of Volkswagen currywurst. Really.

Before first joining Autocar in 2017, James spent more than a decade in motorsport journalist, working on Autosport, autosport.com, F1 Racing and Motorsport News, covering everything from club rallying to top-level international events. He also spent 18 months running Move Electric, Haymarket's e-mobility title, where he developed knowledge of the e-bike and e-scooter markets. 

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ricequackers 5 February 2019

What about the CX-9? If they

What about the CX-9? If they insist on pushing SUVs then at least sell us Europeans the big one with plenty of space and practicality.

Oh, and Mazda, please sell the 2.5L Skyactiv engine across your model range here too. Some of us want more power without having to default to the German trio.

Marv 5 February 2019

ricequackers wrote:

ricequackers wrote:

What about the CX-9? If they insist on pushing SUVs then at least sell us Europeans the big one with plenty of space and practicality.

Oh, and Mazda, please sell the 2.5L Skyactiv engine across your model range here too. Some of us want more power without having to default to the German trio.

 

Agreed. Although it would sell in low numbers, I would like the 2.5t to be made available here too.  

Woukd also jump at the chance of a CX9 to replace our Santa Fe. 

eseaton 5 February 2019

Great news.  Except in every

Great news.  Except in every respect.

xxxx 5 February 2019

Power opts

Hopefully it'll have the option of the 2.0 165 from the CX-5 as base, the SKY-Inactive 120hp just doesn't cut it for me.   Problem is the supercharged compression ignition engine currently kicks out 180 in the Mazda 3 which is just to close for what will be a big price gap, it'll have to be up'd or be the only way to get 4wd.

If Mazda can make a quality SUV that undercuts the XC40 and Q3 it'll do well in sales.