FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW: Mazda KOERU Concept debut

Just when you thought the next-generation CX-9 would complete the SKYACTIV renewal of Mazda's model range at the Los Angeles motor show in November, up pops the edgy KOERU coupe-crossover concept at today's Frankfurt show.

Almost certain to enter production – probably badged as the CX-6 – the KOERU previews an additional five-seat, five-door SUV model from Mazda that rides on the same 2700mm wheelbase as the CX-5 but is longer, wider and lower.

The KOERU could also herald the look of the second-generation CX-5, which will replace the first model to appear on Mazda's latest SKYACTIV platform when it emerges as the first SKYACTIV II model by 2017.

Although it's not quite as radical as last month's teaser sketch suggested, the sleek show car presents a dramatic new take on Mazda's KODO design language while building on the successful styling of the popular CX-5 – Australia's top-selling SUV.

As expected, Mazda's KOERU announcement is long on flourishes and short on detail, but the Japanese car-maker states it is an "all-new crossover concept proposed by Mazda".

"The Mazda KOERU demonstrates Mazda's unique and daring interpretation of a crossover vehicle, proposed for the fast-growing crossover market," it said.

"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.

"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."

Mazda has listed the dimensions of the KOERU, which means "exceed" or "go beyond" in Japanese, at 4600mm long, 1900mm wide and 1500mm high.

If it reached production with similar proportions, it will be slightly bigger, sportier and more expensive than the CX-5 – not unlike BMW's X5-based X6.

Mazda concepts have a history of reaching production, as evidenced by the Hazumi (Mazda2), Takeri (Mazda6) and Minagi (CX-5).

However, the five-seat KOERU is obviously not a preview of a born-again CX-7 – a seven-seat SUV expected to be based on the CX-5 – that Mazda Australia chief Martin Benders recently hosed down as simply a "thought bubble".

While the 21-inch wheels are unlikely to reach showrooms, the production KOERU will come with all of Mazda's latest technologies, including its connectivity (MZD Connect) and safety (i-ACTIVSENSE) systems.

New design features include a fresh take on Mazda's 'Signature Wing' grille motif, plus "LED guiding rings".

More significant, however, are new technologies like a smooth under body and "breakthrough NVH technology that thoroughly quells noise and vibration path", making the vehicle "significantly quieter and more relaxing".

"Those technologies deliver high-quality, amazingly refined driving not offered by the existing crossover vehicles on the market today," says Mazda.

Full coverage from motoring.com.au at Frankfurt motor show here