Mazda targets SUV buyers

Mazda will turn its not inconsiderable product development and marketing talents towards the SUV segment in 2006 in an effort to continue record growth.

With hot product in the small, medium and sportscar segments, Mazda has more than doubled its volume in Australia in the last five years. In 2005 it posted record sales (65,520) and was the top full-line importer. It finished the year in overall fourth place behind Toyota, Holden and Ford.

According to local chief Doug Dickson the best opportunity for continued growth for Mazda exists in the SUV marketplace -- specifically in the burgeoning crossover segment, or so-called softroaders.

While immediate duties will be filled by a revised and restyled version of the Tribute (see below), the vehicle which Mazda will call upon to play the leading role debuted at Melbourne Motor Show last week. Well, sort of...

Taking pride of place on the Mazda stand was the Mazda MX CrossSport concept vehicle. The precursor for the CX-7 production SUV that will debut Down Under in Novmber 2006, the CrossSport was introduced to local media by Mazda design chief, Moray Callum.

First seen at Detroit last year, the MX CrossSport gives more than a sneak peak at the CX-7 production car. True to the concept, the production vehicle is not quite as 'pumped up' and the concept and features simpler surfaces and front and rear light treatments.

Powered by a re-engineered version of the turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder DISI petrol engine athat graces the Mazda 6 MPS, the Japanese-built CX-7 will enter the market under $50,000. Australia will be the first market outside of North American to get the new wagon after its arrival was brought forward four months. We will be the first right-hand drive market to receive the new vehicle.

In CX-7 guise the engine will produce 170kW with peak torque of 350NM delivered at 2500rpm.

Unlike the 6 MPS, the CX-7 features an automatic transmission. The six-speed Activematic is mated to Mazda's Active Torque Split all-wheel drive system. Braking is via four-wheel discs and ABS, traction control and Dynamic stability Control are all standard fitment.

Like the concept, the CX-7 rolls on beefy alloys -- 18-inch, however, rather than the MX's 20s.

The CX-7's interior also draws on the MX CrossSport. A two-tiered dash delivers three information zones, for driver, passenger and entertainment, and trim, fit and finish is class-leading claims Mazda. Special attention has been paid to materials quality and aspects such as touch points and soft-trim graining says the carmaker.

Cheekily dubbed 'Zoom Zoom with room' the CX-7 is a five-seater though luggage space is generous (in litre terms) and thanks to the relatively high waistline should also be versatile.

Two trim levels will be offered. Expect a 'Luxury' version priced around the luxury car sales tax threshold, in addition to the $49,990 'entry-level' CX-7.

Also unveiled at Melbourne and making its global debut was a revised version of the Tribute. Featuring new bodywork front and rear and a revised interior, the Tribute will go on sale mid-year and is expected to be priced the same (or indeed below) the current iteration.

The major change to the interior is the relocation of the gearshift from the steering column to a conventional centre console. The new dash has hints of Mazda 6 DNA.

Mazda has promised significantly improved economy from the 152kW V6 model.