Mazda developed the CX-60 SUV with a new rear-drive platform and an in-line 6-cylinder engine, and will launch three new SUVs in the same combination. However, the Vision Coupé concept, which appeared at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show, may have been a victim of this SUV boom. The concept car showcases a new generation of soul-stirring design aesthetics and influences models including the MX-30 electric car, the Onxella, and the CX-60. But its mass-produced version has been delayed in following up, and now it seems that the hope is even more elusive.
The Vision Coupé debuted at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show, continuing the 2015 RX Vision concept and nurturing the concept of "less is more". Mazda does not officially state that the Vision Coupé has mass production plans, but from the positioning of the car to the styling and contouring, it is reminiscent of the prototype of the next generation of Artez. It is expected to become a rival to the BMW 5 Series, using a rear-drive platform and a straight 6 engine.
Now the combination of the new rear-drive platform and the straight 6 engine has created the new CX-60 SUV, but this also means that Mazda's product strategy is inclined to expand the SUV market. Joachim Kunz, head of product development at Mazda in Europe, previously said that the SUV boom continues to burn, especially for Mazda, and sales need to rely on the strong support of SUVs.
Kunz further revealed: "The next generation of Artez or a large coupe can use front-engine rear-wheel drive with a 6-cylinder engine, of course, we want to do that, but at this point in time, selling SUVs is more important." The remarks also put a question mark on the timing of the overhaul atez.
Now, in addition to the CX-60, the rear-drive platform and the 6-cylinder engine combination have been basically determined to launch a new car that will be launched, that is, the extended range version of the MX-30 with a rotor engine, and the 7-seater version of the CX-60, the CX-80. In addition, the CX-70 and CX-90 are also in the pipeline. In other words, Mazda's new generation of SUV legions is gaining momentum, and other less important car series can only give way for the time being.