► Mazda Koeru nearers production
► Could this be a CX-4?
► Engine line-up would mirror CX-5
1) On a roll – following success with the CX-3 and CX-5, Mazda is clearly considering another crossover SUV. The Koeru concept points the way. Koeru means ‘go beyond’ in Japanese, and the sleek roofline suggests Mazda wants a piece of the BMW X4’s action.
2) Close to production – is it really just a concept? Okay, so those 21in wheels are a bit much, but the surfacing is feasible and the interior looks fundamentally ready. No wonder spy shots of Koeru testing in China have started appearing already.
3) What’s in a name? – Mazda is fond of fancy titles for its concepts but sticks to letters and numbers from the factory. So could the Koeru become the CX-4? Word is that it’s based on the CX-5 platform, but ‘CX-5 Coupe’ doesn’t fit the pattern.
4) Going beyond – engine line-up would likely mirror the CX-5’s Skyactiv selection (148bhp diesel to 163bhp petrol in the UK); 2wd and 4wd, manual and auto are a safe bet. Expected to go on sale in China first, with global release in late 2016.