Recent rumors suggesting that Mazda could be preparing an entry in the rapidly-expanding subcompact crossover segment have gained credence following comments from Seita Kanai, who next month will become the automaker’s chairman.
Asked by Australia’s Motoring about the possibility of a CUV version of the next Mazda2, Kanai stopped short of providing an official confirmation, but did reply that such a model is “well within the scope of [Mazda's product range]…it’s fully feasible.”
A utility vehicle positioned below the CX-5, which would likely be badged as the CX-3, would give Mazda a player in a segment that’s poised for significant growth both in the U.S. and worldwide. In the states, it would compete against the likes of the Honda HR-V and Chevrolet Trax.
Over the course of the interview, Kanai also revealed that Mazda has no plans to introduce a “Mazda1″ minicar that is smaller than the Mazda2.
“If you ask me ‘can Mazda be successful by entering that [micro-car] segment?’ the answer is no, because we cannot make money. In terms of models Mazda will develop we’re not considering models below Mazda2.”
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