Mazda3-based crossover is being considered – report

2011_Mazda_Minagi_Concept

Rumours surrounding the new Mazda3 just keep on coming. Just yesterday we reported that the next MPS could take the all-wheel drive route, and now it seems that AWD will play a more integral role in the lineup. The latest word is that an SUV or crossover version of the hatchback is being considered for production.

If Australia’s Drive report proves accurate, the new model could fit in nicely between the standard five-door Mazda3 and the high-riding CX-5 SUV (a sketch of the Minagi concept from 2011 that previewed the latter is pictured above). Nothing has been confirmed just yet though, so don’t get excited yet.

A simple formula of pairing a raised ride height with offroad-style visual add-ons has been suggested, much in line with the close relationship between the Subaru XV crossover and the Impreza hatchback it’s heavily based on. As for the drivetrain, the Mazda3 is already available with optional all-wheel drive in Japan.

Over to you, then. Would you want a high-riding Mazda3 with go-anywhere looks, possibly badged as the CX-3? Voice your opinions below.

2014 Mazda3 hatchback


2013 Mazda CX-5

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Hafriz Shah

Preferring to drive cars rather than desks, Hafriz Shah ditched his suit and tie to join the ranks of Malaysia’s motoring hacks. A car’s technical brilliance is completely lost on him, appreciating character-making quirks more. When not writing this ego trip of a bio, he’s usually off driving about aimlessly, preferably in a car with the right combination of three foot pedals and six gears.

 

Comments

  • [looks at the sketch]
    What is there to consider? built it!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 0
  • Love to see which one is nicer.. jack-up impreza (xv) or this jack-up 3?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • Lpost on Oct 17, 2013 at 4:34 pm

    Great!!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Sky pirate on Oct 17, 2013 at 5:01 pm

    I thought the CX-5 already rides on the same platform as the Mazda 3? Did you mean something like the Volvo V40 and V40 cross country?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 1
    • CX5 is a new platform developed under the Skyactiv program,the New Mazda 3 will used a modified version of the CX-5 platform,which in turn might be used on the CX-3

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Akira on Oct 17, 2013 at 5:50 pm

    Yes please…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Anyhw dont make smthng like x6.. mybe like downsize cx9 bt with abit rework.. i thnk that wd b nice..

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 3
  • Subaru XV
    Volvo V40 Cross Country
    Mazda CX-3

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 0
  • Nikita on Oct 18, 2013 at 8:42 pm

    come on… develop it Mazda is the best of ever in Japanese car industry in terms of the design and popularity of all the youngsters nowdays. Great to see the new Mazda3 or the CX-5 new facelift. I believe that Mazda are most welcome in Malaysia in next 3-5 years. You are the champion in our heart. Love you Mazda, please bring in the new Mazda3 can’t wait to drive you on the road. Bermaz kindly consider to get the road machine soonest to our shores don’t delay…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
 

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