Koeru concept is an SUV for Mazda 3 shoppers

IS THIS the first Mazda CX-4? The Mazda Koeru concept has been shown at the Frankfurt motor show and potentially adds another model to the best-selling SUV line-up in Australia.

The Koeru takes Mazda’s Kodo design language a step further, with a low-roofed, athletic SUV that showcases forthcoming Mazda cues and rides on the same platform as the Mazda 3 and CX-5.

The most distinctive part of the overall look compared to the existing Mazda line-up is that tapering roofline, which sits a significant 210mm lower than the CX-5’s.

Yet Mazda chief designer Iwao Koizumi is adamant that the concept is not simply a CX-5 with tapered roofline, a la BMW’s transformation of the X5 into the X6.

Instead, the Koeru sees Mazda capitalizing on the increasing trend away from its core Mazda 3 model and into SUVs.

Moro said that the Koeru will appeal to customers that enjoy the space of the Mazda 3, want an SUV but find the CX-3 too small – and the CX-5 too conventional.

“So CX-4 or CX-6 or whatever you call it, it will be a more sporty and sophisticated execution,” Moro said.

“Of course this is a show car … the design will evolve,” said Mazda chief designer, Iwao Koizumi. “The basic dimensions will change, going towards a more realistic mass production car.”