Combining the athleticism of the RX-8 with the practicality of an SUV, the Mazda MX-Crossport explores a new direction in the Japanese company’s quest for fresh and exciting products.

Combining the athleticism of the RX-8 with the practicality of an SUV, the Mazda MX-Crossport explores a new direction in the Japanese company’s quest for fresh and exciting products.

To be unveiled for the first time in Detroit, at just over 4,6 metres long the Crossport is relatively compact. However, short overhangs, a relatively long wheelbase and a modular interior layout, ensure that there is lots of space available when needed.

Designed at Mazda’s main design studio in Hiroshima, Japan, the vehicle is, according to Mazda, a “new style crossover”.

“It transcends vehicles like SUVs or sedans,” chief designer Iwao Koizumi insisted. "Our goal was to design a crossover that transcends the existing categories of SUV and crossovers and steps into the realm of sports car.

“It is the ultimate style and shape of something that moves, it gives a feeling of motion,” Koizumi, who was also responsible for the Mazda6, added.

With its aggressive-looking, low-slung body, the Crossport contains several RX-8 design features while a glass roof covers the top. For those fond of their toys, a flip-down screen on the inside acts as an entertainment system monitor, displays images of the instrument panel gauges and even provides views out of the front via a front-mounted camera!

Original article from Car