Ciprian Florea wrote:Mazda dropped a series of new teaser images for the upcoming CX-4 and confirmed once again the model will be unveiled later this month at the 2016 Beijing Motor Show.
Exterior
Not surprisingly, Mazda’s teasers confirm that the prototype spotted in Asia in 2015 was a production-ready as they get. The CX-4 features the same KODO-styled front end with the massive, shield-shaped grille and sculpted engine hood. It also sports the Koeru’s grille frame that extends into the headlamps, a design feature not available on other Mazda vehicles. However, the model showcased by the company has blacked-out chrome instead of the usual shiny trim, which gives the crossover a sportier appearance. This is probably a higher trim model so expect to see the standard chrome work on the less expensive versions.
The apron, on the other hand, is quite different than the Koeru’s, which had a slim air intake and sporty splitter-like element, and it appears to be unfinished.
Around back, the CX-4 received most of the Koeru’s features, but Mazda reworked them into more production-friendly designs. The taillights are larger, and the chrome strip between them is thicker, while the exhaust pipes are no longer integrated into the bumper and pop out closer to the ground. Likewise, the lower tailgate has a smoother design, the windscreen is taller, and the bumper has a more utilitarian appearance.
Surprisingly enough, the Koeru’s sporty profile was transferred nearly unaltered onto the CX-4. Sure, the roof sits higher, the door handles have a standard design, and the wheels aren’t as fancy as the concept’s, but the coupe-like design and the blacked-out B- and C-pillars are still there. Nice work, Mazda!
Interior
Mazda gave us a good look at the CX-4’s interior and it seems that nothing changed compared to the prototype we saw in 2015. Not surprisingly, the CX-4’s cabin isn’t as fancy as the Koeru’s, but more in line with what we already saw in the CX-5. The center stack layout is pretty much the same, with an infotainment screen above the rectangular A/C vents and all the knobs and buttons below. However, the touchscreen is a free-standing type unit, whereas the CX-5 has it integrated into the center stack.
The center console and the steering wheel seem to be almost identical to the CX-5. The teaser photos suggests the CX-4 will come with plenty of premium features on the inside, including aluminum inserts, leather, contrast stitching, and a good overall fit-and-finish. The steering wheel appears to have carbon-fiber inserts, which would be a cool feature for this segment and price range.
Naturally, the coupe configuration will make the CX-4 less roomier than the CX-5. However, the production model won’t be as cramped in the rear as the Koeru concept thanks to its taller glass house. Also, the bigger rear windscreen should provide improved visibility.
Drivetrain
There’s no word as to what might motivate the upcoming CX-4, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see this crossover hit dealerships with the exact same engines as the CX-5. The latter comes with a 2.0-liter SkyActiv unit rated at 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque in entry-level guise and a more powerful 2.5-liter SkyActiv with 184 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of twist in range-topping trim. Certain markets should also get the 2.2-liter diesel with 147 horsepower and 280 pound-feet or 173 horses and 310 pound-feet. Transmission choices should include a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic.
John Halas wrote:The CX-4 will be available in China with two gasoline engines, a 156hp 2.0-liter four, and a 189hp 2.5-liter four paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission and Mazda’s ‘Intelligent All-Wheel Drive’ system.
